How Cordyceps Boosts Libido and Fires Up the Bedroom - HONE
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How Cordyceps Boosts Libido and Fires Up the Bedroom

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How Cordyceps Boosts Libido and Fires Up the Bedroom - HONE

Originating from the high altitudes of the Himalayas, cordyceps mushrooms have long been revered in traditional medicine for their wide-ranging health benefits. Cordyceps’ unique ability to boost libido and rekindle passion has earned cordyceps a flattering nickname: “Himalayan Viagra.” 

Article jumplinks:

What is cordyceps?

What is libido?

What causes low libido?

How does cordyceps help?

Benefits of cordyceps for men

Benefits of cordyceps for women

The best time to take cordyceps

This potent functional mushroom contains bioactive compounds that reduce anxiety, boost circulation, increase energy and stamina, and promote sexual vitality.

So, why not discover the potential of our cordyceps tea to ignite your passion and enhance your overall sexual wellness?

Mushroom Matcha - 30 Serving Jar

What Are Cordyceps Mushrooms?

Cordyceps militaris is a fungus of the genus Cordyceps, which contains over 600 species. It has been used for millennia in traditional Chinese medicine due to its exceptional health benefits. Today, Cordyceps militaris is one of the most praised medicinal mushrooms. 

The Cordyceps fungi are adaptogenic. Their chemical constituents assist our bodies in adapting to physical, emotional, and environmental stress. Here are some more benefits associated with cordyceps: 

The list of health benefits of cordyceps goes on and on.Cordyceps contains a boatload of bioactive compounds that boost libido and promote vitality: adenosine, cordycepin, polysaccharides, essential amino acids, and so many more. 

There are over 600 species of Cordyceps in the genus, with Cordyceps militaris and Cordyceps sinensis being two of the most investigated and popular ones. Let’s dig deep into what makes cordyceps a super-natural Viagra.

What Is Libido? 

Libido, often referred to as sex drive or sexual desire, is a complex combination of hormonal, psychological, and physiological factors that contribute to a person’s sexual arousal and interest in sexual activity. 

Libido is important in every man’s and woman’s life for several reasons:

  • For relationship satisfaction. A healthy libido is a vital element of a person’s satisfying sexual relationship. It fosters intimacy, bonding, and mutual pleasure.
  • For overall health. Sex drive is a natural and crucial part of human sexuality. A normal libido can contribute to a sense of vitality, happiness, and overall well-being in men and women equally. 
  • Healthy libidos are often a good indicator of a man’s or woman’s overall health, as changes in libido may indicate underlying hormonal imbalances, physical, psychological, or other conditions that require medical attention. 

What Causes Low Libido?

Decreased sexual desires affect both men and women. There are several causes of low libido. 

  1. Hormonal imbalances like low levels of estrogen and testosterone can negatively affect libido. Testosterone, the primary male sex hormone, plays a crucial role in regulating libido in men. Testosterone levels tend to drop due to aging, certain medical conditions, or lifestyle factors. In women, the key female sex hormone is estrogen. When estrogen levels are low, several physiological and psychological changes can occur that may impact a woman's sex drive.
  2. Psychological factors like stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and emotional distress can significantly impact libido.
  3. Certain medications, such as antidepressants, blood pressure medications, and hormonal therapies, may have side effects that reduce libido. Health conditions like diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular diseases, and hormonal disorders can also dampen sex drive.
  4. Sedentary lifestyles, excessive alcohol consumption, drug abuse, poor sleep, inadequate nutrition, and other poor lifestyle choices can all influence libido negatively.

Decreased libido in men and women can lead to frustration, resentment, and emotional distance in intimate relationships. This can negatively impact self-esteem, particularly in men, leading to feelings of inadequacy, guilt, and further emotional distress. 

However, libido is a unique and individual experience. It can fluctuate throughout a person's life due to stress, hormonal changes, aging, or relationship dynamics. 

Herbal supplements can be a natural and holistic approach to boosting sexual desire and improving overall sexual performance. There are a few herbal supplements out there that have been traditionally used for their potential aphrodisiac properties. One such is Cordyceps militaris. 

Why Cordyceps Is Called “Natural Viagra”

Cordyceps mushrooms contain bioactive compounds that promote sexual vitality and optimize sexual functioning. These potent fungi have been used in traditional Chinese and other Eastern medicine for centuries: cordyceps can enhance sexual desire and improve sexual performance

Before you continue, check out our customer-favorite 30-serving jar of cordyceps tea. Since our blend also contains organic matcha, you can enjoy the combined benefits of two wholesome adaptogens. 

