Cordyceps militaris seems to have some powerful effects on sexual health. This unique mushroom species is bursting with bioactive substances revered for their extraordinary benefits for both men and women in the bedroom—if you know what we mean.
Article jumplinks:
Can cordyceps increase energy?
Does cordyceps increase testosterone?
Benefits of cordyceps for heart health
How can cordyceps help with obesity?
Does cordyceps have anticancer effects?
Does cordyceps support our immune system?
Are there dangers to taking cordyceps?
Can I take cordyceps every day?
The best time to take cordyceps
Cordyceps may help you sleep better, eat better, have clockwork digestion, and bring your entire body to a state of enhanced vitality. Check out the health benefits of cordyceps in our guide.
If you’d like to reap the rewards of cordyceps, there’s no better way to do it than with ourcordyceps matcha tea. It blends premium cordyceps mushrooms and Japanese matcha powder for an enhanced taste and an extraordinary fusion of benefits.
What Is Cordyceps Militaris?
Cordyceps militaris is a fungus in the genus Cordyceps, which has over 600 species. Two of the best-known and most investigated cordyceps types are Cordyceps militaris and Cordyceps sinensis. Our mushroom tea is made with the best organic Cordyceps militaris mushrooms grown on a farm in Lishui, Zhejiang Province, China.
There are some minor differences in their chemical composition and benefits, so make sure to get ahead of the differences and similarities between Cordyceps militaris and Cordyceps sinensis.
Cordyceps has a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine since its discovery long ago in the Himalayas. As an adaptogen, this phenomenal mushroom can help your body adapt to stress and improve your overall health.
Cordyceps and its product have remarkable clinical health effects including action on hepatic, renal, cardiovascular, respiratory, nervous, sexual, immunological systems, besides having anti-cancer, anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial activities. (Tuli, et. al.)
Cordyceps mushrooms contain many bioactive substances that provide diverse therapeutic effects.These components in cordyceps work synergistically to unleash extraordinary benefits for sexual health.
- Adenosine is known for its vasodilatory properties; it promotes healthy blood circulation. Normal blood flow to the genital area is essential for robust sexual function.
- Cordycepin boosts energy levels and combats fatigue, providing the stamina needed for satisfying intimate experiences.
- Polysaccharides have immunomodulatory effects that help fight oxidative damage and reduce inflammation and stress, all of which can have a significant impact on sexual and reproductive health.
- Ergosterol, a precursor to vitamin D, contributes to hormonal balance and supports reproductive health in both men and women.
- The presence of nucleosides and nucleobases, such as cytosine, uracil, thymine, adenine, and guanine, further enhances sexual health by promoting cellular regeneration and supporting the body's natural processes.
- Tryptophan, an essential amino acid, aids in the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter associated with mood regulation and pleasure, fostering a positive and fulfilling sexual experience.
But how exactly does cordyceps promote sexual well-being in men and women? It’s time to reveal the wizard behind the curtain.
Benefit 1: Cordyceps Increases Energy and Stamina
Cordyceps has been revered for its ability to boost energy levels in men and women. This makes it an ideal ally for those seeking to elevate their sexual performance. Apparently, cordyceps improves the efficiency of cellular energy production, fights fatigue, and allows you to experience heightened endurance and vitality during intimate encounters.
But don’t take our word for it. Let’s look at science.
A 2020 research article discovered that cordyceps can replenish energy by distributing energy molecules to our cells. It aids adenosine triphosphate (ATP) generation in mitochondrial cells, which further improves cellular functions and helps release energy more efficiently.
Cordyceps also seems to enhance exercise performance by increasing oxygen absorption.
The ability to absorb oxygen from the blood quickly and efficiently during exercise is an essential measure of endurance and aerobic capacity.
Benefits to aerobic performance with cordyceps supplement may be attributed to enhanced blood flow and oxygen utilization, by increasing vasodilation and metabolic efficiency. Enhanced oxygen delivery and utilization may increase exercise tolerance, raising the anaerobic threshold and delaying the onset of fatigue. (Hirsch, et. al.)
Regular physical activity and maintaining an optimal level of fitness are important for your sex life. Consider the possibilities: heightened endurance, elevated energy levels, and a newfound sense of vitality pulsating through your veins. If taking cordyceps elevates your fitness game, what do you think it’ll do for your libido?
