Cordyceps

 Cordyceps militaris (Military cordyceps, Caterpillar fungus)

Description

Cordyceps militaris is a parasitic fungus that primarily preys on insect larvae. Once the fungus consumes the insect, it produces an elongated fruiting body, which is the part often used in medicinal applications. The fruiting body is bright orange or red, and it is significantly smaller than its more famous cousin, Cordyceps sinensis, which preys on caterpillars in the Tibetan plateau.
Nowadays Cordyceps mushrooms are cultivated on grain substrates in labs and are more potent than the Cordyceps sinensis found in the wild. 

History of traditional use

Traditionally used in many Asian countries, especially China and Korea, Cordyceps militaris has been prized for its purported ability to restore energy, enhance stamina, and reduce fatigue.
One of the most frequently described “side effects” described by those who use Cordyceps is its aphrodisiac and sexual potentiator qualities for both men and women.

Nutritional and Active Molecular Profile

• Cordycepin: This compound is unique to Cordyceps militaris and is being studied for various potential benefits, including anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor effects. It also boosts apoptosis which is the replacement of old or damaged cells hence the rejuvenation of the entire system.
• Adenosine tryphosphate : this compoud is common in both types of cordyceps: it helps in increasing the oxygen utilisation in the body.
• Polysaccharides: Beneficial for immune support.
• Beta-glucans: These molecules can support immune functions and may have anti-cancer properties.

Health benefits

1. Energy and Stamina Boost: Often used by athletes and the elderly to boost performance and reduce fatigue.
2. Enhance libido and testosterone levels for both men and women.
3. Increases sperm production, testosterone, erectile function for men.
4. Immune Support: Enhances the body’s immune functions.
5. Respiratory Health: Has been used traditionally to treat respiratory ailments like asthma and bronchitis.
6. Kidney health is supported by cordyceps: Fatigue, impotence, anemia, hypertension, joint and back pains are all symptoms of poor kidney health
7. Anti aging by increasing anti oxydants
8. Anti-inflammatory: Some studies suggest Cordyceps can reduce inflammation in the body.

Symptoms It can help relieve

Fatigue, shortness of breath, reduced athletic      performance, and more.

Possible cautions/interactions

Cordyceps might slow blood clotting, so there is a potential risk of bleeding in people with bleeding disorders. It may also interfere with medications that slow blood clotting (like anticoagulants and anti platelet drugs). As with any supplement, consult a healthcare professional before use, especially if taking medications or have underlying health conditions.

State of current scientific research

 Research on Cordyceps militaris is ongoing. While its use have been known for its medicinal properties in Asia for at least 2000 years, further rigorous research on humans is required to ascertain the full extent of its benefits and possible side effects.

Online articles

• https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/cordyceps-benefits
• https://www.health.com/cordyceps-benefits-7554913
• https://www.verywellhealth.com/benefits-of-cordyceps-89441
• https://examine.com/supplements/cordyceps/
• https://www.medicinenet.com/what_cordyceps_do_for_body_benefits_side_effects/article.htm
• https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphar.2020.602364/full
• https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/integrative-medicine/herbs/cordyceps
• https://www.mdpi.com/2304-8158/10/11/2634
• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK92758/