Cordyceps sinensis is a minute fungus that sprouts out of caterpillar carcasses at high altitudes of the Tibetan plateau. [1] Considering that 95% of all fungi species still remain undiscovered, it's a wonder a small fungus from such a remote area is even described, let alone that it's managed to become one of the world's most popular medicinal fungi.
The highly improbable likelihood of fame from such humble origins may in and of itself indicate that, "surely there must be something to it."
Cordyceps sinensis has been used in China for two millennia to increase strength, stamina and vitality, and more specifically as an aphrodisiac. The earliest record is from 200 AD in the form of a Chinese book titled The Classic Herbal of the Divine Plowman. Modern science appears to confirm what Traditional Chinese Medicine tells us about this mushroom.
Later research in China and Japan has indicated that Cordyceps possesses important anti-tumor and immune stimulating properties. [4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12]
Four studies have indicated that Cordyceps may be useful in treating leukemia. [13, 14, 15, 16] The U.S. National Institute of Health began Phase I screening of the compound cordycepin in the treatment of leukemia in 2002.
In keeping with the use of Cordyceps as an aphrodisiac, a recent study reported a 64% improvement of erectile dysfunction. [17] Underlying these results may be the effect Cordyceps appears to have on blood vessel dilation and blood-flow. [18, 19]
Additional benefits of Cordyceps sinensis indicated by modern research include cholesterol regulation [20], kidney [21] and liver support (post-hepatitic cirrhosis). [22]
However, Cordyceps' popularity is primarily based on its effect on physical empowerment by helping to increase stamina and endurance. [23, 24, 25] Part of the explanation to this may be, as mentioned earlier, that it has an effect on improving blood-flow by dilating blood vessels. Another reason may be the similar effect it has on also helping to dilate respiratory passageways, which was demonstrated by two studies on bronchitis and asthma. [3, 26]
In 1993, Cordyceps made headlines when nine Chinese athletes gave it credit for the world records they set at that year's Chinese National Games. [27, 28]
Additionally, Cordyceps extract is rich in anti-oxidants, [29] polysaccharides, and many more recently discovered potentially therapeutic compounds, [8, 30, 31] plus undoubtedly a host of others yet to be discovered.
Last but not least, in his book Mycelium Running, foremost U.S. medicinal mushroom expert Paul Stamets also lists the following additional areas of potential usefulness for Cordyceps extract as indicated by scientific research: Anti-bacterial; anti-viral; blood pressure; nerve support (stress); lymphoma; lung cancer. [134]
Note: The statements on this page have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This article is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Always consult a licensed medical practitioner before using any herb (or mushroom) for medicinal purposes.
Credit to Paul Stamets for research and source material.
The highly improbable likelihood of fame from such humble origins may in and of itself indicate that, "surely there must be something to it."
Cordyceps sinensis has been used in China for two millennia to increase strength, stamina and vitality, and more specifically as an aphrodisiac. The earliest record is from 200 AD in the form of a Chinese book titled The Classic Herbal of the Divine Plowman. Modern science appears to confirm what Traditional Chinese Medicine tells us about this mushroom.
Later research in China and Japan has indicated that Cordyceps possesses important anti-tumor and immune stimulating properties. [4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12]
Four studies have indicated that Cordyceps may be useful in treating leukemia. [13, 14, 15, 16] The U.S. National Institute of Health began Phase I screening of the compound cordycepin in the treatment of leukemia in 2002.
In keeping with the use of Cordyceps as an aphrodisiac, a recent study reported a 64% improvement of erectile dysfunction. [17] Underlying these results may be the effect Cordyceps appears to have on blood vessel dilation and blood-flow. [18, 19]
Additional benefits of Cordyceps sinensis indicated by modern research include cholesterol regulation [20], kidney [21] and liver support (post-hepatitic cirrhosis). [22]
However, Cordyceps' popularity is primarily based on its effect on physical empowerment by helping to increase stamina and endurance. [23, 24, 25] Part of the explanation to this may be, as mentioned earlier, that it has an effect on improving blood-flow by dilating blood vessels. Another reason may be the similar effect it has on also helping to dilate respiratory passageways, which was demonstrated by two studies on bronchitis and asthma. [3, 26]
In 1993, Cordyceps made headlines when nine Chinese athletes gave it credit for the world records they set at that year's Chinese National Games. [27, 28]
Additionally, Cordyceps extract is rich in anti-oxidants, [29] polysaccharides, and many more recently discovered potentially therapeutic compounds, [8, 30, 31] plus undoubtedly a host of others yet to be discovered.
Last but not least, in his book Mycelium Running, foremost U.S. medicinal mushroom expert Paul Stamets also lists the following additional areas of potential usefulness for Cordyceps extract as indicated by scientific research: Anti-bacterial; anti-viral; blood pressure; nerve support (stress); lymphoma; lung cancer. [134]
Note: The statements on this page have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This article is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Always consult a licensed medical practitioner before using any herb (or mushroom) for medicinal purposes.
Credit to Paul Stamets for research and source material.
About the Author:
Dr. Markho Rafael has worked with natural health since finishing Chiropractic College in 1996. He currently specializes in medicinal fungi in partnership with the business Cordyceps Reishi Extracts, LLC. For scientific references to this article, go to the Extract of Cordyceps site, where you can also find Cordyceps Capsules and other medicinal fungi.