Mushroom Matcha - 30 Serving Jar

Matcha is renowned for its rich antioxidants, calming properties, and potential energy-boosting effects. Read more about the extraordinary health benefits of matcha

Does Cordyceps Support Hormonal Balance?

The bioactive compounds in Cordyceps militaris interact with the endocrine system, a network of glands and organs that produce and secrete hormones. As chemical messengers, hormones regulate important bodily functions in our body, like growth and development, mood regulation, immune system function, and reproduction. 

The adaptogenic nature of cordyceps helps us adapt to stress and cope with stressful situations, but it also contributes to hormonal production and regulation. 

Japanese study found thatCordyceps militaris fruiting bodies helped maintain healthy levels of testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in the blood of male mice. 

…CM increased the amount of testosterone and DHT in the culture media… Furthermore, the pattern of steroidogenic enzyme gene expression did not parallel the changes in testosterone and DHT levels in cultured cells. These findings suggest that CM increases androgen levels by suppressing androgen catabolism and/or enhancing the androgen secretory process in in vitro testicular cells.

Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone that helps regulate a plethora of vital processes in a man’s body, such as the development and maintenance of male reproductive organs and sexual characteristics, fertility, and sexual functioning. DHT is a hormone derived from testosterone. It shares similar responsibilities with testosterone, particularly in the development of male characteristics. 

An animal study found that cordyceps may boost testosterone levels.Increased testosterone resulted in an increase in the quantity and quality of sperm in male Sprague-Dawley rats

…percentages of motile sperm cells were also enhanced significantly (p < 0.05) paralleled the serum testosterone pattern from the supplement groups as compared to the control group. Taken together, these results indicate that supplementation with CM improves sperm quality and quantity in rats. (Chang, et. al.)

Yet another animal study revealed increased testosterone production in mice after taking cordyceps supplements. One of the most important bioactive compounds of cordyceps, called cordycepin, had positive effects on mouse Leydig cells. The Leydig cells are in charge of producing testosterone. By stimulating them, cordyceps increased steroidogenesis and testosterone synthesis.

In men, testosterone is closely linked to sexual arousal and desire. Higher testosterone levels can amplify sexual thoughts and fantasies and act as a driving force behind the initiation and motivation for sexual behavior. Not to mention that testosterone has another vital role in maintaining healthy blood flow, especially in the male genital region.

These results indicate that cordyceps mushrooms might be a great ally in the fight against infertility and decreased libido. Healthy hormonal levels can have positive outcomes for overall reproductive health, fertility, and increased libido in men and women. 

Does Cordyceps Increase Energy Levels and Physical Stamina?

Cordyceps mushrooms have become renowned for their ability to boost energy. Not only that, but these wondrous medicinal mushrooms seem to benefit the overall physical well-being of men and women. 

Cordyceps enhances exercise performance. It 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 adenosine triphosphate (ATP) generation in mitochondrial cells. 

ATP is the so-called “energy molecule.” It improves cellular functions by releasing, producing, and storing energy. According to the study, “C. militaris has the possibility of improving exercise performance, which could be associated with the increase in ATP production rather than the decrease in muscle fatigue during exercise.” 

Cordyceps also boosts physical stamina and endurance. This is closely related to the ability of cordyceps to improve the efficiency of oxygen utilization in the body. By increasing the blood flow, Cordyceps militaris enhances the delivery of oxygen to the muscles. This way, you have more stamina and can last longer—in exercise or in bed—delaying the onset of physical fatigue. 

These effects can give your sexual performance a boost, allowing you to deliver satisfying and marathon-like experiences under the sheets. 

Does Cordyceps Improve Cardiovascular Health?

We’ve mentioned several times how beneficial cordyceps is to our cardiovascular health—it can help protect the heart and its function, improve blood circulation, and lower blood pressure. 

Clinical studies show that adenosine, another potent chemical found in Cordyceps militaris, has a vasodilatory effect: it helps relax and widen blood vessels, boost circulation, and lower blood pressure.By helping to relax and widen blood vessels, adenosine facilitates greater blood flow to the genitals, resulting in enhanced sensitivity, arousal, and sexual pleasure in both men and women. 

The ability of cordyceps to improve blood flow and support healthy cardiovascular function not only enhances libido but also positively impacts erectile function in men. Erectile dysfunction (ED) often involves inadequate blood circulation in the penis. 

In a 2020 study, researchers investigated the effects of cordyceps on erectile dysfunction caused by diabetes. 

…the levels of penile NOS, testicular SOD activities, testosterone, and sperm count were significantly increased, and testicular malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were significantly decreased in these treated diabetic rats… These results suggest that CCM exerts its aphrodisiac effect, possibly through activating testosterone production and suppressing oxidative stress to enhance erectile function in diabetic rats. 

