Cordyceps Mushroom
Cordyceps (cordyceps sinensis) is a genus of parasitic fungi that grow on insects and other arthropods. It is a unique fungus in that it grows both underground and above ground. The underground portion of the fungus is a long, thin stalk that penetrates the host insect. The above ground portion is a fruiting body that releases spores of spores that spread to infect other insects. Cordyceps is a legendary natural medicine found in parts of Asia, which folklore claims is neither plant nor animal, and which is worth far more than its weight in gold.
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Cordyceps has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for hundreds of years and is valued for its supposed health benefits. It is believed to increase energy, endurance, and stamina, as well as improve respiratory and cardiovascular function. Cordyceps is also thought to have potential in treating kidney disease, impotence, and other health conditions.
History
It was discovered about 2000 years ago as an exotic medicinal mushroom described in traditional Chinese and Tibetan medicine. Cordyceps has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for hundreds of years, primarily in the Himalayan regions of China, Tibet, and Nepal. The regular harvesting period stretches from April to August. It grows only at the high-altitude regions of about 3800 meters above sea level in the cold, grassy, alpine meadows of the mountain Himalaya. The use of Cordyceps as a medicinal mushroom dates back to at least the 15th century in China, where it was valued for its supposed ability to increase energy, stamina, and endurance. Cordyceps is a mushroom that grows out of the head of a mummified caterpillar, which is then collected by Tribesmen in the remote Himalayas. It is then sold in markets around the world for as much as $75,000 per kilo.
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​Cordyceps became more widely known in the West in the 1990s, after several Chinese athletes broke world records in endurance events and attributed their success to Cordyceps supplements. Since then, Cordyceps has gained popularity as a dietary supplement, and its use has spread globally.
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In recent years, Cordyceps has been the subject of increasing scientific research, and its potential health benefits are being explored in a number of areas, including its effects on energy, endurance, and athletic performance, as well as its potential in treating respiratory disorders, kidney disease, and impotence.
Compounds
Cordyceps mushroom contains a variety of bioactive compounds, including:
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Polysaccharides: These are complex carbohydrates that have been found to stimulate the immune system and have anti-tumor properties.
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Cordycepin: This is a nucleoside compound that has been found to have anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, and anti-viral properties.
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Ergosterol: This is a precursor of vitamin D that has been found to have immune-modulating effects and may help regulate cholesterol levels.
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Adenosine: This is a nucleoside compound that has been found to have anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, and cardiovascular protective properties.
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Cordyceps mushroom also contains various vitamins and minerals, including vitamin D, potassium, and zinc. However, the amounts of these nutrients are relatively small and may not have a significant impact on overall nutrition.
Health Benefits
Cordyceps is believed to have a number of potential health benefits, although more research is needed to fully understand its effects on human health. Some of the most commonly claimed health benefits of Cordyceps include:
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Boosts libido: Cordyceps has shown to improve physical vitality and stamina in general. It also helps dilate blood vessels and increase blood flow, which is undoubtedly an essential factor of erectile function. Furthermore, two studies have shown Cordyceps to "significantly increase" the production of testosterone in males. Male and female sexual dysfunction, including pain disorders and lack of arousal, desire or orgasm, have long been treated with Cordyceps in traditional Chinese medicine.
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Improved respiratory function: Cordyceps may help improve respiratory function by reducing inflammation in the lungs and improving the body's oxygen uptake. Helps with Asthma, bronchial discomfort, and shortness of breath.
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Kidney and Liver support: Cordyceps has been shown to have a beneficial effect on kidney and liver function and may help protect the kidneys and liver from damage.
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Immune system support: Cordyceps may have immune-boosting effects and may help improve the body's ability to fight off infections and disease.
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Anti-inflammatory effects: Cordyceps may have anti-inflammatory effects, which may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes.
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Increased energy and endurance: Cordyceps is believed to boost energy levels and improve athletic performance by increasing oxygen uptake and enhancing the body's energy metabolism.
Culinary Uses
Cordyceps mushrooms are edible and have a savoury, umami flavor and an earthy, nutty taste similar to that of chestnut mushrooms. They are used in a variety of traditional dishes in countries such as China, Tibet, and Nepal, where they are valued for their medicinal properties as well as their taste. Cordyceps can be added to just about any drink or meal because it blends easily and the taste is virtually undetectable.
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Cordyceps can be added to soups, stews, and broths to add flavor and nutrition. They can also be stir-fried with vegetables or added to sauces and marinades. Some people also add Cordyceps to tea, coffee, smoothies and desserts for a health boost.
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It's important to note that Cordyceps can be expensive and difficult to find in some regions, so it's typically used in smaller quantities as a flavor enhancer or for its health benefits. Additionally, Cordyceps can interact with other medications, so individuals taking prescription drugs should consult with their healthcare provider before consuming Cordyceps as a food.