Thus far, research into the performance-enhancing effects of cordyceps has yielded mixed results . Cordyceps has long been used as a traditional treatment for diabetes in China. Cordyceps are believed to have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, both of which may help prevent or treat high blood pressure ( hypertension ). Preliminary studies suggest that cordyceps may offer protection against certain types of cancer.
Cordyceps is a fungus that grows out of the larval body of an insect at altitudes about 3800m to create a powerfully healing medicinal mushroom (though not technically a mushroom, most practitioners classify it under that heading). Mother Nature is truly incredible!
Cordyceps is a genus of parasitic fungi that grows on the larvae of insects. When these fungi attack their host, they replace its tissue and sprout long, slender stems that grow outside the host’s body.
Cordyceps / ˈ k ɔːr d ɪ s ɛ p s / is a genus of ascomycete fungi (sac fungi) that includes about 600 species. Most Cordyceps species are endoparasitoids, parasitic mainly on insects and other arthropods (they are thus entomopathogenic fungi); a few are parasitic on other fungi.
Yet another query we ran across in our research was “What is the scientific name of the fungus Cordyceps?”.
Cordyceps is actually the name of a genus of fungi, but there are an estimated 400 species within the genus. Some of the most notable species include Cordyceps sinensis, Cordyceps militaris and Cordyceps ophioglossoides.
Most Cordyceps species are endoparasitoids, parasitic mainly on insects and other arthropods (they are thus entomopathogenic fungi); a few are parasitic on other fungi.
What are the benefits of Cordyceps fungi?
The first people to discover the many benefits of cordyceps initially observed animals eating the wild fungus and growing strong in the process. Farmers and herders began to use the fungus in powder form to make tonics and teas. Some of the first uses for these tonics were increasing milk production and improving reproductive capacity of livestock.
The scientifically proven health benefits of cordyceps mushrooms on the entire body are vast, from increasing immune function to helping balance blood sugar. As adaptogens, cordyceps also help our body manage overall stress response and increase energy.
How does Cordyceps support kidney health?
One of the most well-researched areas of support and nourishment for cordyceps is its role in supporting kidney health, especially in cases of chronic kidney disease. The kidneys play a crucial role in detoxification and elimination, filtering the equivalent of roughly 180 liters of blood per day.
What are the health benefits of Cordyceps militaris?
On top of all of that, Cordyceps militaris can possibly help in neurite outgrowth stimulation, meaning it may benefit cognitive function and health! Cordyceps benefit our digestive organ function, including helping those suffering from damaged livers, for example.