Cordyceps

Researchers have identified more than 400 species of Cordyceps. It is now one of the most highly priced mushrooms and is regularly consumed for its medicinal value.

Cordyceps generally attacks larvae of various insects and then grows around its body, therefore forming its typical elongated shape. Its use is especially popular in traditional Chinese medicine.¹

In recent years it has received massive attention from modern researchers. They have identified numerous beneficial compounds contained in the mushroom. It is rich in cordycepin and its derivatives (polysaccharides, ergosterol and glycoproteins). Therefore, it has wide-ranging health benefits.²

Due to over-harvesting, finding Cordyceps in nature is challenging, and therefore it is now one of the most expensive mushrooms to purchase. In addition, cultivating this mushroom is quite difficult. Some Cordyceps supplements may contain other additives or fillers for cost-savings. Therefore, it Is suggested that you should read the product label carefully before buying any Cordyceps product.

Health Benefits of Cordyceps

Below are some of the well-known health benefits of Cordyceps:

Anti Aging

Cordyceps is believed to prolong age and help fight ailments. This may be due to its antioxidant action and immunomodulatory ability. It also appears to promote sexual function. Cordyceps is often regarded as a potent adaptogen. It is also suitable for brain health, helping enhance learning abilities and memory.³^,⁴
Anti-Cancer

Cordyceps is generally believed to prevent cancer, kill tumours, and prevent metastasis. Terminally ill patients frequently use Cordyceps in the hope of prolonging life. There is research indicating that polysaccharides in the mushroom are known to suppress the growth of cancer cells. It seems that Cordycepin may help prevent metastasis. Researchers have identified numerous ways in which it may help, including its role in stimulating immunity.⁵^,⁶
Helps Manage Diabetes

Cordyceps appears to reduce blood glucose levels and reduce total cholesterol levels. It may also enhance insulin sensitivity. Additionally, it may help reduce the risk of various diabetes-related complications due to its antioxidant capacity. It is particularly good for those living with type 2 diabetes.⁷
Heart Health

Consumption of Cordyceps may help with heart health in multiple ways. It reduces insulin resistance, cholesterol and may even help normalise the regularity of the heartbeat. In addition, it may lower inflammation and has antioxidant action.^⁸
Lowers Inflammation

It appears that Cordyceps may help control low-grade inflammation. This may be especially useful in countering the ill effects of metabolic syndrome. Therefore, it may exert neuroprotective and cardioprotective action.^⁹
Boost Physical Performance

Cordyceps may be especially good for improving endurance and may help alleviate post-workout fatigue. Studies show that it may be especially useful used as a supplement in extreme sports. In addition, it may help prevent high altitude sickness.¹⁰
Sexual Health

Cordyceps may also boost reproductive health in both sexes. It increases the production of Nitric Oxide and therefore may help improve erection quality. Additionally, it also has anti-fatigue activity.^⁸

Side Effects of Cordyceps

There are no known side effects of Cordyceps due to a lack of studies. However, one should be careful when buying Cordyceps supplements as very few of them contain genuine mushroom extract. It is because real Cordyceps in it’s pure and natural form is extremely expensive with one kilogram costing more than USD$20,000.¹¹

Properties

Adaptogen²
Anti-Aging³^,⁴
Anti-Inflammatory⁹
Antioxidant³^,⁴
Asthma⁹
Brain Function / Neuroprotective³^,⁴
Breathing Difficulties⁹
Cancer Prevention⁵^,⁶
Cardiovascular Support⁸
Cholesterol⁸
Concentration³^,⁴
Cough⁹
Dementia Prevention³^,⁴
Diabetes / Blood Sugar⁷
Energiser²
Fatigue²
Hormonal Balance²^, 10
Immune Booster²^, 10
Libido & Sexual Performance⁸
Liver Health²
Memory Retention²
Stamina Support¹⁰

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