17 Surprising Health Benefits of Cordyceps
Cordyceps mushrooms have been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. They’re getting some much-deserved attention in the West because of their extraordinary health advantages.
From boosting the immune system and kidney function to promoting athletic performance and quality sleep, and even supporting brain health, here are the potential health benefits of the mysterious superfood called Cordyceps militaris.
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Does cordyceps boost the immune system?
Does cordyceps increase energy levels?
Cordyceps and athletic performance
Anti-inflammatory properties of cordyceps
Anti-cancer properties of cordyceps
How does cordyceps promote cardiovascular health?
Does cordyceps help with diabetes?
Cordyceps and respiratory function
Can cordyceps make you sleep better?
How does cordyceps promote wound healing?
Does cordyceps aid skin health?
Does cordyceps boost brain function?
How does cordyceps aid gut health?
Does cordyceps reduce anxiety and depression?
Can cordyceps boost testosterone levels?
We took a deep dive into the science behind the magic of cordyceps mushrooms. Buckle up and keep reading to find out why this weird fungus is termed a superfood.
Wanting to try cordyceps? Try Our mushroom matcha tea is available in these tea packets or this 30-serving jar of cordyceps goodness. Stir it into hot water, wait for it to cool a little, and drink. It’s delicious, and it delivers all 17 of the benefits we cover below—and likely many more.
Cordyceps has long been used in traditional Chinese medicine and other Eastern medical practices as tinctures, herbal remedies, and tonics. It has only recently become a popular ingredient in supplements and other beneficial products.
A 2014 review summarized the pharmacological and therapeutic benefits of cordyceps mushrooms. Some of the potential health effects include:
- Anti-bacterial
- Anti-diabetic
- Antioxidant
- Anti-tumor
- Anti-inflammatory
- Apoptotic
- Hypoglycemic
- Neuroprotective
- Immunomodulatory
Take a look at our ultimate list of 17 powerful benefits of cordyceps mushrooms. You might have heard of some already—it’s no secret that cordyceps is great for inflammation and low sex drive—but there’s so much more to this “superhero fungus” than meets the eye.
Health benefits of cordyceps. Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7356751/
Benefit 1: Cordyceps and the Immune System
Cordyceps is well-known for its immune-boosting properties. The immune system is critical to keeping us healthy and protecting our bodies from viruses and illnesses. Researchers have found that polysaccharides and beta-glucans in cordyceps mushrooms boost the immune system. Beta-glucans seem to activate immune cells by binding directly to their receptors and increasing immunological activity. As a result, cordyceps mushrooms are excellent at fighting infections and viruses.
A randomized, double-blind clinical trial found that adding cordyceps to your diet can improve immune functioning and protect you from oxidative stress.
Cordyceps Against Oxidative Stress and Free Radicals
Cordyceps mushrooms contain antioxidants that help protect our immune system from oxidative damage and inflammation.
Oxidative stress is the result of an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants. Free radicals are extremely reactive and unstable molecules that cause oxidation in our cells and tissues. Antioxidants, on the other hand, stabilize the effects of free radicals. The excess of free radicals and a lack of antioxidants in the body leads to oxidative stress, cellular damage, and illnesses like cancer, cardiovascular disease, and even Alzheimer’s.
Benefit 2: Cordyceps as an Energy Booster
Researchers discovered that cordyceps has the ability to replenish energy by distributing energy molecules to our cells. The 2020 research article looked at the effects of cordyceps mushrooms on exercise performance in healthy mice and found that cordyceps aids ATP generation in mitochondrial cells.
Adenosine triphosphate (ATP), also called the “energy molecule,” is an essential energy-synthesizing chemical. It improves cellular functions by releasing energy during the phosphorylation process and acts as the main source and storage of energy.
Compared to coffee and other products that give you energy, cordyceps seems to give you energy that lasts longer and is more stable. This makes cordyceps an excellent alternative to coffee and a less jittery way to increase energy and fight fatigue.
Benefit 3: Cordyceps and Athletic Performance
Speaking of energy, cordyceps improves athletic performance in a similar way. There is scientific evidence that cordyceps mushrooms can increase an athlete's oxygen absorption, which is an essential measure of endurance and aerobic capacity (remember, cordyceps boosts ATP, which is our body’s energy source).
Clinical studies have shown that cordyceps also improves the lactate threshold. The lactate threshold is the point at which lactic acid builds up in the blood to levels higher than resting values during incremental activity. Recreational and professional athletes can use cordyceps to improve their athletic efficiency.
