Cordyceps sinensis - The Athlete’s Mushroom
From high elevations of the Tibetan plateau comes a minute fungus known as Cordyceps sinensis. It parasitizes on caterpillars and sprouts out of their dead carcasses. [1] With 95% of the world’s mushroom species still undiscovered, it’s a small wonder that a tiny fungus from a remote and sparsely populated area is not only described but revered the world over as one of the most highly prized medicinal mushrooms on the planet.
The extreme unlikeliness of this remote, rare, and insignificant fungus’s claim to fame speaks volumes in and of itself as to its value and potency.
In China, Cordyceps sinensis has been treasured for 2,000 years as a vitalizing tonic and aphrodisiac. The oldest preserved written record of it stems from 200 A.D. and the book The Classic Herbal of the Divine Plowman. Contemporary research is beginning to reaffirm the traditional Chinese knowledge about this medicinal fungus.
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.
One clinical study on Cordyceps extract showed a 64% improvement in the sexual performance of men with sexual dysfunction. [17] The underlying reason for Cordyceps effect as an aphrodisiac may be that it appears to help increase blood-flow by dilating blood vessels. [18, 19]
Cordyceps extract also appears promising for cardio-vascular health by reducing cholesterol and acting as a general cardiotonic, [20] as well as aiding the kidneys [21] and liver (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]
Cordyceps made sports headlines in 1993 when a group of nine Chinese women credited the mushroom for their world records set at the Chinese National Games that year. [27, 28]
Cordyceps extract is a confirmed source of anti-oxidants, [29] polysaccharides, and a large host of other newly discovered nutritional compounds, [8, 30, 31] plus certainly many others that are 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. Never use any herb (or mushroom) except as advised by a licensed medical practitioner.
Credits: Thank you, Paul Stamets, for research references.