Chinese cordyceps mushroom uses. Cordyceps treatment - everything you need to know
Jul-3-2017
What the cordyceps mushroom is, its medicinal properties and uses, photos and descriptions, all this is of great interest to those who lead a healthy lifestyle, monitor their health, and are interested in traditional methods of treatment, including those using mushrooms. So we will try to answer these questions in the following article.
Surprisingly, it is quite widespread throughout the world. Sometimes a person may simply not pay attention to it, although in fact there is a mushroom under his feet. The population is determined by an impressive number of insects, which the fungus uses for its own growth.
Cordyceps is formed when the fungus infects caterpillars, flies or ants with its spores, falling on the hairy surface in the autumn season, and germinates during the winter. When spring comes, by that time it manages to completely kill and mummify a caterpillar or other insect, germinating and showing its long, slender fruiting body above the ground.
The fruiting body, consisting of the remains of the insect and the fungal body itself, is collected by hand, dried and preserved for use as a medicine.
In traditional Asian medicine and Chinese medicine, Cordyceps has been used for centuries, and only recently has Western medicine taken notice of its incredible benefits.
Cordyceps armed.
Family: Ergots (Clavicipitaceae).
Synonyms: military cordyceps.
Photo and description of cordyceps mushroom:
Cordyceps is widespread throughout the world, however, the genus exhibits the greatest species diversity in tropical regions.
Some members of the genus are especially famous due to their influence on the behavior of the insects on which they develop.
Spores that land on the insect's hairy surface germinate and penetrate the insect's body or grow into an underground fungus. The insect or butterfly larva dies, and full-fledged hyphae of the cordyceps mycelium develop in the body, after which fruiting occurs.
The pharmaceutical value of military cordyceps consists of cordycepin, mannitol, adenine, adenosine, peptides and polysaccharides, and other trace elements. Mannitol, for example, removes free radicals from the body, plays the role of an antioxidant, slows down tissue aging, and increases the ability to regenerate cells. Various dietary supplements are produced from the mycelium, the action of which is aimed at activating the immune system and stimulating the ability to regenerate tissue.
Cordyceps mycelium has been used in Chinese medicine for 5,000 years.
The tissues of insects killed by this fungus are not colonized by bacteria and do not decompose. This is due to the formation of the natural antibiotic cordycepin by the fungus, which is secreted into the tissue of the host insect and protects the substrate from colonization by microorganisms.
According to the documentary film “L’or brun du Tibet” (“The New Gold of the Himalayas”, France, 2008), the product’s current high popularity in China arose after the victory in 1993 of two Chinese track and field athletes using the Cordyceps drug. Due to the high demand in the Chinese market and the cost reaching 25,000 euros per 1 kg, in 2008 it became extremely difficult to buy real Cordyceps of Tibetan origin, and the market was flooded with imitations and fakes of other geographical races and species of Cordyceps, including poisonous varieties that cause severe poisoning and causing undoubted harm to health.
Advisor to the 2012 Chinese Olympic table tennis team, Guo Yuehua, said that China won gold in the team championship thanks to the active use of cordyceps.
By the way, the famous Tibetan cordyceps, also known as Chinese cordyceps (C. sinensis), is nothing more than another geographical race of armed cordyceps. Simply due to a combination of unique natural factors (highlands, moisture, climate, local butterfly species), the Tibetan race is the most bioactive.
Description:
The fruit body is complex in shape, 2–6 cm in height and 3–10 mm thick, orange, orange-red at the top, less often purple, tuberculate-club-shaped, tapering upward. May be solitary or growing in a group. Fruiting bodies develop from a dense mass of mycelium filling the host body (endosclerotia or pseudosclerotia). The spore-forming bags are located in bottle-shaped formations, similar to the caps of carnations on the surface of the “club,” which protrude slightly above its surface. The stalk (the lower part of the fruiting body) is smooth, lighter, from whitish to orange-red. The pulp is whitish, fibrous, without much taste or smell. In general, the size, shape of fruiting bodies and the intensity of their color are very variable and depend on the size of the affected insect and habitat conditions.
The fungus develops on butterfly pupae buried in the soil (very rarely on other insects) in forests. Mature fruiting bodies with spores ready to spread await prey in the manner of hunters. When a caterpillar approaches (the fungus senses it tens of meters away), they release spores, which, like homing missiles, head straight for the unfortunate larva, sticking to its skin with suction cups. The spores then dissolve the caterpillar's cover and penetrate living tissue.