The anti-inflammatory effects of cordyceps help improve your exercise performance by reducing muscle soreness and speeding up your post-exercise recovery. Cordyceps has also been shown to improve mental performance and focus.
Benefit 4: Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Cordyceps
Cordyceps mushrooms are probably best known for their extraordinary anti-inflammatory properties. One of the main molecules of cordyceps, a naturally occurring nucleoside called cordycepin, seems to reduce inflammation. A 2020 study review revealed that cordycepin-rich ethanol extracts can block inflammatory mechanisms in chronic inflammatory disorders, such as hepatitis, asthma, and rheumatoid arthritis.
Cordyceps is also rich in polysaccharides, complex biomolecules and crucial sources of energy in our body. A 2014 human cell study investigated the anti-inflammatory potential of polysaccharides from Cordyceps militaris. The results showed that these molecules suppress certain types of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1, TNF-, and COX-2), proteins that play an important role in mediating inflammatory responses. Reduced levels of cytokines and inhibition of their function lead to lower inflammation in the body.
Benefit 5: Anti-cancer Properties of Cordyceps
While it is not a cure-all for cancer, including cordyceps mushrooms in your diet may help you fight the disease and alleviate its symptoms. Due to its powerful antioxidant and anti-metastatic properties, cordyceps is a powerful cancer-fighting fungus.
Research on leukemia and melanoma shows that, by causing apoptosis (cancer cell death), cordyceps mushrooms seem to inhibit cancer growth. Cordyceps can affect tumor growth and slow the spread of breast cancer, prostate cancer, and other types of carcinomas.
Japanese researchers have discovered the extraordinary therapeutic benefits of Cordyceps militaris and Cordyceps sinensis for treating cancer. Their research found that cordyceps suppresses the invasiveness of cancer cells. The mushroom can also help your body recover from stress after chemotherapy and relieve the side effects of cancer treatments.
Benefit 6: Cordyceps and Cardiovascular Health
Cordyceps mushrooms have been shown to promote cardiovascular health. They are particularly effective in improving blood flow and lowering blood pressure.
Clinical studies show that adenosine, a chemical found in Cordyceps militaris, has a vasodilatory effect: it helps relax and widen blood vessels, boost circulation, and lower blood pressure, which is terrific news for individuals who suffer from hypertension (high blood pressure). Consuming small amounts of cordyceps regularly could help them regulate their blood pressure in a natural and safe way.
The antioxidant properties of cordyceps help protect the heart and arteries from oxidative stress. It promotes heart health by reducing inflammation and preventing plaque buildup in the arteries.
Arterial plaque can be a potential risk for developing heart diseases. Plaque accumulates in arteries due to high cholesterol levels. Cholesterol builds up in the arterial lining and can lead to coronary artery diseases, angina, heart attacks, and even heart failure.
Benefit 7: Cordyceps Against Diabetes
High triglyceride and LDL ("bad" cholesterol) levels are commonly associated with heart disease. But did you know that diabetes decreases HDL, or “good” cholesterol, while it increases LDL cholesterol?
Cordyceps seems to work in the opposite direction, counteracting the effects of diabetes on blood lipids. Researchers examined the effects of cordyceps on rats suffering from hyperlipidemia (too many “bad” fats in their blood) and found that it reduced the levels of LDL (low-density lipoprotein cholesterol). It was able to lower bad cholesterol mainly by regulating blood sugar levels.
One study suggested that cordyceps decreases sugar levels in the blood by helping your body utilize insulin more effectively. (Insulin is a hormone that turns sugar into energy.) Cordyceps also fights diabetes by helping your body absorb more sugar from food.
In 2016, an animal study was conducted onSprague-Dawley ratswith induced diabetes. After three weeks, the researchers looked at the animals' glucose levels, lipid metabolism, and body weights before and after they were treated with cordyceps. The results confirmed the ability of cordyceps to lower blood sugar levels, increase insulin sensitivity, and even protect internal organs against damage caused by diabetes.
Remember polysaccharides?Scientific evidence points to the abundance of polysaccharides found in cordyceps mushrooms that seem to lower blood sugar and manage insulin resistance. They may also have another important function: protecting against diabetic nephropathy (kidney damage caused by diabetes).