Benefit 2: Cordyceps Boosts Libido in Men and Women
Did you know that cordyceps is dubbed “Himalayan Viagra”? The bioactive compounds in cordyceps promote sexual vitality and optimize sexual functioning. Cordyceps can be a natural and holistic approach to boosting sexual desire and improving overall sexual performance.
In men, cordyceps has shown potential for increasing testosterone levels, a hormone essential for sexual function and libido. Healthy testosterone production helps reignite sexual desire, improve erectile function, and enhance overall sexual performance.
For women, cordyceps supports hormonal balance, particularly estrogen levels. Estrogen plays a crucial role in maintaining sexual desire and lubrication, so by promoting hormonal equilibrium, cordyceps can enhance libido and improve sexual satisfaction in women. However, research on the effects of cordyceps on estrogen is limited.
We believe cordyceps has positive effects on both male and female libido. Indulge in the tantalizing fusion of premium cordyceps mushrooms and Japanese matcha, meticulously crafted to create a sexual tonic like no other.Our cordyceps matcha tea may help you unlock a world of enhanced passion and desire.
Benefit 3: Cordyceps and Testosterone Levels
Some studies suggest that cordyceps mushrooms may increase testosterone levels. As an adaptogen, cordyceps not only regulates our body’s response to stress but also greatly contributes to the production and regulation of hormones, particularly testosterone.
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
- The development and maintenance of sexual characteristics
- Muscle mass
- Bone density
- Production of sperm cells, including their quantity and quality
- Sexual function
- Fertility
One study found that a Cordyceps militaris fruiting body can regulate levels of testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone derived from testosterone, in male rats.
…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. (Kusama, et. al.)
Kusama, et. al. reveal beneficial effects of the cordyceps fruiting body on late onset hypogonadism (LOH) and benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH) in male rats. Late onset hypogonadism is caused by a decline in androgens (a group of hormones that play a crucial role in the development and functioning of male characteristics), like testosterone. Benign prostate hyperplasia is an enlargement of the prostate gland that often leads to urinary issues or prostate cancer.
Adifferent study investigated the effects of cordyceps on testosterone levels and sperm count in 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.
The results suggest that cordyceps mushrooms increased the number of sperm cells in the rats’ epididymis (a part of the male reproductive system where sperm are stored). This increase was observed in the 5th week of supplementation and peaked in the 6th week. More importantly, the improved sperm count was maintained for 2 weeks after the cordyceps supplement. This indicates that cordyceps might be able to help with infertility in men and keep men’s reproductive health in check.
Benefit 4: Cordyceps Is Good For the Heart
A healthy cardiovascular system plays a vital role in sexual function for men and women. The connection between cardiovascular health and sexual function lies in the intricate relationship between blood flow, circulation, lower blood pressure, and the physiological responses involved in sexual arousal and performance.
Cordyceps can improve blood circulation and increase oxygen delivery throughout the body. Research suggests that cordyceps “could increase the blood flow of the heart and brain, improve microcirculation, and stabilize blood pressure.” By helping blood vessels relax and widen, cordyceps boosts circulation and regulates blood pressure. Improved blood flow and circulation to the genital area are vital for erectile function in men and heightened sensitivity in women.
Read more aboutthe beneficial effects of cordyceps on blood pressure.
Benefit 5: Cordyceps Against Obesity and Diabetes
Cordyceps contains compounds that can assist in weight management. It seems to have some anti-obesity properties and may aid weight loss by increasing levels of ATP and boosting energy production. Cordyceps extracts also promote gut health and improve digestive function. This may be another way these magical mushrooms aid weight management and immune functioning.
Among Cordyceps, Cordyceps militaris has been reported to prevent metabolic syndromes including obesity and benefit the reproductive hormone system, suggesting that Cordyceps militaris can also regulate obesity induced by the menopause. (Jang, et. al.)
While you may think all this is unrelated to healthy libido and sexual activity,obesity can have a significant impact on sexual health in men and women. Excess body weight and fat accumulation can disrupt key physiological processes, leading to a range of health issues related to reproductive health and sexual functioning.
In both men and women, obesity has been linked to decreased sexual desire and libido. It can disrupt hormonal balance and cause a variety of effects that dampen male and female sexual health, including an irregular menstrual cycle, infertility, diminished libido, and imbalances in testosterone and estrogen.
