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Cordyceps 101

Cordyceps, a type of fungus, has a fascinating growth process. A parasitic fungi, Cordyceps Sinensis grows on insect larvae — caterpillars that live in high altitudes in Asia, such as the Himalayas. The fungi has long been popular in Chinese medicine. 

Cordyceps Mushroom

For a long time, cordyceps was reserved for the elite because of its difficulty to cultivate.

Wild harvested cordyceps currently can sell for $20,000 per pound.

Mycro cultivates Cordyceps Militaris, a fruiting body with almost five times as much cordycepin as the wild variant.

Improved exercise performance

While “cordyceps” sounds like the name of a muscle, it isn’t, but it’s close.

Athletes are starting to become interested in cordyceps because of how they contribute to exercise.

They may boost the production of adenosine triphosphate in the body, which helps to effectively deliver energy to the muscles.

Cordyceps are also credited with improving oxygen delivery, resulting in better athletic performance.

In a study, taking the supplement consistently for six weeks resulted in seven percent improvement in fitness levels.

Anti-aging benefits

Cordyceps is high in antioxidants, which remove free radicals from the system.

(Free radicals can contribute to aging and disease.)

Studies in mice have found that cordyceps can help to improve sexual function and memory, and lengthened lifespan.

Type 2 diabetes management

Cordyceps may help to keep blood sugar levels in the correct range with actions that mimic insulin’s role in the body, addressing the issue that defines type 2 diabetes.

Cordyceps Mushroom

Potential benefits for heart health

Adenosine, found in cordyceps, provides benefits that protect the heart.

The use of cordyceps has been suggested for patients with arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat) and found to reduce triglycerides and minimize heart injuries in rats with chronic kidney disease.

Cordyceps can also help to reduce the amount of LDL cholesterol, which causes buildup in the arteries.