The caterpillar survives until winter without feeling any signs of infection. In winter, when it burrows into the ground and prepares to become a pupa by spring, the mycelium begins to act. It grows into the caterpillar and sucks nutrients from it; the mycelium fills the caterpillar’s body almost entirely, which leads to its death. In summer, a single or branched cordyceps fruiting body grows from the breathing holes on the caterpillar's head, whose base remains connected underground to the head and body of the caterpillar.
As mentioned above, the mycelium of the fungus, which has grown throughout the body of the caterpillar, does not allow microbes to colonize it, and the caterpillar does not decompose. Therefore, both the body of the caterpillar and the fruiting body of the fungus are used for medicinal purposes.
Interestingly, in China, cordyceps is called “an insect in winter, a grass in summer.” The mushroom bears fruit from June to October. In Russia it is found throughout the forest zone. It is believed that the most bioactive races of this fungus in Russia grow in the Far East.
Similar species:
The closely related species C. memorabilis (with an orange-yellow fruiting body) grows on beetles buried in the soil.
Uses of Cordyceps:
So, what is Cordyceps good for? Cordyceps is not a medicine, but it can only be called a conventional dietary supplement only conditionally due to the powerful positive effect of the fungus on all body systems. It encourages the body to self-regulate and self-purify, strengthen the immune system and increase body tone.
The chemical composition of Cordyceps is as follows:
7% cordycepsic acid, 25% protein, 8% fat, D-mannitol, galactomannans, amino acids (phenylalanine, prodine, histidine, valine, arginine, glutamine), stearic acid, ergosterol, adenine, vitamin B12, unsaturated fatty acids, and vitamins D, E, C; amino acids, proteins, unsaturated fatty acids, minerals: K, Fe, Ca, Mg, Co and more than 80 types of enzymes. Widely known as an additive to extracts, capsules, powders and other various products.
Main pharmacological indications of Cordyceps:
- A highly effective remedy that not only improves immunity, but also regulates immune reactions: if hyperimmunity is observed, then with the help of cordyceps mycelium it can be balanced.
- It acts as a natural antibiotic: it suppresses dozens of types of pathogenic bacteria, including pneumococcus, streptococcus, Staphylococcus aureus, etc.).
- As an anti-inflammatory agent, it is not inferior and even more effective than hydrocortisone.
- This mushroom moderately dilates blood vessels, increases blood supply to the heart and lungs, makes the heart work more efficiently: it slows down the pulse, but noticeably activates the blood flow of the coronary arteries - the amount of blood coming from the heart per unit time.
- Calming effect, increasing the ability to resist fatigue and oxygen starvation.
- Reduces lipid levels in the blood, increases resistance, cell oxidation, and prevents cancer.
All of the above pharmacological effects of Cordyceps have become the scientific basis for the treatment of many diseases.
This mushroom is indicated for the following diseases and conditions:
- Respiratory diseases: bronchitis, pneumonia, bronchial asthma, emphysema, tuberculosis, etc. (cough, impotence, shortness of breath, sweating, malaise caused by weakness of the lungs, etc.).
- Kidney diseases. The mushroom improves kidney metabolism, the dynamics of kidney tissue cells, alleviates and restores pathological and drug-induced injuries to the kidney tubes. Removes aching pain in the legs and lumbar region, prevents emissions and frequent urination (glomerulonephritis, pyelonephritis, cystitis, etc.).
- Diseases of the blood vessels of the heart. Cordyceps moderately and continuously increases blood flow in the coronary vessels and is able to regulate the ratio of calcium and phosphorus in the blood (coronary sclerosis, coronary heart disease, angina pectoris, myocardial infarction, risk of thrombosis). Cordyceps is a very valuable remedy for the stable treatment of coronary heart disease.
- Liver diseases: hepatitis, prevention of liver cirrhosis, improvement of metabolism in liver cells (hepatocytes) by improving blood supply and nutrition, which can prevent the development of cirrhosis.
- Blood diseases: thrombocytopenic purpura (Werlhof's disease), the main symptoms of which are multiple hemorrhages in the skin ("spotted disease"), bleeding from the mucous membranes, as a result - secondary anemia. In case of leukemia, stabilization of the process and prevention of the transition of the disease to the malignant stage.
- Malignant neoplasms of various organs, even in the late stage of the disease: improving the function of the affected organ, suppressing the main focus of the tumor; therefore, for malignant and especially benign brain tumors, cordyceps gives a stable positive result. The mushroom helps suppress the main focus of malignant diseases, prolongs the functioning of these organs, improves their condition, and is a powerful antioxidant.
- Antitoxic effect. Cordyceps improves the dynamics of the cells of the liver, kidneys, lungs and metabolism of the whole body, and this helps to remove toxic substances from the body, including intestinal poisons, medicinal compounds, radionuclides.
