Cordyceps Sinensis is a mushroom that grows on certain caterpillars in the high-altitude grasslands of China. It has been used in Chinese medicine to treat various health conditions, including respiratory and kidney disorders, fatigue, and low libido. More recently, these mushrooms have gained popularity as a dietary supplement due to its potential health benefits, such as improved athletic performance, enhanced immune function, and anti-aging effects. However, more research is needed to fully understand the possible effects and safety of cordyceps Sinensis. As with any dietary supplement, it is important to consult a healthcare provider before adding this to your routine.
Health Benefits of Cordyceps Sinensis
There are many potential health benefits associated with this fungus, but it is important to note that much of the research on this fungus is still in the early stages, and more studies are needed to understand its effects fully. Here are some of the potential health benefits of cordyceps Sinensis:
Improved Athletic Performance
Some research suggests that this improves physical endurance and exercise performance. Cordyceps Sinensis improves athletic performance by increasing the body’s ability to use oxygen and enhancing energy production. In a study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, healthy adults who took this mushroom supplement for six weeks showed significant improvements in exercise performance, including increased VO2 max (a measure of oxygen uptake) and reduced muscle fatigue.
Additionally, cordyceps mushrooms improve athletic performance by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the body. Inflammation and oxidative stress can cause muscle fatigue and damage, so reducing these factors helps enhance athletic performance.
Enhanced Immune Function
Cordyceps Sinensis enhances immune function by increasing the activity of immune cells, such as T cells and natural killer (NK) cells. These cells play a critical role in fighting off infections and diseases, so boosting their activity helps improve overall immune function.
In a study published in the journal Phytotherapy Research, researchers found that this mushroom extract increased the production of cytokines (molecules that help regulate immune function) in immune cells, indicating an immune-boosting effect. Another study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food found that cordyceps Sinensis extract improved immune function in mice by increasing the number and activity of NK cells.
Reduced Stress and Anxiety
It helps reduce stress and anxiety by promoting a sense of calm and relaxation. In a study published in Phytotherapy Research, researchers found that this extract reduced anxiety-like behaviours in mice exposed to stressful conditions.
Cordyceps Sinensis also has a calming effect on the central nervous system. In a study published in the Neuroscience Letters, researchers found that it improved sleep quality and reduced anxiety in rats.
Reduced Fatigue
It helps reduce fatigue by increasing energy production and reducing inflammation in the body. In a study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, healthy adults who took a cordyceps Sinensis supplement for six weeks showed significant improvements in energy levels and reductions in fatigue.
Additionally, it helps reduce fatigue by improving oxygen uptake and utilization in the body. In a study published in the journal PLoS One, researchers found that cordyceps Sinensis extract enhanced oxygen uptake and utilization in mice, leading to increased energy production.
Methods of Consuming Cordyceps
There are several ways to eat cordyceps, such as a powder, extract, tincture, or tablet. One common way to eat cordyceps is mushroom coffee.
According to Dennett, high-quality cordyceps in Australia should be dark brown, resembling dirt, and have an earthy, unpleasant scent.
“If it smells sweet, is light in colour, or bears the words ‘full spectrum, “mycelium, “or mycelial biomass,’ it likely contains little of the mushroom cap and stem, which are the components with potential advantages,” she says.
Your best option is to speak with a licensed dietitian nutritionist who can advise you on picking a high-quality product and how to consume food safely.