• What is Chinese Cordyceps?
• Cordyceps - Properties
• Cordyceps - Application
• Cordyceps - how to use it?
• Contraindications to the use of Chinese Cordyceps

Called the Chinese Cordyceps ( Cordyceps Sinensis ), it is a parasitic fungus known and valued in traditional Chinese medicine as a "miracle cure." Currently recognized as a superfood, meaning a food with a high content of nutrients beneficial to our body, it is valued for its immune-supporting effects. It is used, among other things, as an aid in the treatment of kidney, liver, and lung diseases. Let's take a closer look at this unassuming yet unusual mushroom, the Chinese Cordyceps, and examine when it is worth reaching for to take advantage of its health-promoting properties.

What is Chinese Cordyceps?

Cordyceps is a parasitic fungus that grows only in the mountainous regions of Tibet and Nepal at altitudes of three to five thousand meters above sea level. Because it is very rare and hard to find, it is considered even more valuable. The life cycle of the Chinese crayfish is completely unusual. In winter, it parasitizes underground in the larva of a moth of the Thitarodes family. In spring, when the snow melts, it begins to grow in a form resembling a miniature club, the size of a little finger, still hidden underground, and only grows as an independent fungus, emerging to the surface in the summer. It is extremely difficult to find, simply because of its small size, and it grows in completely extreme conditions. It is harvested by locals by hand. Due to its effects and rarity, the fungus is considered extremely valuable.

Cordyceps - Properties

Cordyceps is used to improve physical and mental well-being, as an energy booster, and as a treatment for aging and dementia. The health-promoting properties of this mushroom are primarily due to cordycepin, which, among other things, helps regulate circadian rhythms and has antidepressant effects. Research on this extremely interesting organism has confirmed that its regular use as a dietary supplement improves and normalizes levels of steroid hormones, including testosterone. In addition, Cordyceps also contains polysaccharides, biologically active ingredients, vitamins, and minerals. It also belongs to the group of plants and fungi called adaptogens. Adaptogens contain compounds that support body balance and reduce the effects of stress. Chinese macaroni extract stimulates the body's defense cells, called macrophages, to produce cytokines—proinflammatory substances that give Cordyceps an immune-stimulating effect. Therefore, its consumption as a dietary supplement is recommended in situations where we have reduced immunity, as well as during the fall and winter seasons. Laboratory studies have also shown its effectiveness against Staphylococcus aureus ( Staphylococcus aureus ).

Cordyceps - Application

The properties of this unassuming mushroom are primarily associated with improving the general condition of the body, strengthening immunity, cleansing toxins, and its anti-inflammatory effects. Cordyceps regulates hormones and the respiratory system. This mushroom has a holistic effect on our entire body and is recommended for people who participate in sports professionally, as it helps with the body's regeneration:

• regulates the circadian rhythm,
• prevents insomnia,
• improves well-being,
• Adds energy,
• anti-inflammatory effect,
• supports the immune system,
• Reducing the risk of autoimmune diseases,
• reduces the risk of allergic reactions,
• supports the work of the respiratory system,
• supports the regeneration of kidneys and liver,
• slows down the aging process,
• stimulates the production of white blood cells,
• improves blood circulation and oxygen supply to the tissue,
• normalizes sugar and cholesterol levels,
• positive effect on the intestinal bacterial flora,
• improves metabolism.

Cordyceps - how to use it?

Chinese clubfoot is often used by athletes because it improves endurance and overall physical performance. In Poland, it is available in capsule or powder form. The powder should be prepared into a drinking water solution. The dosage is indicated on the package. Typically, Cordyceps is used twice a day, depending on the supplement's dosage. It can be used prophylactically throughout the year, but the recommended dose should not be exceeded. The daily dose should not exceed 3 g. Since this supplement can have a stimulating effect, it is best taken in the morning. This helps maintain energy throughout the day.

Contraindications to the use of Chinese Cordyceps

There are few contraindications to taking Cordyceps. It should not be given to children under 12 years of age. Before starting supplementation with this product, they should exercise extreme caution and consult their doctor:

• pregnant and breastfeeding women,
• People taking blood sugar lowering medication,
• People with blood clotting disorders - Cordyceps can gently thin the blood.

Always remember that the introduction of any new dietary supplement should be consulted with a doctor.

This small and completely inconspicuous mushroom, Cordyceps, has been valued by traditional people for centuries and has recently been discovered by Western medicine. Today, there are ways to cultivate it in the laboratory, in bioreactors. A careful analysis of its composition showed that, due to the special growing conditions, it does not differ significantly from wild-bred mushrooms. Thanks to this, access to Cordyceps has become easier, and its price is definitely more affordable today. It is an ideal addition to our daily diet, helping us in our daily functioning, adding energy and providing additional protection against viruses and microorganisms. Especially during the difficult period of the autumn and winter season, when we are most susceptible to colds and illnesses, it is worth considering the use of Cordyceps.