- Preventive and health-improving effect, prevention of the subsequent development of almost any disease.
- This mushroom reduces cholesterol levels in the body.
Great video. Worth a look!
Use of Cordyceps in folk medicine:
In traditional Chinese medicine, it has a history of use over thousands of years, primarily as a pulmonary and kidney tonic, to increase sperm production and to treat chronic bronchitis, asthma, tuberculosis and other diseases of the respiratory system. Chinese herbalists believed that cordyceps replenishes the Yin and Yang components and restores internal energy reduced after severe stress or due to age-related changes.
The fruiting bodies of the mushroom can be added to any first and second courses, but most often they are used in stews, soups and decoctions.
You can use any meat for cordyceps broth. To prepare the dish, take about 50 mushrooms (or 5–10 g of dried fruiting bodies) per 100–150 g of meat, as well as various spices and herbs. Bring the broth with meat to a boil, add spices and cordyceps. Cook over low heat for 2-3 hours. Salt is added towards the end of cooking. It is recommended to cook dishes with the fruiting bodies of this mushroom once or twice a week in winter and spring.
Alcohol tincture of cordyceps:
50 g of dried cordyceps fruiting bodies are poured with 500 ml of vodka or 40% alcohol. Infuse for 3-4 weeks. Take 10–15 ml per day.
Rules for collection and procurement for medicinal purposes:
In autumn, whole mature fruiting bodies are picked along with the affected caterpillars. Used fresh, tinctures, extracts and powder are made from the mushroom.
Not used directly for culinary purposes.
Based on the book by M. Vishnevsky “Medicinal mushrooms. Great encyclopedia."
Content
In modern Eastern medicine, medicinal mushrooms occupy a leading place as natural plant substances. The combination of their beneficial properties helps to get rid of a large number of diseases. Dietary supplements made from Cordyceps mushroom stimulate the immune system and act as an antioxidant and antibiotic. Before using such drugs, consult a specialist and carefully read the instructions for use.
What is Cordyceps
This mushroom from the ergot family, which has powerful antioxidant and immunostimulating properties, strengthens the immune system and improves the functioning of all body systems. It was first discovered in Tibet and is now grown in China. There are more than 200 species of this plant, one of them is Cordyceps sinensis. In the embryonic state, the mushroom remains in the ground for 2 years, saturated with useful substances. Since ancient times, it was believed that it improves the human energy field by removing toxic substances from the body.
Chemical composition and release form
The dietary supplement of the same name is produced in several forms: in the form of capsules and liquid form. The Cordyceps mushroom has the following chemical composition:
Substance name |
Useful action |
Beta carotene |
It produces vitamin A, which is needed for metabolism, strengthening blood vessels, and maintaining normal vision. |
Mannitol |
Tones, removes excess fluid from cells. |
Adenosine |
A substance necessary for metabolism, relieves pain and inflammation, normalizes cholesterol levels in the blood, helps withstand hypoxia (oxygen deficiency), and improves blood flow in the brain. |
Microelements (zinc, selenium, calcium, boron, iron, manganese) |
They have an immunomodulatory effect. |
Vitamin E |
Antioxidant, strengthens the immune system, improves male potency. |
B vitamins |
Needed for the functioning of the liver and nervous system. |
Phospholipids Amino acids |
Participate in the formation of cell membranes and are necessary for tissue regeneration (restoration). |
Polysaccharides |
Immunomodulators |
Ubiquinone (coenzyme) |
Improves kidney and heart function |
Antibiotic cordycepin |
Belongs to the nucleoside group, inhibits the growth and reproduction of streptococci and staphylococci. |
Action of the supplement
Due to its rich chemical composition, the mycelium of the mushroom has a large number of beneficial properties. Preparations based on it have a beneficial effect on the human body. Dietary supplement:
- increases the elasticity of the vascular wall and strengthens it;
- reduces the risk of formation of cholesterol plaques and dissolves previously formed ones, which contributes to the normal functioning of the cardiovascular system;
- activates cerebral circulation, improves mental activity;
- eliminates autoimmune and allergic reactions;
- strengthens the immune system;
- equalizes heart rhythm during arrhythmia;
- removes toxins and waste from the body;
- regulates the normal amount of mineral salts;
- calms (during stress);
- reduces blood pressure;
- destroys pathogenic bacteria;
- improves hematopoietic function;
- relieves inflammation;
- cures chronic diseases;
- removes harmful substances from the body;
- improves skin condition;
- slows down the aging process;
- increases sperm count in men;
- exhibits antitumor activity due to selenium and natural immunomodulators (anticancer substances).
