Cordyceps Mushroom and Its Unique Energizing Benefits

Cordyceps mushroom extract happens to be one consumed for its many special energizing attributes which we will soon discuss.

The original wild Cordyceps sinensis (also called Ophiocordyceps sinensis) is native to the Tibetan Plateau, usually growing above 11,500 feet (3,500 meters) in elevation. In ancient times it was highly sought after and very expensive.

Once known as "caterpillar fungus", this cordyceps species actually mycelium-mummifies dead insects as food to produce long fruiting bodies.

Today, in the world of cordyceps supplements, a lab-grown strain of the original wild Cordyceps sinensis called CS-4 is now grown on a wood or grain source, not insect remains.

Most available supplements are extract powders or liquids using C. sinensis and/or another highly potent strain called Cordyceps militaris. This species is also cultivated on a grain substrate like brown rice, sorghum or oats.

Consequently, both types don't contain insect parts and are 100 percent vegan.

Cordyceps mushroom, when taken in supplement form, is known for its powerful ability to help the body utilize oxygen more efficiently and therefore increases cellular energy production.

One of the major components responsible for this is a compound referred to as CORDYCEPIC ACID. This is D-mannitol, a sugar alcohol that acts as an energy reservoir in the mushroom.

In humans, it can exhibit an anti-inflammatory influence, especially in the bronchial airways and is one of the reasons cordyceps is considered a #1 tonic for the lungs and respiratory system.

In addition, the CORDYCEPIN and POLYSACCHARIDES in cordyceps are likewise shown to have this effect because they can enhance one's VO₂ max or the maximum amount of oxygen used during intense exertion. 

In the high mountainous regions of the Himalayas, Tibet and Bhutan, cordyceps has been consumed to help the body adapt to extreme elevations with lower overall oxygen levels, cooler temperatures and increased atmospheric pressure.

It is therefore an often-prescribed preventative and folk remedy for altitude sickness in similar locations.

Cordyceps mushroom supplementation is also highly valued as a natural stimulant for reducing the feelings of fatigue for overlapping reasons we just discussed.

But in addition, cordycepin, the primary bioactive compound, works as an indirect precursor of ATP production. Cordycepin (3'-deoxyadenosine) is a derivative of the nucleoside adenosine, which is an essential building block of ATP, the body's main energy currency.

In the body, cordycepin gets converted to cordycepin monophosphate (an AMP analog), which signals Cellular Energy Sensor Activation (AMPK).

In Chinese herbalism, it is believed to help increase the flow of Chi (Qi) due to unhindered oxygen uptake, which energizes cells and "activates life energies".

Likewise, cordyceps is commonly regarded as an adaptogen and kidney Jing tonic.

Jing is associated with the body's energy foundation or deepest lifeforce reserve. Some liken it to a rechargeable battery that you're born with. When nourished over time, physical strength and deep vitality can be restored.

Regular cordyceps mushroom supplementation can greatly assist modern-day adrenal burnout and help to replenish one's energy backup system.

Similar to creatine, ATP-promoting cordyceps extracts work on a physical level by increasing the energy fuel supply to the muscles.

As a result, it is the top functional mushroom that's well-utilized as an ergogenic aid (*) by the worldwide bodybuilding and strength training community.

Supplements are traditionally used for increasing physical stamina because of its mentioned benefits on maximizing oxygen uptake (VO₂ max) during high-intensity weightlifting or excercise regimens.

Consequently, this attribute allows for improved endurance capacity with less fatigue from lactic acid buildup.

Additionally, it is also known to speed up recovery times, improving post-workout muscle repair.

Prepared cordyceps powders can be added to protein shakes as a pre-workout beverage.

Cordyceps mushroom is a historically recognized top tonic for increasing one's sex drive among the people of Tibet, Nepal and China.

As discussed on our Ancient Natural Aphrodisiacs, Part I page, cordyceps mushroom extracts can help to support sexual functions in both men and women.

As a major Jing herb, it offers a revitalizing influence on the sex glands and reproductive system.

Again, the main bioactive compound in cordyceps mushroom is CORDYCEPIN, works to enhance blood flow to the genitals as a vasodilator. This surge of blood is vital for generating and maintaining erections in men and increasing arousal and lubrication in women.

For supplemental use, Cordyceps militaris and/or sinensis is most effective when consumed as an extract powder or liquid.

Cordyceps mushroom and its complex long-chain polysaccharides help to activate immune functions. The major types are beta-glucans, mannans and galactans linked together with highly branched side chains.

The cordycepin compound has also been studied and found to have therapeutic potential as an antiviral agent. 

Cordyceps as an ADAPTOGEN is likewise double-directional, meaning that is can either stimulate a sluggish immune system or calm an overactive one.

Regular use of cordyceps extracts (liquid or powder) can slowly help to rebuild immune defenses over a period of time.

Not only does the use of cordyceps mushroom act as a natural stimulant on a physical level, it also works on a cognitive one.

Constituents like cordycepin, and its ability to support a higher VO₂ max, can stimulate cognition by pumping more oxygen to the brain and help to fight mental fatigue.

As an adaptogen, it helps the body adapt to mental stress as well as physical tension.

For greatest bioavailability, cordyceps mushroom needs to be heated, tinctured or extracted to release its beneficial nutrients and compounds.

We recommend for highest effectiveness using a prepared extract of cordyceps rather than a dried ground powder made directly from the fruiting body or mycelium.

Supplement brands will usually indicate whether it is an extract, either a powder or liquid solution.

The straight dried powders can, however, be added to soups or other hot liquids to release the mushrooms healthful constituents.