Benefit 8: Cordyceps Improves Kidney Function
Cordycepin, a molecule in Cordyceps militaris, seems to slow down the activity of genes (TLR4 and NF-B signaling pathways) that are involved in inflammatory processes in our bodies. According to astudy, the anti-inflammatory qualities of cordyceps may treat chronic kidney disease (CKD). Cordyceps is believed to improve kidney function by reducing inflammation and increasing blood flow, as blood circulation is necessary for the normal functioning of our kidneys.
Benefit 9: Cordyceps and the Respiratory System
Cordyceps mushrooms have long been used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat coughs and respiratory problems.Studies on respiratory diseases suggest that cordyceps might be able to improve lung health and pulmonary function.
People who suffer from respiratory disorders like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) often struggle with impaired breathing and fatigue. Cordycepswas shown to significantly reduce and even eliminate these issues, mainly by providing the lungs with enough oxygen.
While more human studies are needed to completely understand the effects of Cordyceps militaris on respiratory function, the mushrooms may be a promising natural therapy for improving lung health.
Benefit 10: Cordyceps Improves Sleep
Long-term consumption of cordyceps mushrooms is associated with better sleep quality. Cordyceps boosts oxygen in the blood, improving your mental and physical daytime performance. At the same time, the flow of oxygenated blood around your body helps you maintain a healthy nighttime routine.
A2013 study found that cordycepin reduces sleep-wake cycles and enhances non-REM sleep. NREM sleep is the non-rapid movement sleep stage during which your brain activity, heart rate, and breathing are reduced. The NREM sleep stage has an important role in helping your body repair tissues, build bones and muscles, and strengthen the immune system.
In the study, cordycepin boosted total sleep time and decreased wakefulness in mice. Their theta-wave power density during NREM sleep was significantly increased. Theta waves are associated with sleepiness and meditation.
Despite its beneficial properties for sleep, experts don’t recommend taking cordyceps immediately before bed. Mushrooms like cordyceps can reset your circadian cycle and pump you up with energy. If you take them in the morning or early afternoon, you’ll feel their stimulating effects throughout the day and their soothing properties at night.
Benefit 11: Cordyceps and Wound Healing
There is evidence that cordyceps can effectively aid wound healing processes. It promotes cell proliferation and increases collagen formation, both important for skin recovery.
A2022 study found that cordyceps treatment led to an approximately 2.4 times faster wound closure rate than other treatments. After only seven days of treatment, cordyceps was able to aid healing 4.1 times faster than the untreated group in the study.
The mushroom’s bioactive compounds—polysaccharides, adenosine, and cordycepin—appear to spur on the healing process. These substances stimulate tissue repair and regeneration, encourage the formation of new blood vessels, and help your skin produce more collagen.
Speaking of collagen…
Benefit 12: Cordyceps for Healthy Skin
Cordyceps might be a viable natural therapy for keeping various skin disorders under control. Due to its outstanding range of bioactive components, cordyceps is able to reduce swelling and redness, lock in moisture, supply your skin with antioxidants, and boost collagen production.
Inflammation and swelling are among the top five enemies of healthy skin, causing redness, itching sensations, pain, and skin dryness. Chronic inflammatory skin conditions like dermatitis, psoriasis, poison ivy, and poison oak can benefit from the anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and antioxidant properties of cordyceps.
Did you know that antioxidant-rich supplementation is the key to keeping your skin fresh and young?
Benefit 13: Cordyceps for Healthy Aging
Cordyceps appears to have anti-aging properties. Given its potent inflammation-reducing properties, we can’t say we’re surprised.
Its wealth of antioxidants might just be what makes cordyceps such a potent anti-aging supplement. The mushroom protects the body’s cells from free radical damage while, at the same time, stimulating our immune system and fighting inflammation.
A 2004animal study found that cordyceps boosts red blood cell function in elderly rats. In addition, the researchers saw a boost in their learning and memory capacities. Cordyceps has also been shown to promote healthy brain aging, boost cognitive performance, and possibly lower the likelihood of age-related cognitive decline.
The research on cordyceps and its anti-aging properties is promising; however, more human studies are needed to confirm these effects on humans.
Benefit 14: Cordyceps Boosts Memory
Cordyceps may improve memory and cognitive function. With its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, adenosine can regulate brain function. Its ability to stimulate the activity of other neurotransmitters such as dopamine and glutamate is critical for maintaining optimal brain function and boosting memory and learning.
Studies have shown that cordyceps mushrooms may improve learning and memory by eliminating oxygen free radicals, reducing oxidative damage, and protecting the nervous system. Oxygen flow to the brain is one of the most important elements of keeping your brain mechanisms running smoothly. Cordyceps improves cognitive performance by doing just that—supplying your brain cells with oxygen and necessary nutrients.
