(cordyceps spp.)
Cordyceps is a type of mushroom that originates in the mountains of Tibe, Nepal and China. There are over 10 species of cordyceps in addition to hybrids which are cultivated. The most commonly used is C.sinensis.
In ancient China, cordyceps was used in the Emperor’s palace and was considered to have ginseng-like properties. It was used to strengthen the body after exhaustion or long-term illness, and for impotence, neurasthenia, and backache. It was also used to cure opium addiction.
What it does
Cordyceps contains a wide range of active ingredients whichinclud polysaccharides, cordycepic acid, ophiocordin, cordycepin, cordypyridones, alkenoic acids, bioxanthracenes, sterol, nucleosides and exo-polymers.
Ophiocordin is known to have anti-biotice properties and the polysaccharides are immune boosting and anti-tumour. Cordyceps helps to produce ATP which is needed for energy production and regulate blood sugar levels.
Cordyceps is said to be antioxidant, tonic, aphrodisiac, adaptogenic, mental stimulant, heart and lung tonic and supportive to the liver and kidneys.
Potential Uses
| Blood sugar regulation | Boosting energy & endurance | Tired all the time |
| Hepatitis B | Heart health | Immune support |
| Liver & kidney detox | Reducing exercise fatigue |
Cordyceps is a genus of parasitic fungi that grows on the larvae of insects. It has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries, and its popularity has grown in recent years due to its many health benefits.
Benefits of Cordyceps
Cordyceps is a good source of antioxidants and other compounds that have been shown to have a variety of health benefits, including:
- Boosted immune system: Cordyceps can help to increase the production of white blood cells, which are essential for fighting infection.
- Improved athletic performance: Cordyceps can help to increase energy levels and improve endurance.
- Reduced inflammation: Cordyceps has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce inflammation throughout the body.
- Protected against cancer: Cordyceps has been shown to have anti-cancer properties that can help to protect against the development of cancer.
- Improved heart health: Cordyceps can help to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, which can reduce the risk of heart disease.
- Lower blood sugar levels: Cordyceps can help to improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood sugar levels, which can be beneficial for people with diabetes.
- Reduced stress and anxiety: Cordyceps has adaptogenic properties, which means that it can help to reduce stress and anxiety.
- Improved sleep quality: Cordyceps can help to improve sleep quality by promoting relaxation and reducing stress.
How Cordyceps is Used in Medicine
Cordyceps is used in medicine to treat and prevent a variety of conditions, including:
- Respiratory infections
- Fatigue
- Athletic performance problems
- Inflammation
- Immune system problems
- Cancer
- Heart disease
- Diabetes
- Stress and anxiety
- Sleep problems
Examples of Cordyceps Medicines
There are a number of different cordyceps medicines available on the market. Some popular brands include:
- Cordyceps Extract
- Cordyceps Powder
- Cordyceps Capsules
- Cordyceps Tincture
Natural Remedies Using Cordyceps
Here are a few helpful recipes for using cordyceps at home:
- Cordyceps Tea: Steep 1 teaspoon of dried cordyceps mushroom powder in a cup of hot water for 10 minutes. Strain the tea and drink it warm.
- Cordyceps Soup: Sauté an onion and some garlic in a pot. Add 1 cup of chopped cordyceps mushrooms and 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes. Blend the soup until smooth and serve hot.
- Cordyceps Smoothie: Add 1 cup of cordyceps mushrooms, 1 banana, 1 tablespoon of yogurt, and 1/2 cup of milk to a blender. Blend until smooth and enjoy!
Conclusion
Cordyceps is a powerful fungus with a wide range of health benefits. It is a safe and effective way to boost the immune system, improve athletic performance, reduce inflammation, protect against cancer, improve heart health, lower blood sugar levels, reduce stress and anxiety, and improve sleep quality.
If you are considering using cordyceps, be sure to talk to your doctor first. Cordyceps may interact with certain medications, so it is important to make sure that it is safe for you to take.
Other information
Cordyceps came to popular attention after Chinese athletes who used it, broke 9 world records at the World Track and Field Championships in 1993. It is now very popular with professional athletes as is enhances energy and stamin, balances heart rate and increases oxygen uptake in the lungs. It also helps produce antioxidants which protect against exercise fatigue.
Athletes usually take 2 – 4 grams daily, for specific ailments doses of between 2 and 10grams can be taken twice daily. The energy boosting effects of cordyceps may be boosted when it is taken with ginseng or astragalus.
Cautions
Do not use in pregnancy or when breastfeeding.
May cause a dry mouth or nausea.
If you are taking MAOI anti-depressants, consult your doctor before taking cordyceps.
If you take anti-coagulant medication (warfarin, heparin), consult your doctor before taking cordyceps.
At the time of writing there were no well known negative drug interactions with cordyceps.
