Cordyceps are a type of mushroom that has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for over 2,000 years. Chinese medicine practitioners use cordyceps for a number of conditions, including fatigue and weakness, which is why it is so popular. It is also used for immune system strengthening and wound healing.
What are Cordyceps?
Cordyceps are a type of fungus that grows on several types of grasses and is used in Chinese medicine. It is also known as caterpillar fungus due to its caterpillar-like shape. The stalk of the mushroom is what is traditionally used for medicinal purposes because it contains several medicinal compounds, including Cordycepin, Cordycebin, and Cordyolides.
The medicinal compounds found in cordyceps are one of its most promising features. Cordyceps is an adaptogen, meaning that it helps the body to adapt to stress. Adaptogens are very helpful for conditions that make the body’s cells more sensitive, such as stress, fatigue, and weak immune function. They help the body to stay balanced and calm, which can help the individual feel better and recover more quickly.
Cordyceps are also anti-inflammatory, which means it reduces pain and inflammation. Not only does it help to reduce pain and inflammation, but it also has many other benefits, including increased strength, better cardiovascular health, anti-aging, improved sleep, and even lowered blood sugar.
Notably, during the 1993 Olympics, several Chinese athletes broke records on the female running team, and aroused suspicions that they may have used performance enhancing drugs. Their coach revealed that they had been taking cordyceps to improve respiratory function, and the mushroom entered the public consciousness.
How to Use Cordyceps Mushrooms
There are a few ways to use cordyceps mushrooms. You can take it as a dietary supplement, make cordyceps tea, or take cordyceps capsules. The most common way people take cordyceps is as a dietary supplement.
You can also make cordyceps tea. You can add 20 grams of cordyceps to boiling water and let it steep for 10-15 minutes. You can drink it as is, or add honey to sweeten it.
There are many different brands of cordyceps mushroom supplements and tea that you can purchase online or in stores. Some even come with free trial coupons, so you can try them out before buying a full bottle.
Cordyceps Mushroom Benefits
There are many benefits to using cordyceps mushrooms, including increased strength, better cardiovascular health, anti-aging, improved sleep, and even lowered blood sugar. Let’s look at these benefits in more detail.
Increased Strength - Cordyceps are known for increasing strength. It can help with weakness, fatigue, and pain. It can even help with building muscle mass if taken properly.
Cardiovascular Health - Cordyceps are known for its ability to improve cardiovascular health. It can help reduce high blood pressure, high blood sugar, cholesterol, and triglycerides. It has also been shown to improve blood flow and oxygen delivery.
Anti-aging - Cordyceps are a very promising anti-aging supplement. It can help with many aspects of aging, including supporting increased strength. It can also help improve sleep and reduce stress.
Improved Sleep - One of the best benefits of cordyceps is that it can also help improve sleep and reduce stress. Not only is this helpful for your day-to-day life, but it can also help with recovery after intense workouts.
Lower Blood Sugar - Cordyceps, as well as most adaptogens, can help lower blood sugar levels. This can be helpful for people with diabetes or otherwise dealing with high blood sugar.
Should You Use Cordyceps Mushrooms?
Cordyceps are safe for healthy adults to take. It is recommended that you speak to a doctor first before taking it, especially if you have any medical conditions. Some people may experience side effects from taking cordyceps, especially if you are sensitive to caffeine or other stimulants. This can be a sign that you are sensitive and should avoid it. Although cordyceps are very safe, they are not completely free of side effects. It can cause stomach discomfort and headaches, so it’s best to take it with food and drink something strong-flavored. Lastly, cordyceps are only effective when taken consistently. You should take it regularly, at the same time everyday, for maximum benefits.
Conclusion
Cordyceps mushrooms are a type of fungus that has been used in Eastern medicine for over 2,000 years. It can be used as a dietary supplement or made into a tea, and it is known for many benefits, including increased strength, better cardiovascular health, anti-aging, improved sleep, and even lowered blood sugar. It is safe for healthy adults to use, although it has been known to cause stomach discomfort and headaches. More research is needed to understand this wonderful fungus, but its reputation as a supplement to help increase energy is well earned.
