Cordyceps sinensis

You may already have heard of Cordyceps Sinensis. But do you really know what it is and why this mushroom has such an impressive reputation in the world of health and well-being? Come on, let's dive into the fascinating world of this little treasure from the heights of the Himalayas.

Cordyceps Sinensis is no ordinary mushroom you'd find in the woods or supermarket. No, this one is a real jewel of nature. This parasitic fungus grows on the larvae of certain caterpillars at extreme altitudes, often above 4,000 metres! Yes, you read that right, it literally clings to these little creatures in order to grow. This particularity, although surprising, gives it unique properties. 

From autumn onwards, cordyceps develops in the body of the larva. It gradually spreads its mycelium until it kills and mummifies the insect. When the weather warms up in spring, the mycelium pushes through the larva's head to emerge at the surface. A real serial killer!

To meet growing global demand, cordyceps is now grown in artificial environments. These replicate as closely as possible the natural environment and growth conditions of wild cordyceps. For example, it is grown on rice straw in a low-temperature environment with an oxygen supply similar to that found in high-altitude regions.

This cultivation method produces cordyceps with a high concentration of active ingredients and the same properties as wild cordyceps. It has also made cordyceps more widely available throughout the world.

A boost for your energy and vitality
Cordyceps is reputed to improve physical and mental stamina. Do you sometimes feel tired or low on energy? This mushroom could be the key to recharging your batteries naturally. It helps improve your body's use of oxygen, which is particularly beneficial if you're sporty or need to stay focused all day. A study published in The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine in 2010 showed that consuming Cordyceps significantly improved physical performance in healthy adults. Participants saw an increase in their aerobic capacity, which means better use of oxygen by the body.

Endurance: by improving blood circulation and optimising the transport of nutrients in your body, cordyceps gives you the extra stamina you need to go the distance during your most intense sessions.

Recovery: thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, cordyceps helps to reduce muscle pain and speed up recovery after your training sessions. Less time in pain, more time to shine!

Strengthening the immune system
We all need a strong immune system, especially with the ups and downs of modern life. Cordyceps stimulates your natural defences, helping your body to fight infection and stay healthy. A 2012 study published in Phytotherapy Research showed that this mushroom stimulated the activity of NK (Natural Killer) cells, the immune system cells responsible for fighting infections and tumour cells.

An ally for the libido
Cordyceps is also known for its aphrodisiac properties. After ingesting it, farmers observed that their yaks, goats and sheep were stronger and more robust, and even behaved in the same way during the rutting season.

It is traditionally used to improve libido and support sexual function. A clinical study published in The Journal of Urology in 1995 showed that men who consumed Cordyceps experienced an improvement in their sexual desire and performance, thanks to increased testosterone levels and better blood circulation.

Support for respiratory functions
Originally from the mountains, Cordyceps has long been used by Himalayans to improve breathing. If you have breathing problems or practice endurance sports, this mushroom could help you breathe more easily by increasing the capacity of your lungs. A study conducted in 2004 and published in The American Journal of Chinese Medicine showed that Cordyceps improved the symptoms of chronic respiratory disorders, such as asthma and bronchitis, by increasing lung capacity and reducing inflammation of the airways..

A powerful antioxidant
Cordyceps is loaded with antioxidants, the molecules that fight free radicals in your body. They protect your cells from premature ageing and promote better overall health. Research published in Biological and Pharmaceutical Bulletin revealed that this mushroom has powerful antioxidant properties. It helps neutralise free radicals, the molecules responsible for premature cell ageing.

And now you know all about Cordyceps Sinensis, the super fungus that comes straight from the Himalayan peaks. Between its not exactly glamorous lifestyle (poor caterpillars...) and its super-powers for your body, it's got something to surprise you. Whether you're looking for a boost, improved recovery after training or even a little libido boost, Cordyceps could well become your new natural ally.

So, are you ready to be tempted by this mushroom like no other? After all, if Tibetan monks and athletes love them, there must be something underneath! 😉

Sources and scientific studies

Paola Rossi, Daniela Buonocore, Elisa Altobelli, Federico Brandalise, Valentina Cesaroni, Davide Iozzi, Elena Savino, et Fulvio Marzatico, 2014. Improving Training Condition Assessment in Endurance Cyclists: Effects of Ganoderma lucidum and Ophiocordyceps sinensis Dietary Supplementation.

Bao-qin Lin, Shao-ping Li, 2011. Cordyceps as an Herbal Drug.

Kanitta Jiraungkoorskul, Wannee Jiraungkoorskul, 2016. Review of Naturopathy of Medical Mushroom, Ophiocordyceps Sinensis, in Sexual Dysfunction.

Koh JH, Kim KM, Kim JM, Song JC, Suh HJ, 2003. Antifatigue and antistress effect of the hot-water fraction from mycelia of Cordyceps sinensis.

Jeevan K. Prasain, 2013. Pharmacological Effects of Cordyceps and Its Bioactive Compounds.

Tuli HS, Sandhu SS, Sharma AK. Pharmacological and therapeutic potential of Cordyceps with special reference to Cordycepin. 3 Biotech. 2014;4(1):1‐12. doi:10.1007/s13205-013-0121-9

Xiao, Jian-Hui & Xiao, Dai-Min & Sun, Zhong-Hua & Xiong, Qing & Liang, Zong-Qi & Zhong, Jian-Jiang. (2009). Chemical compositions and antimicrobial property of three edible and medicinal Cordyceps species. Journal of Food, Agriculture and Environment. 7.

Chan, Jannie & Barseghyan, Gayane & Asatiani, Mikheil & Wasser, Solomon. (2015). Chemical Composition and Medicinal Value of Fruiting Bodies and Submerged Cultured Mycelia of Caterpillar Medicinal Fungus Cordyceps militaris CBS-132098 (Ascomycetes). International Journal of Medicinal Mushrooms. 17. 649-659. 10.1615/IntJMedMushrooms.v17.i7.50.