Indications for use of Cordyceps
Cordyceps-based dietary supplements can be used in a comprehensive disease treatment program. Capsules are used to restore health in pathologies of various systems:
- respiratory – bronchitis, pneumonia, bronchial asthma, emphysema, tuberculosis;
- cardiovascular – angina pectoris, coronary pulmonary disease, myocardial infarction;
- urinary – pyelonephritis, glomerulonephritis, cystitis, frequent urination, enuresis, pain in the lumbar region;
- digestive – gastritis with heartburn, ulcerative colitis;
- reproductive – endometritis, colpitis, impotence, emissions, dysmenorrhea, uterine bleeding, mastopathy;
- hematopoietic – thrombocytopenic purpura, leukemia;
- hepatobiliary – hepatitis, cirrhosis of the liver;
- malignant tumors of different systems (the fungus suppresses tumor growth and metastases, improves the functioning of the affected organ);
- autoimmune lesions (focal inflammation of various tissues);
- viral lesions (herpes).
How to take Cordyceps
A visible effect of the drug can be obtained by taking the capsules for a long time (at least 2-3 months). The supplement is taken on an empty stomach, washed down with plenty of warm water, preferably between 21:00 and 23:00. For prevention, you need to take 2 courses of 30 days each year. The therapeutic course lasts 90-120 days. In the first week you need to drink 2 capsules per day, the next 7 days - 3 pieces, then the dose can be increased from 4 to 6 capsules. Standard prophylactic daily doses:
- children under 10 years old – no more than 1/2 capsule;
- children 10-12 years old – 1 capsule;
- teenagers and adults – 2 capsules.
special instructions
For oncological diseases, drugs with Cordyceps are taken in combination with other herbal remedies. For problems with the respiratory system, it is recommended to use the capsules early in the morning (4-5 hours). For kidney and bladder diseases, the mushroom supplement should be taken in the late afternoon (4-5 p.m.). For heart disease, which is accompanied by chest pain and redness of the cheeks, capsules are taken at 12 noon.
Cordyceps for children
Clinical studies of drugs based on Cordyceps have not been conducted. The dietary supplement has a hypotensive effect, which is unfavorable for the child’s body. To eliminate health risks, treatment should begin at the age of 6-10 years under the supervision of a doctor. The mushroom-based dietary supplement has a strong effect on the child’s body, so when taking it, it is important to follow the exact dosage. If undesirable reactions occur, replace the product with another certified drug.
Side effects
Cordyceps in capsules can negatively affect the formation of blood cells, disrupting the functioning of the hematopoietic system. The drug should be taken with caution by people with low blood pressure. In some chronic diseases, it can disrupt the functioning of internal organs; therefore, take dietary supplements from the mushroom under the supervision of a doctor.
Contraindications
Any herbal preparation may have contraindications for use. It is not recommended to use a dietary supplement from fungal mycelium:
- children under 6 years old;
- pregnant women;
- during lactation (breastfeeding);
- adults over 70 years of age;
- for severe diseases of the nervous system (epilepsy);
- when taking anticoagulants and drugs that dilate the bronchi;
- after heart attacks and strokes;
- in case of individual intolerance to individual components included in the drug.
Terms of sale and storage
The drug should be stored in a dry place, out of reach of children, at an air temperature no higher than +25°C. Shelf life – 3 years from the date of manufacture. The dietary supplement is sold in pharmacies without a doctor's prescription.
Analogs
This group includes drugs that have similar indications for use and belong to the same pharmacological group. The main analogues of dietary supplements with mushrooms.
In China they believe that it is not just a mushroom, it is an animal, a plant and an insect at the same time. The mycelium of Cordyceps enters the body of the insect and at this moment the fungus controls the insect. The fungus begins active growth inside the body. This makes the appearance of the mushroom very unusual: a thin mushroom stem growing directly from the insect’s head. Therefore, in China it is called tuber head. Since ancient times, people have noticed that this mushroom has high adaptive properties and can grow both in the highlands and in artificial environments. The body of the mushroom is a precious and beneficial medicinal product and has a long history of use in Chinese and Tibetan traditional medicine. It has immunomodulatory, adaptogenic, anti-inflammatory, anticarcinogenic, bacteriostatic and antioxidant, anti-stress effects. Chinese doctors also believe that the mushroom is able to influence the energy channels of organs and systems and restore metabolism.
In ancient times, people noticed that sick animals went to the mountains, ate cordyceps and after a short time returned healthy and full of strength. Farmers began to feed their livestock with this mushroom, and then traditional Chinese medicine became interested in it.
