CORDYCEPS: EFFECTS, ADVANTAGES AND USES
Cordyceps Sinensis is a caterpillar fungus that has been prized for centuries in China and Tibet for its exceptional healing and vitality. Cordyceps is now well-known throughout the world as a superfood, a natural food with particularly health-promoting properties.
Traditionally, Cordyceps is dried and prepared as tea; however, in this country, you can purchase Cordyceps capsules or powder. Cordyceps has numerous benefits and has traditionally been used to treat a wide range of medical conditions and physical issues, including liver and kidney disease, nausea, asthma, diabetes, fatigue, thyroid disorders, and even low sex drive or erectile dysfunction.
Cordyceps is also considered a true gift of nature in western medicine and alternative medicine. Here is a brief overview of Cordyceps effects and possible areas of application:
General effects of Cordyceps Sinensis
- has a strengthening and antioxidant effect
- has an antiviral and antibacterial effect
- strengthens the immune system
- has a detoxifying effect
- has a stimulating and revitalizing effect on the body and mind
- relieves pain (e.g. in arthrosis)
- promotes blood circulation and lowers blood pressure
- regulates stress hormones
- can lower blood fat and blood sugar levels that are too high
Special effects of Cordyceps on women and men
In addition to the effects already mentioned, Cordyceps should have a unique effect on both men and women. In Asia, the caterpillar mushroom has traditionally been used to help with potency issues and boost libido. Cordyceps is said to have an aphrodisiac effect in women (at a certain dosage) and is thus frequently used to relieve menopausal symptoms (including loss of libido and hot flashes). Cordyceps has been shown in preliminary studies to stimulate the release of estradiol in women, thereby counteracting a drop in estrogen levels. Although scientific evidence is lacking, many users swear by the beneficial effects of Cordyceps Sinensis on women. Cordyceps is particularly popular with women in combination with Reishi capsules or Reishi powder, which can bring relief from sleep problems and hot flashes during menopause.
The dosage of Cordyceps is critical depending on the goal and desired Cordyceps effect. High-quality Cordyceps products (e.g., Cordyceps capsules, Cordyceps powder, or other extracts) and their proper use can also reduce the risk of Cordyceps side effects. In the case of previous illnesses, the medicinal mushroom intake should always be discussed with the attending physician, in order to avoid potential interactions and rule out other medications.
In detail: Cordyceps effects on the psyche, thyroid, lungs and more
In addition to the benefits for the immune system, the positive effects of Cordyceps on the thyroid, lungs and psyche are still relatively unknown. Reliable scientific studies are still pending, but we don't want to withhold the general findings to date from you:
Cordyceps Effect on Psyche:
Centuries ago, the Chinese caterpillar mushroom was used as a natural antidepressant. Taking Cordyceps is said to improve the general mood and thus increase well-being. This effect of Cordyceps Sinensis is based on the very high content of amino acids from which the well-known happiness hormone serotonin is produced. One can assume that the Cordyceps' desire and libido-increasing effect is mainly due to this positive mood and emotional state.
Cordyceps effect on the immune system:
Cordyceps capsules and cordyceps powder are particularly popular due to their positive effect on the human immune system: anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antibacterial and protection against free radicals, which is why it is often used to prevent colds. In addition, the caterpillar fungus is said to stimulate the production of T cells. Various studies are therefore dealing with the potential of Cordyceps to slow down the growth of cancer cells and tumours. However, it should only be used in conjunction with and consultation with conventional medical therapies.
Cordyceps effect on the thyroid:
If you have an underactive thyroid, you should consider purchasing Cordyceps Sinensis. Anyone who has an underactive thyroid is familiar with the typical symptoms of listlessness, exhaustion, tiredness, and often a sad mood. Endocrinologists usually replace missing thyroid hormones with L-thyroxine, an artificial hormone. Thyroid levels should be checked on a regular basis, and dosages should be adjusted as needed. The concurrent use of Cordyceps, which can alleviate hypofunction symptoms, must be discussed in advance with the attending physicians. Furthermore, because Cordyceps has a stimulating and activating effect, it should not be taken in the evening or before going to bed.
Cordyceps effect on the lungs:
Cordyceps and other medicinal mushrooms boost the immune system. They have traditionally been used as complementary therapy for respiratory and cold diseases. It is said to relieve inflammation and cold symptoms, as well as strengthen lung function, especially in the case of lung diseases. Cordyceps can be used both therapeutically and preventively. In alternative medicine, the natural effect of Cordyceps is particularly appreciated in asthma, bronchitis, sinusitis, tonsillitis, and general cold symptoms. The combination with the Reishi mushroom is also recommended here: This relieves exhaustion caused by infections as well as chronic respiratory diseases and makes coughing up colds easier.
Cordyceps reviews
Particular attention is paid to the effect of Cordyceps capsules during sports, and increased stress in everyday life and in old age, since taking Cordyceps not only supports the immune system but also increases physical and mental performance due to the better energy supply to cells and the brain.
Many users swear by the effects of Cordyceps for high blood pressure and cholesterol issues. Patients with hypothyroidism experience less depression and have more energy if they take Cordyceps capsules or powder. A common use of Cordyceps for women: as a side effect, the caterpillar fungus boosts not only general well-being but also libido (especially when taken during menopause).
In addition to such rather positive side effects, there are of course also unwanted Cordyceps side effects. In order to avoid this as far as possible, it is important to observe the correct dosage of Cordyceps, discuss the manufacturer's information and (especially when taking medication and in the case of previous illnesses) the intake of Cordyceps and the respective dosage with the treating physicians.
Users give a particularly positive rating: Cordyceps capsules and Cordyceps powder from Raw Powders are suitable for vegan and vegetarian diets.
Sources:
https://www.zentrum-der-gesundheit.de/ernaehrung/lebensmittel/pilze-uebersicht/cordyceps
https://www.mykotroph.de/atemwegs-erkrankungen-besser-durchatmen-mit-vitalpilzen/
https://www.xbyx.de/magazin/vitalpilze-fuer-frauen-in-den-wechseljahren/
Textautor:
Kay Svegler
Communications, PR, American Studies, University of Leipzig
Journalist and freelance writer (e.g. Süddeutsche Zeitung, BILD, MDR etc.)
Former Senior PR Manager for Fischer Appelt, Sustainability and Diversity Manager for DKB