The results showed that diabetic rats had impaired mating behavior, lower intracavernosal pressure (ICP), decreased sperm count, lower testosterone levels, and altered enzyme activity compared to healthy rats. When the diabetic rats were given cultured cordyceps supplements, their mating behavior, ICP responses, levels of testosterone, and sperm count improved significantly. 

By promoting optimal blood circulation, cordyceps can help address the underlying factors contributing to ED, potentially leading to improved erectile function and a more satisfying sexual experience.

Don't let concerns about sexual health hold you back from the fulfilling and satisfying intimate moments you desire. Our matcha mushroom powder offers a convenient and delicious way to incorporate these powerful ingredients into your daily life. Add some excitement to your bedroom and enjoy the benefits of this unique blend. 

Mushroom Matcha Box - 10 Compostable Packets

Can Cordyceps Increase Nitric Oxide?

Nitric oxide is a molecule that causes blood vessels to dilate, facilitating blood flow to the genital area. 

  • For men, nitric oxide can help with healthy erections.
  • For women, nitric oxide is particularly important for proper vaginal function: it aids in the production of vaginal fluid, and helps with engorgement of the vaginal area with blood.

However, the harmful action of free radicals often destroys nitric oxide or reduces its activity, leading to impaired sexual function and decreased libido in women. 

Free radicals cause oxidative stress, which can damage the body and cause a plethora of medical conditions like cardiovascular disease, neurological impairments, and cancer. Oxidative stress and harmful free radicals also impair sexual function in men and women, reducing levels of vital sex hormones and destroying nitric oxide. 

The best way to fight free radicals is to increase the amount of antioxidants in the body. Guess what medicinal mushroom is brimming with antioxidants? 

But here’s the catch: even though too little nitric oxide can lead to reduced blood flow and sexual arousal, excessive production can lead to inflammation and tissue damage. A 2006 study found that cordycepin from Cordyceps militaris can regulate the production of nitric oxide in macrophage cells when they are exposed to lipopolysaccharide (LPS), a substance that triggers inflammation. 

No excessive levels of nitric oxide, no excessive inflammation. By reducing inflammation in the body and keeping nitric oxide at ideal levels, cordyceps may improve sexual function and increase libido in women. That’s what we call a win-win. 

Our jar of cordyceps matcha tea adds another win to the situation because of the double antioxidant activity. Matcha is renowned for its potent antioxidants, like catechins and EGCG, that target the bad free radicals in the body and reduce oxidative stress and inflammation. Enjoy the synergy of premium Japanese matcha and organic cordyceps mushrooms that propel your health and ignite a spark of passion. 

Mushroom Matcha - 30 Serving Jar

Does Cordyceps Reduce Anxiety?

The adaptogenic properties of cordyceps mushrooms strike again: by promoting a more relaxed state of mind,cordyceps mushrooms can help alleviate barriers to sexual desire, allowing men and women to fully engage in and enjoy intimate moments.

Stress and libido are intricately connected. Stress triggers the release of cortisol, the so-called stress hormone. Elevated cortisol levels can disrupt the delicate balance of other hormones, including those involved in sexual desire and function in both genders, such as testosterone and estrogen. This hormonal imbalance can lead to decreased libido.

Stress often affects mood, self-esteem, and overall mental well-being, which are kind of important for sex life. We can’t really relax and perform well when we’re under mental pressure.Scientific evidence points to the anti-stress and antidepressant-like effects of cordyceps mushrooms

2021 study revealed that by affecting the stress-related signaling pathway, cordyceps was able to reduce the symptoms of anxiety and depression in an animal model. Here are the study’s results:

  • All doses of cordyceps extract improved abnormal behaviors caused by chronic stress (e.g., a lack of pleasure and reduced activity).
  • The lowest cordyceps dose regulated levels of serotonin in the brain.
  • All doses of cordyceps regulated dopamine levels.
  • All doses of cordyceps extract interacted with a signaling pathway that is involved in stress regulation. 

Serotonin and dopamine are important neurotransmitters that play significant roles in regulating mood and stress responses. Serotonin is often referred to as the "feel-good" hormone. Imbalances in serotonin levels have been linked to depression and anxiety. Serotonin is also important for sexual desire, arousal, and satisfaction. 

Dopamine is associated with pleasure, reward, and motivation. It can influence sexual desire and drive, while inadequate dopamine levels can lead to a decrease in libido and sexual satisfaction.