The miracle of this mushroom is that even with a short course of 1 month, there are already certain positive results, which is not typical for most herbal preparations. Antibiotics are usually famous for their speed of action. That is why the cordyceps mushroom is called a natural antibiotic.
The composition of Cordyceps is amazing, it includes 77 micro and macro elements, more than 85 types of enzymes, including coenzyme Q (ubiquinone), essential amino acids, unsaturated fatty acids, beta-carotene, vitamins E and C, beta glucans, selenium and zinc, immunomodulating polysaccharides .
Anti-inflammatory characteristics of the mushroom:
Scientific research conducted in America in 2011 was published in the Journal of Natural Products in September 2011. During the study, it was found that its use releases elastase and generates superoxide anion, which leads to a decrease in inflammatory reactions. The effects of taking cordyceps in the required concentration were comparable to the effects of hormonal drugs. A group of subjects suffered from various inflammatory joint diseases for a long time. On the 10th day of use, 45% noted a decrease in pain on a scale from 8 points to 4. On the 20th day of use, 68% of subjects noted a decrease in pain to 2 points. After treatment, stable remission was observed.
Antitumor activity and fight against oncology.
So why is this mushroom credited with such an effect on cancer? Many have heard about the treatment of cancer with cordyceps, let's find out.
If some seller promises you a complete 100% recovery after taking a course of Cordyceps, these are scammers. Yes, this mushroom has been well studied and has proven activity against mutating tumor cells, but a lot depends on the stage of the disease, type of cancer, lifestyle, age and even nutrition.
The results of clinical and experimental studies indicate that Cordyceps extracts have antitumor and antimetastatic activity (Yoshida J. et al. 1989, Nakamura K. et al. 1999). H.S. Kim et al. (1999). It is thanks to unique polysaccharides that the ability to slow down the growth of tumor cell colonies was found. Polysaccharides serve as unique markers and signaling molecules for our immune system to recognize mutating cells. As a result, a greater 5-year survival rate was revealed than in the control group of patients.
Also, special beta glucan cells trigger a controlled process of apoptosis (tumor cell death), due to which tumor growth is inhibited, followed by complete destruction.
The action of the mushroom components enhances the therapeutic effect, taking cordyceps enhances the effect of chemotherapy, improves the inhibitory antitumor effect, while increasing the effectiveness of chemotherapy by 68-76%, the effectiveness of radiotherapy increases by 26-33%. Taking Cordyceps after surgical removal of a tumor shortens the recovery time of the body and wound healing, which allows the patient to move on to chemotherapy and radiotherapy much sooner. Stops the rapid spread of the tumor, makes it possible to eliminate ascites in the chest cavity. Reduces adverse toxic reactions after therapy, softens the reaction when suppressing bone marrow functions.
After reading the article, you should not give up standard medical treatment, relying only on herbs and dietary supplements. The mushroom is perfectly compatible with traditional methods of treatment. And it’s better to attack the enemy from all fronts, let there be more chances for your victory.
Cordyceps and its effect on immunity and autoimmune diseases.
In autoimmune diseases, your immune system attacks your own healthy cells. This happens with rheumatoid arthritis, lupus erythematosus, scleroderma, Crohn's disease, ankylosing spondylitis, multiple sclerosis and others.
American pharmacologists from Cordyceps have isolated the following unique substances: cordycepin, polysaccharides, cordycepsic acid, adenosine, adenine and others, determining their strong effect on the immune system. Many people mistakenly think that cordyceps stimulates the body's immune system. In fact, everything is completely different.
Its mechanism of action is such that its active substances influence immune cells and adjust and regulate the immune response. Promotes the formation of full-fledged leukocytes, including T and B lymphocytes due to serine phospholipids. This medicinal mushroom is an immunomodulator. And this is important, especially in autoimmune diseases.
This higher mushroom has a bacteriostatic effect against several dozen pathogenic bacteria, has an anti-inflammatory effect and can safely replace hormonal drugs with long-term use.
Cordyceps capsules are available both in pure form and with the addition of other higher mushrooms. For example, for a stronger effect on the immune system, Lingzhi mushroom is often added to it.
Cordyceps and hematopoiesis, blood circulation.
This mushroom is known for its ability to stimulate hematopoiesis. The formation and renewal of new blood cells is more active. Moreover, without increasing blood pressure and stimulating the nervous system. Stabilizes cerebral blood supply by improving blood fluidity. Thanks to better blood circulation, it improves synoptic transmission in brain structures. This is very important for any diseases that impair cerebral circulation and blood circulation near the eyeballs.