Remember polysaccharides? It seems they also act as neuroprotective agents. They could help by preventing oxidative stress and inflammation-related brain cell damage, which frequently results in cognitive impairment and neurodegenerative disorders.The neuroprotective effects of polysaccharides shield the hippocampus from cognitive disorders, vascular dementia, and neuroinflammation.
Benefit 15: Cordyceps for a Healthy Gut
Cordyceps is not only good for brain health but for your gut as well. The magical mushroom improves gastrointestinal health simply by changing the balance of gut flora and—wait for it—reducing inflammation.
More than 3 million Americans suffer from chronic inflammatory conditions of the gastrointestinal tract, with the majority of those diagnosed being younger than 35. The most common symptoms of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) are abdominal pain, persistent diarrhea, and fatigue. If you’re struggling with these or experience any other type of gut-related disorders, eating cordyceps mushrooms may alleviate your symptoms and improve your gut health.
Cordyceps has been shown in studies to boost the helpful bacteria while decreasing the abundance of the dangerous ones. Inone study on pigs, cordyceps was able to alter the intestinal microbial composition by increasing the concentration of acetate and butyrate. These two fatty acids are the main large intestinal microbiota fermentation products of soluble fibers. Acetate and butyrate provide energy to the epithelial cells in the colon, and help maintain gut homeostasis.
In other animal models, cordyceps has been found to reduce IBD symptoms, primarily through anti-inflammatory actions. It may also aid in the repair of the gut lining and reduce the risk of intestinal permeability, which is linked to a variety of chronic disorders.
Benefit 16: Cordyceps for Anxiety and Depression
Cordyceps is also great for your mental health. Let’s talk more about adenosine and cordycepin, two beneficial compounds found in Cordyceps militaris.
Adenosine has sedative properties that can alleviate symptoms of anxiety. It attaches to brain receptors that control sleep and mood, providing relaxation and soothing effects.
Cordycepin has been shown to elevate dopamine levels in the brain. Dopamine is an important brain chemical—the so-called “feel-good” hormone—that regulates mood, stimulates and reinforces pleasant experiences, and influences the activity of other neurotransmitters (like serotonin, another neurotransmitter that regulates mood and emotion). By raising dopamine levels, cordycepin can alleviate symptoms of depression and many other disorders.
Tryptophan is another antidepressant-like compound found in cordyceps. Your body needs plenty of this amino acid in order to produce serotonin, another feel-good hormone. A lack of serotonin has been directly linked to depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders.
Benefit 17: Cordyceps Improves Sexual Function
Did you know that people of the Far East call cordyceps the “natural Himalayan viagra"? Consuming Cordyceps militaris has been linked to improved sexual function, particularly in men, byraising testosterone levels. Testosterone is a hormone that regulates male sexual health, such as libido, sperm production, and erectile function. Higher testosterone is correlated with normal bone density and muscle strength, healthy sexual and reproductive function, and an overall sense of well-being.
Astudy published in the American Journal of Chinese Medicine revealed that cordyceps supplementation has a positive effect on sperm production and mobility in animal models. The rats in the study were given a supplement made from cordyceps mycelium. After six weeks, the animals showed an increased number of motile sperm cells, which are particularly important for fertility.
Cordyceps can boost libido (sex drive) in both men and women. According toother research, Cordyceps militaris can increase sexual desire and activity and boost physical performance, which can contribute to greater sexual function.
Looking to Include Cordyceps in Your Diet?
If you’d like to reap the rewards of the cordyceps mushroom, there’s no better way to take it than with ourcordyceps tea. Packed with cordyceps,matcha, andL-theanine, this tea is the ultimate way to up your health and fitness game.
What are Cordyceps Mushrooms?
Cordyceps is one of the most popular adaptogenic mushrooms. Cordyceps militaris and Cordyceps sinensis (Cordyceps CS-4) are the two most common species of cordyceps in a genus of fungi that includes over 600 species.
Most species of cordyceps are endoparasitoids: they feed on insect larvae and live as parasites on moths and caterpillars, which they eventually end up killing. This “caterpillar fungus” is distinguished by its orange-red fruiting bodies that resemble elongated clubs.
Cordyceps mushrooms contain a long list of bioactive substances that provide a variety of pharmacological and therapeutic effects.