As a functional mushroom, Cordyceps militaris has been associated with potential effects on neurotransmitters. Some studies suggest that cordyceps may help regulate serotonin and dopamine levels, potentially contributing to improved mood, stress reduction, and a healthier libido. 

Benefits of Cordyceps For Men

Cordyceps mushrooms offer several potential benefits for men. From increasing testosterone production to fighting prostate cancer, here’s why men should include cordyceps mushrooms into their everyday wellness routine:

  1. Increasing testosterone levels is vital for men’s overall health. 
  2. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of cordyceps fight testicular cancer, prostate cancer, and other types of carcinoma that affect men.
  3. Himalayan Viagra can increase sexual function and help men with erectile dysfunction. 
  4. Cordyceps’ cardiovascular benefits help improve blood circulation, which is crucial for achieving and maintaining erections. 
  5. Cordyceps may help boost exercise performance and stamina. That doesn’t only improve men’s athletic performance—it also helps them last longer in bed. 
  6. With elevated athletic performance comes an athletic body. Cordyceps may help with male and female muscle growth. Think about that the next time you sip on some boring herbal tea before workout. To get the best results for your body's definition, try a packet of our delicious cordyceps matcha tea.

Mushroom Matcha Box - 10 Compostable Packets

Benefits of Cordyceps For Women

Cordyceps offers more than a few benefits for women's health and well-being. These amazing medicinal mushrooms can do wonders for women in terms of fertility, sexual function, and overall health. 

  1. The adaptogenic prowess of cordyceps helps people cope with everyday stress and anxiety, which is exactly what all the working ladies, stay-at-home moms, and fierce goddesses need on a daily basis. Cordyceps mushrooms support the functioning of the adrenal glands and help keep those stress hormones in check. 
  2. Cordyceps militaris increases the chances of getting pregnant by boosting fertility, primarily in women (although clinical studies have shown that it may increase male fertility as well). 
  3. Cordyceps may help protect skin cells and reduce the signs of aging. Cordyceps is packed with antioxidants that help improve blood circulation, battle free radicals, and keep your skin looking fresh and radiant. 
  4. Cordyceps mushrooms can support your weight loss journey when combined with a healthy diet and exercise. According to research, it seems that cordyceps can aid weight loss by increasing the levels of adenosine triphosphate, a key component in energy production.
  5. As a powerful anticancer weapon, cordyceps may help women fight ovarian cancer. It seems to inhibit the growth and survival of cancer cells, promote cancer cell death, and inhibit ovarian cancer cell proliferation.

…C. militaris alone was able to inhibit tumor growth, with a slowdown in tumor growth. The combination of carboplatin and C. militaris triggered a strong tumor growth inhibition with slowing of tumor growth and an apparent decrease in tumor weight. (Jo, et. al.)

  1. Similarly, cordyceps can fight breast cancer. A bioactive compound in cordyceps called cordycepin has extraordinary antitumor properties. According to a  2019 study, cordycepin can inhibit breast cancer cell proliferation and induce apoptosis. 

The C. militaris concentrate and cordycepin exhibited the ability to induce apoptotic cell death by increasing the cleavage of caspase-7 -8, and -9, increasing the Bax/Bcl-2 protein expression ratio, and decreasing the protein expression of XIAP in MCF-7 cells.

What Is the Best Time to Take Cordyceps?

The best way to experience an invigorating energy boost is to take cordyceps in the morning or early afternoon. Taking cordyceps supplementation earlier in the day can enhance your energy levels and mental clarity without making you feel drowsy later in the day. 

Our tea also contains energy-increasing matcha, which can additionally boost your energy levels and add some extra oomph to your life, both in and out of the bedroom. Matcha gets its invigorating properties from caffeine, which makes drinking it too close to bedtime a bad idea. 

Don't wait any longer—indulge in the exquisite blend of cordyceps and matcha and unlock a world of heightened pleasure and passion.

Mushroom Matcha - 30 Serving Jar

Cordyceps and Libido FAQ

What is the best mushroom supplement for libido?

When it comes to mushroom supplements for libido, Cordyceps is often considered one of the best choices. Its use in traditional Chinese medicine and its reputation for supporting sexual health make it a popular option. Lion's mane and turkey tail are also worth considering, as they contribute to overall well-being, which can positively impact libido.

How does cordyceps make you feel?

One of the key effects of cordyceps is boosting energy and promoting mood. Cordyceps contains 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 in animal studies to have anti-anxiety and antidepressant characteristics, is one possible reason for this effect.

Who should avoid cordyceps? 

While cordyceps is generally considered safe for most people, individuals with autoimmune disorders, bleeding disorders, or those undergoing organ transplantation should consult with healthcare professionals before using cordyceps or any other supplements.