Cordyceps, the strongest antioxidant.
Of course, we completely agree with this statement. Every day biochemical reactions occur in our body and free radicals (chemically very active particles) are formed. It is these particles that are responsible for the accelerated aging of organs and systems, the formation of cells with mutations, and oncology. Therefore, we need to include plenty of antioxidants in our food every day. They are vitamins E, A, C. But vitamin C is easily destroyed at temperatures above 40 degrees. Vitamins E and A also enter our body in limited amounts. Due to this, free radicals win this battle, and our body begins to get sick and die.
In a study conducted at the Beijing University of Pharmaceutical Sciences, it was found that cordyceps extract supplementation had anti-aging effects in mice and increased the activity of antioxidants such as superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase. Cordyceps also reduced lipid peroxidation and monoamine oxidase activity, both of which contribute to aging in mice.
So yes, it is an excellent antioxidant.
Treatment of asthma and diseases of the lungs and bronchi.
Studies have shown that cordyceps helps relieve symptoms and lead to recovery in several respiratory diseases, such as chronic bronchitis, cough, pneumonia, emphysema and asthma. Taking supplements based on it can help improve detoxification and blood circulation, which improves the supply of oxygen to the lungs. Bacterial flora and the resulting inflammation are also to blame for many lung diseases. Cordyceps is especially valuable here, as it acts as a natural antibiotic and adjusts the immune system.
In animal studies using cordyceps mycelium, it was found that it increased the number of helper T cells that fight infections without increasing the number of suppressor T cells. This makes it useful for accelerating the suppression of bacterial and viral infections.
In asthma, with long-term use, it improves gas exchange and ventilation of the lungs, increases the number of eosinophils, which facilitates the course of the disease.
And if we summarize and briefly describe for what diseases it is worth buying cordyceps and starting drinking without hesitation:
- diseases of the respiratory system: bronchitis, pneumonia, bronchial asthma, emphysema, tuberculosis.
- Cardiovascular diseases: angina pectoris, ischemic heart disease, myocardial infarction, myocarditis, rheumatic carditis.
- diseases of the genitourinary system: pyelonephritis, cystitis, glomerulonephritis,
- gynecological diseases: salpingo-oophoritis, adnexitis, endometritis, colpitis. Uterine fibroids.
- liver diseases: hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, fatty hepatosis.
- sexual dysfunction
- blood diseases: thrombocytopenic purpura (Werlhoff syndrome).
- Autoimmune diseases: rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, ankylosing spondylitis, multiple sclerosis, ankylosing spondylitis.
- Tumors: malignant and benign neoplasms, oncological diseases of the hematopoietic system, including during chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
- Decreased immunity: frequent ARVI, influenza.
- Sleep disturbance,
- carrying out detoxification of the body, in case of chronic and acute poisoning, strong drug therapy.
- Prevention of early aging, fight against free radicals.
- organ transplantation as an immunomodulator, reducing the body's resistance to transplanted tissues in order to prevent organ rejection. with increased physical activity and strength sports.
Are there any contraindications? The effect of Cordyceps on the baby's body during breastfeeding has not been studied, nor has the effect on the fetus been studied during pregnancy. Therefore, we advise you to refrain from taking Cordyceps during pregnancy and breastfeeding. No other contraindications have been identified.
Yes, this is a wonderful mushroom and its effect on the body is simply amazing and multifaceted. This is probably why it is so valued!
Passion for alternative methods of treatment, including Chinese traditional medicine, is a fairly common phenomenon even in our geographical latitudes. Today we decided to talk about one of these remedies, which has become quite popular among our compatriots and has gained a reputation as a real elixir of health. So, Cordyceps or Cordyceps Sinesis – what is more benefit or harm in this drug?, and also about
when taking cordyceps is strictly contraindicated– our publication today.
What is codyceps
First of all, I would like to note that
Cordyceps is not a medicine, but rather a dietary supplement that has antidiabetic, antitumor and radioactive properties, improves the functioning of all organs and systems of the human body.
It is noteworthy that in China the raw materials from which this drug is produced are categorized and valued at. Thus, the cost of one kilogram reaches 20,000 US dollars.
