Cordyceps Sinensis: Probing on Potential Health Benefits

by

mackshepperson

Ophiocordyceps sinensis or simply Cordyceps sinensis is one of the best known species of the sac fungus genus Ophiocordyceps. Colloquially known as caterpillar fungus because of its parasitic relationship with the larva or caterpillar of a ghost moth genus Thitarodes, Cordyceps sinensis is known in the West as a medicinal mushroom for its historic use in treating a number of prominent ailments, such as fatigue and cancer. This mushroom is also used as an aphrodisiac.

Several species of ghost moth genus Thitarodes live underground on alpine grass and shrub lands on the Tibetan Plateau and Himalayas. They spend around five years underground before pupating. As caterpillar, the soon ghost moths feed on grass roots, but are eventually attacked, killed, and mummified by the fungus Cordyceps sinensis. The attack is followed by filling the caterpillar\’s body with mycelia, from which the mushroom grows and emerges from the ground.

Cordyceps sinensis is believed many Tibetan practitioners to have an outstanding balance of yin and yang, a concept that describes the interdependence of seemingly contrary forces. This belief is based mainly on the basic quality of Cordyceps sinensis as both vegetable and animal. Today, the mushroom\’s product can be produced artificially from mycelium grown in grains, but not from the Thitarodes larva.

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Experiments on the effect of cordyceps sinensis extract have revealed its ability to have an anti-depressant effect. Further research has also identified an ability to remove excess glucose from the blood, which otherwise would be toxic. This effect eventually protects the liver, muscles, and fat tissues. Cordyceps sinensis extract is ideal for people who have insulin resistance.

Cordyceps sinensis was first globally credited for its health benefits in 1993 when three female athletes broke 5 world records in track and field during the Chinese National Games, which their coach described as an effect of taking

cordyceps sinensis extract

besides turtle blood. Many athletes today recognize the potent effect of Cordyceps in their stamina and endurance. The extract can also help revitalize the organs in the body, which later made elderly people prefer it to other supplements.

Other research on Cordyceps sinensis has shown its adaptogenic properties. An herb is considered an adaptogen if it adapts to help the body in what it needs, but does not leave any side effect. This has been proven through swim test with mice, which showed that the mice that were fed with

cordyceps sinensis extract

swam longer than the control group.

You can get more relevant information about Cordyceps extract or

cordyceps supplement

on the Net. Many websites further explain the wonders behind medicinal mushrooms.

If you have questions, please visit us at www.mushroomscience.com for complete details and answers.

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