Is cordyceps stimulating?

Yes, cordyceps is often considered stimulating due to its potential to increase energy levels and physical stamina. It can support endurance and provide a natural boost, which may be beneficial for individuals seeking to enhance their vitality and engage in physical activities, including intimate moments.

How quickly does cordyceps work?

Some individuals may experience immediate benefits, such as increased energy and mental focus. For long-term benefits, you should be persistent and take cordyceps consistently over a period of weeks or months to fully experience its potential effects on libido and overall well-being.

Should I take cordyceps before bed?

Because of its energy-boosting properties, taking cordyceps close to bedtime might not be a good idea. Cordyceps may increase energy levels and promote wakefulness, which can interfere with sleep. It’s best to take cordyceps earlier in the day to enjoy its potential benefits without affecting your sleep quality.

What does cordyceps do for hormones?

Cordyceps has been associated with potential effects on hormonal balance. It may help support optimal levels of testosterone, estrogen, and other hormones in the body. However, the specific mechanisms and impacts of cordyceps on hormone regulation require further research to fully understand their effects.

Can cordyceps increase estrogen?

Cordyceps is not typically associated with directly increasing estrogen levels. However, by promoting overall hormonal balance, cordyceps may indirectly support estrogen regulation in the body. 

Does cordyceps have an impact on the adrenal gland?

Cordyceps has been traditionally associated with supporting adrenal health and function. The adrenal glands play a crucial role in producing hormones, including those involved in stress responses. Cordyceps' adaptogenic properties may help regulate adrenal function and promote a balanced stress response, indirectly influencing overall well-being and potentially impacting sexual health.

Resources

Kusama, K., Miyagawa, M., Ota, K., Kuwabara, N., Saeki, K., Ohnishi, Y., Kumaki, Y., Aizawa, T., Nakasone, T., Okamatsu, S., Miyaoka, H., & Tamura, K. (2020, December 26).Cordyceps militaris Fruit Body Extract Decreases Testosterone Catabolism and Testosterone-Stimulated Prostate Hypertrophy. MDPI. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13010050

Effect of Cordyceps militaris supplementation on sperm production, sperm motility and hormones in Sprague-Dawley rats - PubMed. (2008, January 1). PubMed. https://doi.org/10.1142/S0192415X08006296

Beneficial Effect of Cordyceps militaris on Exercise Performance via Promoting Cellular Energy Production - PubMed. (2020, November 9). PubMed. https://doi.org/10.1080/12298093.2020.1831135

Pohsa, S., Hanchang, W., Singpoonga, N., Chaiprasart, P., & Taepavarapruk, P. (2020, November 13).Effects of Cultured Cordycep militaris on Sexual Performance and Erectile Function in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Male Rats. PubMed Central (PMC). https://doi.org/10.1155/2020/4198397

Antidepressant-like effects of water extract of Cordyceps militaris (Linn.) Link by modulation of ROCK2/PTEN/Akt signaling in an unpredictable chronic mild stress-induced animal model. (2021, May 8). ScienceDirect. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2021.114194

Jang, D., Lee, E., Lee, S., Kwon, Y., Kang, K. S., Kim, C. E., & Kim, D. (2022, May 12).System-level investigation of anti-obesity effects and the potential pathways of Cordyceps militaris in ovariectomized rats - BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies. BioMed Central. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12906-022-03608-y

Jo, E., Jang, H. J., Yang, K. E., Jang, M. S., Huh, Y. H., Yoo, H. S., Park, J., Jang, I. S., & Park, S. J. (2020, January).Cordyceps militaris Exerts Antitumor Effect on Carboplatin-Resistant Ovarian Cancer via Activation of ATF3/TP53 Signaling In Vitro and In Vivo. Natural Product Communications, 15(1), 1934578X2090255. https://doi.org/10.1177/1934578x20902558

The Inhibitory Effect of Cordycepin on the Proliferation of MCF-7 Breast Cancer Cells, and its Mechanism: An Investigation Using Network Pharmacology-Based Analysis - PubMed. (2019, August 23). PubMed. https://doi.org/10.3390/biom9090407

Huang, H. S., Wu, H. Y., Chang, W. T., Lin, Y. E., Huang, Y. J., Lu, K. H., Lu, Y. S., Chen, M. H., & Sheen, L. Y. (2020, May 29).The Antidepressive and Anxiolytic Effects of Formula Consisted of Poria cocos and Cordyceps militaris Waster Medium Extract in Unpredictable Chronic Mild Stress Animal Model. PubMed Central (PMC). https://doi.org/10.1093/cdn/nzaa057_028

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