But what exactly is cordyceps? If we literally translate the name of this plant from the Tibetan language, we get a not entirely clear name - winter insect and summer plant. So, what is Cordyceps? Plant or insect? Both, because
Composition of Cordyceps
Now we come to the most interesting part - the composition of cordyceps. He can really impress even the most notorious skeptics. As many as 70 macro and microelements, about 80 enzymes (including) amino acids, nucleotides, fatty acids, proteins, vitamins E, D, C, beta-carotene, zinc and selenium, polysaccharides, peptides, glycosides, triterpenoids…
It seems that the list of useful ingredients can be continued endlessly. As for the healing properties, then Cordyceps has antitumor properties (as it increases the processes of melatonin synthesis), stimulates the central nervous system, helps to forget about sleep disorders, memory, irritability, increases the body's defenses, increases potency.
It would seem that, despite the amazing and rich composition of the raw materials from which Cordyceps is made, today on the dietary supplement market there are a sufficient number of drugs and products that can compete with Cordyceps, although they do not have all of the indicated properties in combination. However, according to the creators of this drug, its uniqueness and peculiarity lies in the fact that it has a gentle and “friendly” effect on every cell of our body, without exposing the human body to stress, but gradually rejuvenating hormonal levels and filling your body with the forces of health and life.
Use of cordyceps in medicine
And, if we started talking about cordyceps and its properties quite recently, then Chinese medicine has been actively using this drug for more than a thousand years to treat various diseases, including bronchitis, pneumonia, angina pectoris, tuberculosis, cystitis, pyelonephritis, hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, rheumatism...
How does Cordyceps work? Surprisingly, if not for chance, humanity would never have learned about the unique properties of such a caterpillar mushroom. Chinese peasants, grazing cattle on the mountain slopes, noticed that animals that ate this plant became more energetic, vital and hardy. Rumors about this also reached the doctors of the Chinese emperor, who began to study the properties of cordyceps. It was they who came to the conclusion that such the harsh habitat allowed this plant to become a real accumulating vessel of all vital substances.
Sources of Cordyceps
Today, science has discovered several more types of cordyceps that grow in both coniferous and deciduous forests around the world, however, Chinese cordyceps is the richest in its content of active substances and microelements, and is so rich that it surpasses even those in its beneficial properties.
Some interesting facts about Cordyceps
- athletes who regularly took Cordyceps had greater endurance and better athletic performance than those athletes who did not take this dietary supplement.
- Chinese medicine uses cordyceps as a means to prevent cardiovascular diseases. Thus, in the group of people taking Cordyceps, no cases were recorded, and the subjects themselves noted that they felt better.
- In terms of its properties, this dietary supplement is a worthy competitor to antibiotics, as it is able to fight dozens of pathogenic bacteria.
It is thanks to the properties of the drug that
A cure for all diseases, that’s what they say about Cordyceps. It is put on par with such well-known remedies as medicinal ginseng and extract from sika deer antlers. However, you should not blindly trust all preparations containing magic mushrooms.
How did data on the “ultra-high ability to survive” form in the DNA of mushrooms? What can cause side effects from taking the product. Why are preparations with cordyceps so popular even among healthy people? How to avoid stumbling upon “fake” cordips. About the most important and interesting things in more detail.
Mushroom "Chinese Cordyceps"
There are 400 species of Cordyceps. Only one species has unlimited value - “Chinese Cordyceps”. Himalayan Viagra is what they call it. The Tibetan mushroom once and for all secures its status as a “Panacea for all diseases.”
In the Russian Federation, products with cordyceps successfully pass the certification stages. From Rospotrebnadzor - a perpetual license for the import of cordyceps-containing drugs. Checks and tests confirm complete safety for humans. Medical studies do not reveal hormones, side effects, or dangerous toxins in the mushroom.
The Koran says “the cure for all diseases will come from an animal that turns into a plant.” This medicine is the only one in the world, Cordyceps. On one side there is a mushroom, on the other there is an insect. The plant has a unique development cycle. The spores of the fungus are on the surface of the earth in a calm state and await the victim. Of the million species of insects, the fungus of particular interest is the caterpillar of the “Bat” species. Ten to twenty meters away, the mycelium signals the proximity of the target, shoots spores, and those, like a homing radar, hit the target and adhere to the body of the insect through their papillae.
The caterpillar peacefully continues its life path until winter. Then, it burrows into the ground to turn into a chrysalis. During this period, the mycelium begins to work and grows inside the body.
The fungus completely fills the caterpillar’s body and sucks out all the “elixir of life” from it. The insect dies, and the frame becomes a protection against bacteria for the fungus.
By summer, a thin body grows on the insect’s head. This is where the origin of the name Cordyceps “dongchongxiao” means “winter is an insect, summer is grass”, briefly “chongcao” - “worm is grass”.