- Adenosine
- Cordycepin
- Ergosterol
- Fibrinolytic enzyme
- Polysaccharides
- Nucleosides
- Nucleobases (cytosine, uracil, thymine, adenine, guanine, hypoxanthine)
- Peptides (including cordymin)
- Tryptophan
Is Cordyceps Safe to Consume?
Cordyceps mushrooms are considered completely safe to use. If you’re allergic to yeast, mold, or other types of fungi, the chances are you’ll have allergic reactions to cordyceps, too.
Consuming cordyceps in moderation, especially if it’s your first time, is the best way to reap its beneficial effects. Always start with a low amount (1–3 grams) and gradually increase the dosage as you feel comfortable.
How to Take Cordyceps
Cordyceps mushrooms are available in capsules, powders, extracts, and—our favorite—teas. Drinking cordyceps tea is one of the easiest and most traditional ways to use mushrooms as herbal medicine. Tryour cordyceps tea with matcha and experience exceptional flavors and unique medicinal and therapeutic benefits. The finely ground green tea powder gives it a deep, earthy note, perfect for daily enjoyment.
What is the difference between Cordyceps sinensis and Cordyceps militaris?
There are a few differences between C. militaris and C. sinensis.
- Cordyceps sinensis is extremely rare to find. It grows wild in nature and cannot be cultivated in a lab. That also means: pricey. C. sinensis is probably the most expensive mushroom in the world—one kilogram of this magic mushroom costs $20,000.
- Cordyceps militaris is the cultivated alternative to its expensive cousin. The production of C. militaris involves no dead insects because it is mostly produced in laboratories.
- Concentration of key compounds may vary between the two varieties.One study on Cordyceps militaris has found that the content of cordycepin and adenosine is much higher in C. militaris than C. sinensis. Anotherstudy on Cordyceps sinensis claims that while C. militaris contains more cordycepin, C. sinensis has a higher concentration of adenosine.
Regarding concentrations of key compounds: the way the mushrooms are grown may have as much influence on concentrations as the actual variety (militaris, sinensis, other varieties). Here are factors that influence the quality of cordyceps and its key concentrations:
- Growing conditions
- Extraction method
- Maturity of the mushroom when harvested
That’s why we are very selective about who we source our mushrooms from. Our Cordyceps militaris comes directly from China, from an organic farm in Lishui, Zhejiang province. To ensure the maximum amount of cordycepin, adenosine, and beta-glucan, our products are tested in third-party labs. No toxins, fillers, or heavy metals in our tea!
Benefits of Cordyceps FAQ
Can cordyceps increase anxiety?
There is no evidence that cordyceps mushrooms increase anxiety in humans. In fact, some research suggests that cordyceps may have anti-anxiety properties.
Cordyceps seems to reduce anxiety via chemicals like cordycepin and adenosine. Cordycepin and adenosine have been proven to reduce anxious behavior and lower oxidative stress in the body, which can contribute to feelings of worry and tension.
How does cordyceps make you feel?
One of the key effects of cordyceps is boosting energy and promoting mood. Cordyceps is packed with adenosine, cordycepin, and beta-glucans, substances that help maintain healthy energy levels. Together, they help the body utilize oxygen in the most optimal way and promote circulation, which can further improve both physical and mental energy levels.
Cordyceps also has mood-enhancing properties. It can help alleviate symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression. The presence of cordycepin, which has been shown inanimal studies to have anti-anxiety and antidepressant characteristics, is one possible reason for this effect.
Who should avoid cordyceps?
While cordyceps mushrooms are generally regarded as safe for the majority of people, certain groups should avoid them or use them with caution.
- People who are allergic to mushrooms or have a history of allergic responses to other types of fungi should be careful with cordyceps.
- People who suffer from bleeding disorders or are using blood-thinning medication should avoid cordyceps, as it may increase the risk of bleeding.
- Before taking cordyceps during pregnancy or breastfeeding, consult with your healthcare provider.
Can I take cordyceps every day?
Cordyceps is safe enough to take daily. The longer you take cordyceps mushrooms, the greater the impact they have on your health. If you plan to take cordyceps on a regular basis, it's best to stick to the recommended dosage of 1–3 grams of cordyceps powder.
Is cordyceps good for multiple sclerosis?
Some studies have shown that cordyceps products may be beneficial for people suffering from multiple sclerosis.
Multiple sclerosis is an auto-immune disease that damages the myelin sheath that surrounds nerve fibers in the central nervous system. Multiple sclerosis is characterized by neuroinflammation, which leads to neurodegeneration. As more scientificevidence confirms it, cordyceps has been shown to reduce inflammation in the body.