Obesity often goes hand in hand with a more serious health condition: diabetes. Diabetes can have a detrimental impact on sexual health in several ways:
- Diabetes can cause damage to blood vessels and nerves, particularly those that supply the penis. This damage can lead to difficulties in achieving and maintaining an erection, leading to erectile dysfunction (ED).
- High blood sugar levels can disrupt the natural moisture balance in the vagina. Women with diabetes may experience decreased vaginal lubrication, leading to discomfort or pain during sexual intercourse.
- Diabetes can affect sexual desire in men and women. It causes fluctuations in hormone levels, including testosterone and estrogen.
- Nerve damage caused by diabetes (diabetic neuropathy) can lead to decreased sensitivity in the genitals. This can affect the ability to experience sexual pleasure and achieve orgasm.
One study on streptozotocin-induced diabetic male rats showed that a cordyceps extract improved the quality of sperm, increased the levels of testosterone, and improved their sexual behavior.
The results indicated that CM treatment in STZ-induced diabetic rats significantly improved the epididymal sperm parameter and serum testosterone level and, in turn, their copulatory behavior. CM treatment in diabetic rats significantly ameliorated malondialdehyde level and significantly improved the glutathione and catalase levels.
These findings suggest thatCordyceps militaris has potential beneficial effects on sexual health in male rats with diabetes. Learn more aboutthe anti-diabetic mechanisms of cordyceps.
We can’t promise you’ll drastically lose weight with our cordyceps matcha tea, but it may help you on your journey towards a healthier lifestyle, weight management, and even potential benefits for sexual performance and erectile function. Our unique blend offers a refreshing and satisfying beverage that can be incorporated into your daily routine.
Benefit 6: Cordyceps and Its Anticancer Properties
Cordyceps exhibits potent anticancer properties. In the lab, cordyceps has inhibited the growth of lung, colon, skin, and liver cancer cells. According to one study, “treatment with the [cordyceps] extract decreased cellular proliferation, induced cell cycle arrest at G0/G1 and increased apoptosis.”
Studies on ovarian cancer confirms the pro-apoptotic benefits of cordyceps mushrooms. Researchers found that “C. militaris inhibited ovarian cancer cell proliferation, survival, and migration, possibly through the coordination between TNF-α/TNFR1 signaling and NF-κB activation.”
CME reduced the viability of cells in a dose-dependent manner and induced morphological changes. We confirmed the decrease in the migration activity of SKOV-3 cells after treatment with CME and the consequent induction of apoptosis... The decrease in the expression levels of B cell lymphoma (Bcl)-xL and Bcl-2 led to a marked increase in cell apoptosis. (Lee, et. al.)
To put it more simply, when ovarian cancer cells were treated with Cordyceps militaris extract (CME), their ability to multiply and spread decreased. CME induced apoptosis, which caused the cancer cells to die. This was partly due to a decrease in the levels of certain proteins (Bcl-xL and Bcl-2) that are important for cell survival.
Further research into the anticancer properties of this powerful functional mushroom has revealed that cordyceps has properties that could aid in the treatment of testicular cancer.
…cordycepin (3′-deoxyadenosine) selectively induced apoptosis in MA-10 mouse Leydig tumor cells through regulating the p38 MAPK and PI3K/AKT signaling pathways. Cordycepin reduced viability in MA-10, TM4 and NT2/D1 cells… [and] increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, which is associated with the induction of [cancer cell death]. (Pan, et. al.)
Testicular cancer affects the testicles, where testosterone and sperm are produced. Often, in testicular cancer patients, levels of testosterone drop drastically, as the tumor may disrupt normal testicular function. Low testosterone is not good for healthy sexual function in men; it’s not good for their sexual performance and erectile function, and it's definitely not good for libido.
By potentially inhibiting the growth or progression of testicular and ovarian cancer, cordyceps may help preserve the functionality and integrity of the ovaries and testes. This can be important for fertility and overall sexual health.
Benefit 7: Cordyceps Supports the Immune System
A robust immune system is vital for overall well-being, including sexual health. Cordyceps possesses immuno-modulatory properties, enhancing the body's natural defense mechanisms. It stimulates immune cell activity, strengthens the immune response, and exhibits potent anti-inflammatory effects, reducing the risk of chronic inflammation-related issues that can impair sexual function.