Subtleties of collection
The healing mushroom is found only in the wild nature of China, in the mountainous landscape of Tibet. Picking Cordyceps is like “looking for a needle in a haystack.” This precious organism rises only two centimeters above the ground. It's almost impossible to see. Pickers spend hours crawling along slopes, peering intently at the uneven soil. After discovering the cordyceps, the most difficult phase is to dig it up so as not to damage the roots of the plant. The length of cordyceps can vary greatly. A good one-piece copy will fetch a high price.
Tibetans collected medicinal mushrooms long before the advent of hospitals and clinics. Chinese mushroom is one of the secrets of longevity of Tibetan monks. Mentions of cordyceps are also found in the ancient treatise of the Yellow Emperor. The curious symbiosis of insect and fungus continues to puzzle the scientific community today.
The frantic search for cordyceps is radically changing the rural community of Tibet. Residents know that one of their traditional activities has turned into a profitable business and they do not intend to let it go.
In Asia, wild cordyceps is increasingly preferred to modern Western tablets. How long this will last is a complex environmental question. The need is growing - the quantity of the species is decreasing at an accelerated pace. The Chinese are even planning a “ban year” for harvesting. The soil must recover. Against this background, the cost of the mushroom will increase and exceed the price of gold. After all, now Cordyceps is considered not just a tonic, but something like an elixir of immortality.
Medicinal properties of cordyceps
Today's medicine continues to research and study the biological properties of the Chinese mushroom. Currently, it is known that the mushroom has a wide range of positive effects on the human body.
A powerful stimulator of blood circulation, activates the reproduction of red blood cells and platelets. Cellular organelles increase, metabolism accelerates. The main function of cordyceps is to quickly replenish energy costs. From the point of view of Chinese researchers, the cordyceps mechanism normalizes the motility of internal organs and works to replenish vital “Qi”.
The structure and integrity of the components of Cordyceps helps to avoid a narrow direction in the treatment of various diseases. Western medicine often causes damage with many side effects and complications. Pharmaceutical products and dietary supplements based on cordyceps cope with diseases in a completely safe manner and do not cause destructive reactions. There is no alternative to Chinese Cordyceps with similar properties.
The Chinese mushroom has the strongest immune-modeling, adaptogenic, bactericidal, anti-inflammatory effects, as well as:
- Regulates the immune system at the cellular level;
- Increases blood supply to the respiratory organs;
- Prevents arrhythmia;
- Normalizes liver function;
- Improves kidney function;
- Neutralizes “fatigue syndrome”;
- Speeds up metabolism;
- Balances calcium in the blood;
- Regulates platelet count;
- Reduces cholesterol levels;
- Promotes the resorption of blood clots;
- Restores the nervous system;
- Regulates the production of hormones;
- Improves brain function;
- Removes toxins and radiation;
- Enhances sexual potency in men;
- Rejuvenates, fills with energy.
Chemical composition:
- Cordycepsic acid - 7%;
- Protein - 25%;
- Fats - 8.4%;
- D-mannitol;
- Mannitol;
- Galactomannan.
Protein hydrolysis products:
- Glutamic acid;
- Phenylalanine;
- Proline;
- Histidine;
- Alanin.
US pharmacology has made significant progress in the research activities of cordyceps.
Pharmaceutical scientists have identified a unique substance, a special substance - cordycepsid, which has a similar composition to nucleic acid, which can make the human body resistant, enhance resistance to various bacteria, and also suppress the development of tumors.
Cordyceps for diabetes
Taking Chinese cordyceps normalizes the general well-being of the patient. The likelihood of complications will significantly decrease. The medicine will help avoid the hopelessness of using insulin and chemicals to lower sugar. It promotes positive progress in the treatment of all stages of diabetes. Cordycepsid corrects the functioning of the body at the cellular level:
- The energy supply of the cell increases;
- The process of exchange and renewal is accelerated;
- Improves interactions between cells;
- The work of hormonal reactions is stimulated.
The positive effect of Cordyceps is compared with the effect of a modern antidiabetic drug, metmorphine. After three months of taking the products, out of 30 patients, 90% received a positive result. Cordycepsid reduces glycemic levels, increases tissue sensitivity to insulin, activates liver cells to capture excess blood glucose, and also promotes rapid absorption of sugar, thereby neutralizing the density of insulin in the serum.
Rules for the use of pharmaceuticals containing cordycepsid
Each pharmaceutical manufacturer in China presents a line of therapeutic or preventive products with cordyceps. The drugs are pills, powders, mixtures, and have completely different concentrations. It is wise to seek advice from a doctor of oriental medicine for proper selection of the remedy and individual selection of dosage and method of application. For health prevention, it is enough to take a course of dietary supplements. Take the product strictly according to the instructions indicated on the package.