Why Use Cordyceps Mycelium Powder and Capsules?

Cordyceps mycelium has been used for centuries in the medical traditions of many Asian nations. In Chinese Herbal Medicine the mycelia of cordyceps mushrooms play a versatile medicinal role.

Cordyceps is a botanical genus of the Ascomycota phylum. It contains more than 400 species of fungi, but C. sinensis and C. militaris are the most studied and understood.

All species of cordyceps are parasitic, meaning they require a host to survive and will eventually cause the host’s death. One of the most popular cordyceps species – C. sinensis – grows on the back of a caterpillar native to the Tibetan plateau in China.

Before the fungus could be cultured in a controlled environment, the only way to get cordyceps was to scavenge for them in the wild, which made the supplement very rare and extremely expensive.

Now the supplement is readily available and the mycelium of cordyceps is still in demand for its possible health benefits.

Cordyceps Sinensis

Mushroom Supplement

Immunity

Stamina

Anti- Aging

How It Works:

• Shown to reduce fatigue & stress
• Anti-oxidant that stimulates the immune system
• Increases testosterone secretion & libido

Dosage:

Between 500 - 1000 mg per day

Safety:

Rated Possibly Safe

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What Is Cordyceps Mycelium?

Cordyceps mushrooms are ascomycete fungi, also called “sac” fungi.

All species of cordyceps are parasitic organisms, feeding on various arthropods, most notably Thitarodes caterpillars. It is the mycelium of the fungus that invades its host to absorb nutrients and support growth.

Mycelia are the vegetative component of fungi that spread to form a network of very fine branching filaments called hyphae.

The fungus absorbs nutrients through the mycelium by first releasing enzymes to break down surrounding nutrients and then absorbing these nutrients to sustain life and support growth.

In the case of C. sinensis, the hyphae are thought to enter the larva of the caterpillar through its breathing pores. As the larva hibernates through the winter months, its infested body becomes mummified and dies. The entire body cavity becomes filled with cordyceps mycelium.

In the summer months, a fruiting body (stroma) may burst through the carcass of the caterpillar. Most cordyceps supplements include both the mycelium contained in the host body and the fruiting body.

Medicinal Properties of Cordyceps Mycelium

In animal-based and human in-vitro studies, the phytonutrients of cordyceps mycelium have been shown to induce an array of medicinal properties.

Although there has been a large amount of research into some of the better known species of cordyceps, including C. sinensis, these studies are often small and do not clearly illustrate a particular therapeutic role for the fungus.

However, there is some preliminary evidence to suggest that cordyceps may exhibit antitumor, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, vasodilatory, immunomodulatory, hypolipidemic and antidiabetic properties. Further research is required to understand what, if any, specific therapeutic role cordyceps can play in the support of human health.

Cordyceps Mycelium and Cardiovascular Health

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States and throughout the world.

Heart disease is a blanket term referring to numerous diseases and conditions that may negatively affect the function and lifespan of the heart muscle.

Most heart disease is the result of another blanket term: coronary artery disease.

Coronary artery disease refers to a number of conditions that restrict circulation. Important constituents of blood – including nutrients and hormones – are not delivered effectively when circulation is compromised. Over time, inefficient blood delivery requires the heart to work harder, which can cause strain and damage.

Coronary artery disease (and heart disease more generally) is affected by excessive amounts of triglycerides (stored fats), LDL cholesterol and other fatty substances in the bloodstream.

Adenosine and beta-glucan polysaccharides in cordyceps mycelium have been observed to reduce LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, which may help stave off disease and support good health.

Possible Health Benefits of Cordyceps Mycelium

Cordyceps mycelium is classified as a “Jing” tonic in Chinese Herbal Medicine (CHM). That means it is both a yin and yang substance, known for potently reinforcing the life force (Qi). It was traditionally used to increase mental energy and clarity, improve libido and increase physical power.

Now individuals use cordyceps for a variety of purposes, such as strengthening the immune system and supporting the kidneys, liver and heart. However, there is insufficient evidence to support these therapeutic uses. There is currently not enough evidence from clinical trials for Western medicine practitioners to recommend therapeutic uses for cordyceps supplementation.

Cordyceps Mycelium Side Effects

Cordyceps are generally well tolerated and supplementation is not associated with any severe or permanent side effects. However, cordyceps have been reported to cause short-term stomach upset, nausea, dry mouth and diarrhea in a small number of cases. No specific drug interactions have been definitively established.

Due to its ability to affect glucose levels and immune system function, individuals suffering from diabetes or disorders of the immune system should speak to a doctor before beginning supplementation. As with all supplements, be sure to speak to your doctor before beginning to take cordyceps mycelium.

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