One randomized, double-blind clinical trial found that adding cordyceps to your diet can improve immune functioning and protect you from oxidative stress. Remember the study on erectile function in streptozotocin-induced diabetic male rats? Apart from showing great results in fighting diabetes and improving erectile function, treatment with Cordyceps militaris helped reduce oxidative stress in the testicles.
Oxidative stress occurs when there’s an imbalance of free radicals (harmful molecules) and antioxidants in the body. This can damage tissues and organs and lead to decreased libido and impaired sexual function. Malondialdehyde is a harmful molecule that damages the body. The study also found that cordyceps reduced the levels of malondialdehyde in the diabetic rats, indicating a decrease in oxidative stress in their testes.
On the other hand, glutathione and catalase are antioxidants that help protect cells from oxidative damage. In the study, cordyceps mushrooms increased the levels of these protective substances in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats, suggesting the antioxidant properties of cordyceps that protect men’s reproductive organs from the harmful effects of oxidative stress.
Along with oxidative damage, chronic inflammation impedes sexual vitality. Inflammation can interfere with normal physiological processes and contribute to erectile dysfunction, vaginal dryness, or pain during intercourse. Cordyceps contains bioactive compounds with potential anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation in the body, including the reproductive organs, promoting healthier sexual function.
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. The results of the review concluded that cordycepin from Cordyceps militaris “enhanced immunity, inhibited the proliferation of viral RNA, and suppressed cytokine storms.”
We can’t say that it’s a coincidence that we paired cordyceps with matcha in our fragrant tea blend. Matcha also packs some serious antioxidant action, fighting oxidative stress, kicking free radicals’ butt, and healing inflammation left and right. This dynamic duo of cordyceps and matcha in our 30-serving jar may just add a little extra "oomph" to your romantic escapades.
Side Effects of Cordyceps
While cordyceps mushrooms are generally regarded as safe for the majority of people, certain groups may experience potential side effects.
- People who are allergic to mushrooms or have a history of allergic responses to other types of fungi.
- People who suffer from bleeding disorders or are using blood-thinning medication (taking cordyceps may increase the risk of bleeding).
- If pregnant or breastfeeding.
These effects are typically mild and go away within a day or two. If you have any concerns before starting your cordyceps journey, turn to your healthcare practitioner for medical advice.
Can I Take Cordyceps Every Day?
There’s no reason why you shouldn’t enjoy a cup of cordyceps tea every day. The longer you consume cordyceps, the greater the impact it’ll have on your health. The recommended dosage of cordyceps is 1–3 grams a day, which makes our 3.5 g-packets of cordyceps powder perfect for whipping up tea every morning.
The Best Time to Take Cordyceps
If you take your cordyceps supplement in the morning or early afternoon, you’ll experience an invigorating boost in energy and focus. Consuming cordyceps earlier in the day can enhance your energy levels and mental clarity without making you feel drowsy later in the day.
Don’t forget that our tea also contains matcha, another energy booster that can elevate your energy to new heights. Because matcha contains caffeine, drinking it too close to bedtime might be a bad idea, even if you’re after late night adventures with your partner. Regular consumption of our cordyceps tea in the morning will keep you elevated all day while feeling refreshed and ready to conquer the evening.
Don't let concerns about your sexual performance hold you back from the satisfying intimate moments you desire. Our matcha mushroom powder offers a convenient and delicious way to enjoy the benefits of this unique blend and promote sexual wellness.
Cordyceps FAQ
What does cordyceps do for males?
Cordyceps may offer several benefits for males, including potential enhancements in sexual function, increased energy levels, hormonal balance support, and improved blood circulation. These effects can contribute to overall well-being and sexual health in men.
Feel free to explore the cordyceps mushroom benefits for the ladies, too.
Does cordyceps help with erectile dysfunction?
Cordyceps has been traditionally used as an herbal medicine to address sexual dysfunctions, including decreased libido and erectile dysfunction. Some studies suggest that cordyceps may help improve penile erection and enhance erectile function.
Should I take cordyceps before bed?
Cordyceps is generally considered safe to consume at any time of the day. However, it contains energizing properties that may boost energy levels. Therefore, if you are sensitive to stimulants or experience difficulty falling asleep after consuming energizing substances, it may be best to avoid taking cordyceps close to bedtime.
Does cordyceps increase blood flow?
Cordyceps has been suggested to potentially promote blood flow by improving circulation. Increased blood flow can have positive effects on various aspects of health, including sexual function, exercise performance, and overall vitality.