By enhancing immune functioning and potentially reducing the risk of immune-related diseases, the mushroom cordyceps might be able to alleviate symptoms of multiple sclerosis.
Does cordyceps affect hormones?
Cordyceps has been demonstrated to strengthen your adrenal glands while balancing hormones like estrogen and progesterone. Keeping your adrenal glands in order can improve your sleep, aid weight management, and maintain a healthy immune system.
One study suggested that cordyceps was linked to an increase in testosterone levels in healthy older males.Other research shows how cordyceps may increase the production of cortisol, a hormone that helps the body respond to stress and fatigue, and influence the synthesis of other hormones such as luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, and prolactin.
Does cordyceps contain caffeine?
Cordyceps mushrooms do not contain caffeine. They are known to boost energy levels and help your body use oxygen more efficiently, thus improving blood flow, but the stimulating effect of cordyceps does not come from caffeine.
Why is cordyceps called “caterpillar fungus?”
Cordyceps sinensis is often referred to as "caterpillar fungus” because, hundreds of years ago, Chinese people believed caterpillar fungi were worms. More recent research had discovered that, in fact, they were fruit bodies generated by the fungus Cordyceps sinensis on deceased moth caterpillars.
Cordyceps mushrooms resemble insects and caterpillars due to their elongated bodies, shapes, and colors. Due to its unusual appearance, C. sinensis is sometimes called a “vegetable caterpillar” or “winter worm” in traditional Chinese medicine.
Can mushrooms like cordyceps and turkey tail treat cancer?
Evidence-based research shows that particular mushroom species, such as cordyceps and turkey tail, may have potential health benefits for cancer prevention.
According toresearch, mushrooms like cordyceps and turkey tail have bioactive chemicals that can boost the immune system and help the body fight cancer cells. Turkey tail mushrooms contain a polysaccharide known as PSP, which seems to have powerful anti-tumor properties.
While the evidence is promising, it is crucial to highlight that research into mushroom anti-cancer benefits is still in its early stages. Further research is needed to fully understand the possible health advantages of these functional mushrooms in treating breast cancer, prostate cancer, leukemia, melanoma, and other types of carcinomas.
What are the best mushrooms for the immune system?
Adaptogenic mushrooms like cordyceps, turkey tail, and reishi mushrooms are considered the healthiest choice for boosting and protecting your immune system. They enhance the production of red and white blood cells, which fight infections and maintain a healthy immune system.
What are the health benefits of Cordyceps sinensis?
Cordyceps sinensis, a type of medicinal mushroom, has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries to treat various health issues. Extracts of cordyceps mushrooms have gained popularity in recent years due to their ability to improve heart health and exercise performance.
Cs-4 cordyceps, in particular, has been found to improve liver function and reduce cholesterol levels. A 2004 double-blind, placebo-controlledtrial found that C. sinensis was able to enhance athletic capacity and respiratory function in older people. Other evidence-based research indicates that they have the potential to alleviate symptoms of various chronic conditions (e.g., multiple sclerosis, dementia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, heart disease).
Many people include extracts of cordyceps in their dietary supplementation regime due to these and the following benefits of cordyceps:
- Enhances high-intensity exercise performance and endurance
- Lowers cholesterol and improves immunological function
- Reduces inflammation
- Enhances cognitive function
- Promotes healthy weight loss
Are functional mushrooms safe to consume?
Functional mushrooms are a safe and natural way to improve your overall health and boost your aerobic capacity. Adaptogenic and medicinal mushrooms both fall under the umbrella term "functional mushrooms.” The best-known and most researched types of functional mushrooms are lion’s mane, reishi mushrooms, Cordyceps militaris, and Cordyceps sinensis (CS-4 cordyceps).
Functional mushrooms, such as C. militaris and other types of cordyceps, may also aid in the recovery and healing process following a kidney transplant. It has been used as anadjunctive treatment in China to help improve kidney function and lower the risk of post-surgery complications.
Before including any type of functional mushroom into your wellness routine, as with any dietary supplementation, you should consult with your healthcare provider.
Can cordyceps mushrooms help me lose weight?
According toresearch, mushroom cordyceps may have some anti-obesity properties. It seems that cordyceps can aid weight loss by increasing the levels of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), a key component in energy production.
Remember how cordyceps extracts promote gut health and improve digestive function? This may be another way these magical mushrooms aid weight management and immune functioning.
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