Cordyceps Mushroom: Benefits & Supplements

Cordyceps

In modern times

In recent times, the many studies conducted on Cordyceps (Cordyceps sinensis) in universities and research centres around the world have confirmed what Traditional Chinese Medicine had discovered over the centuries. Its efficacy in the treatment of liver disorders (Holliday et al., 2005; Dai et al., 2001), in cardiovascular problems (Yan et al., 2013; Chen et al., 1995), in strengthening physical and mental energy and the health of the male and female sexual apparatus (Huang et al., 2004; Huang et al., 2001; Zhu et al., 1998a and 1998b) has been recognized and demonstrated.

Ancient tradition

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Cordyceps is highly appreciated and has been used for many centuries for various illnesses: respiratory diseases, kidney diseases, liver disorders, cardiovascular problems, low energy, reduced male and female sexuality.

Mycology

Originating in the Tibet region, Cordyceps grows at altitudes of up to five thousand meters.
For centuries, in these places, native populations have known about its beneficial effects on the body, especially for fighting fatigue. One of the strengths of Cordyceps is its ability to increase physical and mental energy, a feature that makes it highly appreciated by athletes, but also by people with an intense pace of life. It became well-known after the female Chinese athletes during the 1993 Chinese National Athletics Games in Beijing broke a remarkable series of records. Their amazing performances fuelled suspicions about a probable use of illicit substances, but the doping tests excluded such substances: in addition to high level training, the results obtained were attributed to Cordyceps.
This Medicinal Mushroom is authorized by all world sports federations, including the IOC (International Olympic Committee), because it is a safe and beneficial remedy for the health of athletes.

Chemical compounds

In Cordyceps there are:

beta-glucans, which stimulate the immune system (Koh et al., 2002; Kuo et al., 2005 e 2007);
cordycepin (deoxy-adenosine), a molecule similar to adenosine, which guarantees numerous beneficial effects. It is a powerful antibiotic and antiviral (Holliday et al., 2004). Cordyceps increases blood oxygenation and is an excellent adjuvant for all our organs (Yi et al., 2004);
adenosine has a vasodilator effect, promoting blood circulation throughout the body (Berne, 1980; Toda et al., 1982; Pelleg e Porter, 1990). It reduces anxiety and is an effective anti-inflammatory agent (Akkari et al., 2006; Ukai et al., 1983);
cytochrome P-450 (CYP450) is a group of liver enzymes. It represents the main detoxification mechanism of the body against external (such as alcohol, chemicals and drugs) and internal (body's waste products) agents. It is probably the most advanced purification system in nature, present in all mammals and fungi;
antioxidant enzymes, in particular Superoxide Dismutase (SOD), which counteracts the harmful action of free radicals;
the polysaccharides CS-F30 and CS-F10, which lower blood sugar (Kiho et al., 1999 e 2000; Zhao et al., 2002);
terpenes are essential oils that give the Medicinal Mushroom a pleasant aroma. They perform a useful antibacterial action (Bernardshaw et al., 2005);
cordycepic acid (D-mannitol), a urinary germicide.

Bibliography

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