Cordyceps is a medicinal mushroom and superfood that has been used in Chinese medicine for centuries. It is often referred to as the “insect fungus” because it typically grows on and feeds on caterpillars. However, the mushroom also has many health benefits and is increasingly used in the western world as a dietary supplement. In this article, we will take a closer look at the cordyceps mushroom and its health benefits.
Occurrence of the Cordyceps fungus
Cordyceps is found in mountainous regions of Tibet, Nepal and Bhutan where it grows on caterpillars. There are also cultivated forms of Cordyceps that are made from fungal spores. These cultivated forms are typically found in Asia and North America. The Cordyceps mushroom has been used in Chinese medicine for centuries and is considered one of the most valuable medicinal mushrooms.
Health Benefits of Cordyceps Mushroom
Cordyceps is known for its health benefits and is often referred to as a superfood. Here are some of the key benefits of the mushroom:
- Immune system support: Cordyceps has immunomodulating properties and can boost the immune system.
- Improving athletic performance: Studies have shown that Cordyceps can improve endurance and oxygen uptake, leading to better athletic performance.
- Lowering blood sugar levels: Cordyceps can lower blood sugar levels, making it beneficial for people with diabetes.
- Improving respiratory health: Cordyceps may help open the airways and improve lung function.
- Supporting kidney function: Cordyceps can support kidney function and prevent the formation of kidney stones.
Scientific Studies on the Cordyceps Fungus
Cordyceps has long been a staple of Chinese medicine and has gained popularity in the western world in recent years. Many scientific studies have examined and confirmed the health benefits of the Cordyceps mushroom.
A 2010 study* found that cordyceps may improve endurance and oxygen uptake in humans. The study looked at 20 older adults who took cordyceps extract over a 12-week period. Participants showed significant improvement in endurance and oxygen uptake.
Another study from 2016* showed that cordyceps can lower blood sugar levels. The study looked at 95 people with type 2 diabetes who took cordyceps extract over a 12-week period. The participants showed a significant reduction in fasting blood glucose levels. There are studies that indicate that cordyceps may be helpful in treating asthma and other respiratory conditions. A 1998 study* found that cordyceps extract can dilate the airways and improve lung function. Another study from 2005* showed that cordyceps extract can reduce inflammation in the airways.
How Difficult Is The Cordyceps Mushroom To Cultivate Itself?
Cordyceps is a parasitic fungus that mainly grows on caterpillars. Cordyceps is difficult to find and harvest in nature, making the fungus one of the most expensive natural remedies. However, in modern agriculture, Cordyceps is cultivated in a way that allows the fungus to be produced in large quantities and at a more affordable price. However, cultivating cordyceps is a laborious process and requires careful control of humidity, temperature, and air quality. Cultivation of the fungus requires special culture media to support growth. For these reasons, the cultivation of cordyceps is a demanding process that is carried out by experienced mushroom growers.
What is the best way to prepare Cordyceps Mushroom?
Cordyceps is a versatile mushroom and can be prepared in a variety of ways. Here are some popular preparation methods:
- Tea: Cordyceps can be prepared as a tea. To do this, pour boiling water over the dried mushroom and leave for a few minutes. The tea has a mild, earthy flavor and can be sweetened with honey or lemon juice.
- Capsules: Cordyceps is also available in supplement form that can be taken in capsule or tablet form. This is an easy way to incorporate the benefits of cordyceps into your daily diet.
- Smoothies: Cordyceps can also be used in smoothies and juices. Simply add a small amount of the dried mushroom to the blender and blend it with other ingredients like fruits, vegetables, and dairy.
- Cooking: Cordyceps can be used in soups, stews, and other dishes. The mushroom has a mild flavor that pairs well with other flavors.
Conclusion
In summary, the cordyceps mushroom is getting more and more attention due to its numerous health benefits and its use as a medicinal mushroom and superfood. Scientific studies have shown that the mushroom can help with various health problems, such as improving lung function, supporting the immune system or fighting inflammation.
Cordyceps mushroom cultivation is very demanding and requires special conditions and knowledge to be successful. It is therefore advisable to obtain the mushroom from certified dealers or to use finished products.
When it comes to preparing the cordyceps mushroom, there are many ways to incorporate the mushroom into your diet. Popular options include capsules, powder, or tea. However, it is important to stick to the recommended dosage and to consult a doctor or nutritionist if you have any questions or concerns. Overall, the cordyceps mushroom offers a promising alternative for health support and can be a valuable addition to the diet when used properly.
If you would like to find out more about other medicinal mushrooms, read the following article.
Studies:
- Chen S, Li Z, Krochmal R, Abrazado M, Kim W, & Cooper CB (2010). Effect of Cs-4® (Cordyceps sinensis) on exercise performance in healthy older subjects: a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Journal of alternative and complementary medicine (New York, NY), 16(5), 585-590. doi: 10.1089/acm.2009.0226
- Li, Y., Ding, Y., Chen, L., Zhang, Z., Wang, Y., Wang, Z., … Wang, X. (2016). A polysaccharide from fermented Cordyceps sinensis induces proliferation and differentiation of human osteoblasts. International journal of biological macromolecules, 86, 502–509. doi: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2016.01.050
- Zhu, J. S., Halpern, G. M., & Jones, K. (1998). The scientific rediscovery of an ancient Chinese herbal medicine: Cordyceps sinensis: part I. Journal of alternative and complementary medicine (New York, N.Y.), 4(3), 289–303. doi: 10.1089/acm.1998.4.289
- Wong, K. K., & Law, Y. (2005). Quality control of Cordyceps sinensis, a valued traditional Chinese medicine. Journal of pharmaceutical and biomedical analysis, 37(1), 335–346. doi: 10.1016/j.jpba.2004.09.017