What should I avoid when taking cordyceps?
When taking cordyceps, it is generally recommended to avoid excessive consumption of stimulants, as cordyceps itself can provide an energy boost. If you have specific medical conditions or are taking certain medications, consult with a healthcare practitioner to ensure there are no contraindications or potential interactions.
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.
Cordyceps may also provide a sense of increased energy and vitality. It has been described by some individuals as helping to reduce brain fog and improve overall mental clarity. This would mean that cordyceps is extremely beneficial for brain health.
What are the benefits of taking cordyceps daily?
Taking cordyceps daily may offer various benefits. These can include increased energy levels, potential improvements in sexual function, support for hormonal balance, potential enhancement of exercise performance, and overall well-being.
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 traditional use in traditional Chinese medicine and its reputation for supporting sexual health make it a popular option. Medicinal herbs and plants have long been used in traditional medicine to address sexual dysfunctions and enhance libido. These practices often combine a holistic approach, taking into account various factors affecting sexual health, including physical, emotional, and mental well-being.
Lion's mane and turkey tail are also worth considering, as they offer various health benefits that indirectly contribute to overall well-being, which can positively impact libido. Lion's mane is a potent medicinal mushroom that supports brain health and cognitive function and can potentially contribute to increased sexual desire. Turkey tail, a medicinal mushroom rich in polysaccharides and antioxidants, has been studied for its immune-enhancing properties. While not specifically targeting libido, a healthy immune system is vital for overall well-being, and improved general health can positively influence sex drive.
Resources
Tuli, H. S., Sandhu, S. S., & Sharma, A. K. (2013, February 19).Pharmacological and therapeutic potential of Cordyceps with special reference to Cordycepin. PubMed Central (PMC). https://doi.org/10.1007/s13205-013-0121-9
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
Hirsch, K. R., Smith-Ryan, A. E., Roelofs, E. J., Trexler, E. T., & Mock, M. G. (2016, July 13).Cordyceps militaris improves tolerance to high intensity exercise after acute and chronic supplementation. PubMed Central (PMC). https://doi.org/10.1080/19390211.2016.1203386
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
A study of the aphrodisiac properties of Cordyceps militaris in streptozotocin-induced diabetic male rats - PubMed. (2021, February 1). PubMed. https://doi.org/10.14202/vetworld.2021.537-544
System-level investigation of anti-obesity effects and the potential pathways of Cordyceps militaris in ovariectomized rats - PubMed. (2022, May 12). PubMed. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12906-022-03608-y
Cordyceps militaris (L.) Link Fruiting Body Reduces the Growth of a Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Cell Line by Increasing Cellular Levels of p53 and p21 - PubMed. (2015, July 31). PubMed. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules200813927
Anti-cancer effect of Cordyceps militaris in human colorectal carcinoma RKO cells via cell cycle arrest and mitochondrial apoptosis - PubMed. (2015, July 4). PubMed. https://doi.org/10.1186/s40199-015-0117-6
Pan, B. S., Wang, Y. K., Lai, M. S., Mu, Y. F., & Huang, B. M. (2015, August 25).Cordycepin induced MA-10 mouse Leydig tumor cell apoptosis by regulating p38 MAPKs and PI3K/AKT signaling pathways - Scientific Reports. Nature. https://doi.org/10.1038/srep13372
Jung, S. J., Jung, E. S., Choi, E. K., Sin, H. S., Ha, K. C., & Chae, S. W. (2019, March 29).Immunomodulatory effects of a mycelium extract of Cordyceps (Paecilomyces hepiali; CBG-CS-2): a randomized and double-blind clinical trial - BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies. BioMed Central. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12906-019-2483-y
Anti-inflammatory effects of cordycepin: A review - PubMed. (2020, October 8). PubMed. https://doi.org/10.1002/ptr.6890
Hone FDA & Legal Disclaimer
Our products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. They are not a replacement for prescription medications and have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
The information provided on this website does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice or medical advice. Any information, content, and materials available on this site are for general informational purposes only, and are not intended to be relied upon for any purpose.
Readers of this website should contact their attorney to obtain advice with respect to any particular legal matter including decisions on what products are, or are not, legal to sell, possess, or consume. No reader, user, or browser of this site should act or refrain from acting on the basis of information on this site without first seeking advice from their healthcare provider.