Cordyceps sinensis – The Athlete’s Mushroom

In its natural habitat, Cordyceps sinensis is a small fungus that parasitizes on one particular species of caterpillar at high elevations of the Tibetan plateau. [1] Thousands of such unimposing species in similarly remote locations are not yet even discovered or described by western science. So it is highly surprising that Cordyceps is even known and discovered, let alone that its become one of the most sought after medicinal fungi in the world.

The highly improbable likelihood of fame from such humble origins may in and of itself indicate that, “surely there must be something to it.”

Cordyceps extract has been valued in China for almost two thousand years as an aphrodisiac and general vitalizing tonic. The first recorded mention of Cordyceps extract appears in the Chinese work The Classic Herbal of the Divine Plowman from about 200 A.D. [2] Modern works have reaffirmed its traditional wisdom. [3]

Contemporary researchers in Asia have discovered that Cordyceps sinensis demonstrates anti-tumor and immune-enhancing qualities. [4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12]

Four studies have indicated that Cordyceps may be useful in treating leukemia. [13, 14, 15, 16] The U.S. National Institute of Health began Phase I screening of the compound cordycepin in the treatment of leukemia in 2002.

In keeping with the use of Cordyceps as an aphrodisiac, a recent study reported a 64% improvement of erectile dysfunction. [17] Underlying these results may be the effect Cordyceps appears to have on blood vessel dilation and blood-flow. [18, 19]

Cordyceps extract also appears promising for cardio-vascular health by reducing cholesterol and acting as a general cardiotonic, [20] as well as aiding the kidneys [21] and liver (post-hepatitic cirrhosis). [22]

However, the main reason for Cordyceps’ popularity is its effect on physical stamina. [23, 24, 25] As mentioned above, this may in part be due to the fact that it helps dilate blood vessels and increase blood-flow to muscles and organs. Although another reason may be that Cordyceps helps dilate not only blood-vessels but also respiratory passageways, as reported in two papers on bronchitis and asthma. [3, 26]

In 1993, Cordyceps made headlines when nine Chinese athletes gave it credit for the world records they set at that year’s Chinese National Games. [27, 28]

Cordyceps sinensis is also rich in anti-oxidants, [29] polysaccharides and many other newly discovered compounds, [8, 30, 31] plus many more that are yet to be isolated.

Finally, a few additional areas where modern research on Cordyceps has shown some promising results, as listed by Paul Stamets in his book Mycelium Running, include: Lymphoma; lung cancer; viruses; bacteria; nerves (stress); blood pressure. [134]

Note: The statements on this page have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This article is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Never use any medicinal mushroom or herb without prior approval by medical doctor.

Credit to Paul Stamets for research and source material.