Cordyceps Benefits

Cordyceps, also known as 'winter worm summer grass', is one of the rare and unique plants used in medicine. It was first discovered in the mountain ranges in southwest China, centuries ago and is a well-known ingredient in Chinese medicines. Cordyceps is actually a genus of ascomycete fungi, that comprises about 400 distinct species. The best known species of this genus, the Cordyceps sinensis, is known as medicinal mushroom, as it has a number of health benefits.

What are Cordyceps?

Cordyceps is a type of fungi or mushroom, that grows on the backs of caterpillar larvae, that are native to China, Tibet and Nepal. The chemical constituents of most of the cordyceps species include cordycepin and its derivatives, polysaccharides, ergosterol, a glycoprotein and peptides that contain alpha aminoisobutyric acid. Research shows that this unique chemical constitution of cordyceps can be effective against a variety of health conditions.

Health Benefits of Cordyceps

Cordyceps have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help in boosting the immune system and enhance the overall health of a person. Cordyceps are also known to have anti-tumor, anti-metastatic, anti-aging, antimicrobial, hypoglycemic, neuroprotective and renoprotective effects. Let us see the various benefits of cordyceps.

Diabetes
Cordyceps contains a particular polysaccharide, that has strong antioxidant properties and a hypoglycemic effect on the body. It helps in improving the glucose metabolism and increases the insulin sensitivity, thus proving effective in controlling diabetes.

Liver Health
Cordyceps is beneficial to maintain liver health. Studies show that cordyceps have the ability to adjust the T lymphocyte subsets level and are effective in treating hepatic fibrosis in those suffering from chronic hepatitis.

Kidneys
Cordycep increases the blood circulation to various parts of the body thus regulating their normal functions. It helps in strengthening the lungs and kidneys, increasing their energy and vitality and decreases hemorrhaging and phlegm. It strengthens the immune system and helps the body to fight against chronic kidney diseases.

Respiratory Functions
The anti-inflammatory properties of cordyceps, help the body to fight against cough, chronic bronchitis and asthma. It relaxes bronchial walls and thus enhances respiratory function.

Strength
Chinese athletes who regularly use cordyceps, tend to show better results than most other sportsmen. As cordyceps has antioxidant properties, it increases cellular formation. It soothes the nervous system, reduces anxiety and promotes more restful sleep, thus having fatigue reducing effects on the body.

Other Positive Effects of Cordyceps

• Cordyceps increase the number of cells that are responsible for fighting against most viruses and bacteria.
• They help in building muscles and thus improving physical performance.
• Cordyceps improve sexual function by stimulating the production of sex hormones.
• They enhance the cellular oxygen uptake of the body, that helps in enhancing the functions of all body systems.
• Cordyceps benefit the circulatory system by strengthening the heart muscles, regulating blood pressure and improving blood circulation.
• Cordycep acts a good tonic for bodily nourishments and also helps in stimulating brain activity.
• Cordyceps are known to have diuretic effect that helps in the prevention of nephralgia.
• They have great anti aging properties.
• Cordyceps help in improving memory.

Although cordyceps are natural and considered safe for use, they may have some side effects on the body. Hence, it is advisable to consume cordyceps only after consulting your health care provider.