Cordyceps Mushroom Benefits

Cordyceps is the most stunning functional fungi, and we mean in every aspect. From its appearance to how it grows.

It’s a parasitic fungus that grows on the larvae of insects. It replaces its host's tissue and sprouts long, slender stems that extend outside the host's body. But the wonders of Cordyceps mushroom don’t end here. Over 400 types of Cordyceps mushrooms have been identified, most of which are from Asia. But two stand out and have attracted the attention of researchers. These are Cordyceps Militaris and Cordyceps Sinensis.

Getting to Know Cordyceps Mushrooms

Cordyceps mushrooms are functional mushrooms that provide low-calorie nutrition and a plethora of wellness and therapeutic benefits. The mushrooms contain amino acids, vitamins and minerals. They also contain cordycepin and other important bioactive compounds. They are also rich in prebiotic fibre, which plays multiple roles in aiding gut health and functions. 

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The name Cordyceps comes from Latin, meaning “club head”, to describe the appearance of the heads of the mushroom spindles. Besides Cordyceps, the mushroom also goes by many other names depending on where you reside. These include caterpillar fungus, Tochukas, Dong Chong Xia Cao, Yarza Gunbu, Yarsa Gumba, Champignon Chenille, and vegetable caterpillar, among others.

Cordyceps mushrooms have gained notoriety for their ability to boost athletic and physical performance and are commonly used by athletes. But this is not their only benefit.

Research surrounding Cordyceps mushrooms is still ongoing. But there’s a lot of potential for the therapeutic and wellness benefits of the mushroom. The benefits may vary depending on which of the two mushrooms you use. Here are some of them;

Improved physical performance

Cordyceps are thought to increase the body's production of the adenosine triphosphate molecule, improving energy delivery to the muscles.

This may also improve the body’s use of oxygen during exercise. The mushrooms also help support cardiac function and respiratory health. This benefit has been extensively researched. One study reported that a 28-day trial of Cordyceps administered during high-intensity exercise showed benefits in anaerobic and aerobic performance and improved oxygen consumption and blood lactate levels.

By enhancing the body's oxygen uptake, the mushrooms also increase the Max V02 and time to exertion, among other sports performance parameters. Ultimately, the athlete may have improved overall endurance and recovery.

Cordyceps does more than enhance physical performance. The mushrooms also aid in post-workout recovery. Studies have shown that Cordyceps can enhance blood flow to the liver, and non-exercising skeletal muscle may also aid in clearing lactate, allowing athletes to maintain a higher intensity of exercise without fatigue.

Anti-ageing properties

Anti-ageing properties are common among functional mushrooms, but Cordyceps set a new standard. The elderly have traditionally used Cordyceps to reduce fatigue and boost strength and sex drive.

Cordyceps have a rich antioxidant content that researchers believe explains their anti-ageing potential. The antioxidants help fight cell damage by neutralizing free radicals contributing to disease and ageing.

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Several studies done on mice have shown that Cordyceps may improve brain function and anti-oxidative enzyme activity in mice and promote sexual function in castrated rates. These studies show that Cordyceps may have an anti-ageing effect. Although these studies are yet to be carried out on humans, they show the potential of Cordyceps in turning back the hands of time or at least slowing them down.

Potential anti-tumour effects

Cancer cases have been on the rise. Although the exact cause of the condition has yet to be identified, experts believe there are elements that can reduce the chances of suffering from certain types of cancer, and functional mushrooms contain some of these elements.

Cordyceps, in particular, have shown the potential to slow the growth of tumours and have generated massive interest in recent years.

Some of the types of cancers that experts believe Cordyceps may be effective for include colon, lung, skin and liver cancers. Some studies have also shown that Cordyceps may have anti-tumour effects on lymphoma, melanoma and lung cancer.

The mushrooms may also help patients deal with the effects of some types of cancer therapy, like leukopenia, which takes us to the next benefit.

Support immune functions

Cancer treatments like radiotherapy can compromise the immune system causing a condition called leukopenia. Similar to other functional mushrooms, Cordyceps is thought to support the body’s healthy immune functioning. The mushrooms have a polysaccharide content that supports gut health and helps to modulate the immune system.

Cordyceps are an adaptogenic mushroom that helps the body react appropriately when challenged by balancing response and inflammation.

It may help fight inflammation

Cordyceps are thought to help fight inflammation in the body. Sometimes, the inflammation is a result of the body fighting an infection. But too much inflammation can lead to life-threatening diseases like heart disease and cancer. 

Cordyceps mushrooms are thought to have special proteins that suppress inflammation in the body. These proteins and elements serve as anti-inflammatories.

Research conducted on mice has shown Cordyceps mushrooms can reduce inflammation in the airways of mice, making them a potential therapy for asthma. The mushrooms may also have topical applications and can reduce skin inflammation when applied topically in mice.

You can experience these and other benefits associated with Cordyceps mushrooms by adding them to your daily supplement routine. With our range of Cordyceps mushroom supplements, you shouldn’t have any problems keeping up with your daily Cordyceps intake. Whether you’re looking for sustained energy in your daily activities, boosting your sex drive or simply maintaining a healthy routine, adding Cordyceps mushrooms to your routine could bring you closer to your goal.