Today there are several brands of Cordyceps supplements available on the market which promise to boost energy, strengthen immune response, increase longevity and so on but what exactly is Cordyceps? This is a herb that has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for hundreds of years. It is actually a fungus that grows on the backs of caterpillars indigenous to the China, Tibet and Nepal regions. However, today, Cordyceps is grown on plant sources like soybean. Cordyceps harvested from the wild is of superior quality and very expensive. It costs around $1000 for just 100 grams. Cultivated Cordyceps also has amazing medicinal properties but at a much lower cost.
Chinese medicine advocated the use of Cordyceps for treating problems of the circulatory system, immune system and respiratory system. It is also a powerful aphrodisiac. In ancient China, Cordyceps was hailed as a panacea for all illnesses. It was thought to increase longevity, build strength and revitalize the body.
Recent research has also shown that Cordyceps can indeed boost the functioning of the circulatory system, boost immunity, increase energy and longevity. This herb boosts blood flow and oxygen supply throughout the body, giving it an energy boost. It has even been proven to help build muscles and increase endurance and stamina. As a matter of fact, several Chinese athletes have attributed their strength and stamina to the wonderful powers of Cordyceps. Clinical trials have shown that this herb is also very effective in treating problems like erectile dysfunction. It is known to be very effective in improving sex drive and energy. Animal studies have shown that Cordyceps can increase the ATP: Pi ratios in the liver. This in turn provides the body with more energy for metabolism. Studies conducted on mice showed that mice which were fed on Cordyceps had greater ability to utilize oxygen effectively and tolerate acidosis. Still other studies conducted on humans showed that people who used Cordyceps had better memory, less fatigue and improved cognitive abilities.
Exactly what is in Cordyceps that offers these benefits isn’t completely known. Research in this area is still limited. However, some studies suggest that it contains adenosine, polysaccharides, cordycepin and amino acids. Cordyceps has a very low incidence of toxicity so has been proven to be safe for regular use.
You can buy Cordyceps in it’s pure form from some medical or herbal stores, particularly those that offer Chinese herbals. However, most doctors recommend taking Cordyceps supplement in the form of capsules. This is because some unscrupulous traders may use lead to add to the weight of caterpillar grown Cordyceps. Moreover, the commercially available supplements are cheaper, do not carry the risk of food poisoning and are not associated with any side effects. You can get Cordyceps supplement in the form of capsule, extract or tincture.
Generally a cordyceps supplement is safe and can be used by all healthy adults. However, it is advised to use this in consultation with your doctor. Inform your doctor if you have any sensitivity to some medications, are pregnant or plan to become pregnant or if you are breastfeeding. You should also let your doctor know of any history of depression, blood pressure problems, breast cancer or stomach ulcers.
You can find many brands of Cordyceps supplements in different dosages. Some capsules have 100 mg, others 450 mg, some have 500 mg, 800 mg and so on. It is advised to take 2 to 3 grams of Cordyceps daily. It is best to take these supplements with meals to prevent stomach upset and to have it be utilized properly in the body.
Supplements containing extracts of this herb will increase energy levels and reduce fatigue. It will also help boost immunity, muscle strength and stamina. Chinese medical practitioners use this herb to treat conditions associated with sexual dysfunction, renal problems, cardiovascular problems and liver related problems.
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