Thus, more research is needed before experts can make any recommendations. Effects of Extract from Solid-State Fermented. Effect of Cs-4 (Cordyceps sinensis) on exercise performance in healthy older subjects: a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Cathy Wong is a nutritionist and wellness expert. While the supplements are assumed to be safe, there remain concerns about the general safety of imported traditional Chinese medications. Also keep an eye out for supplements labeled "yeast-free." Due to the lack of research, cordyceps products of any sort should not be used in children, pregnant women, or nursing mothers. Cordyceps might improve immunity by stimulating cells and specific chemicals in the immune system. While there are few quality studies investigating these effects in humans, several animal studies have been conducted, usually with disappointing or inconclusive results.. Cordyceps Sinensis is just one member of the massive Cordyceps family, comprising of over 400 members. Of the more than 400 species of Cordyceps discovered, two have become the focus of health research: Cordyceps sinensis and Cordyceps militaris. Few of these claims are strongly supported by research.. Cordyceps Benefits to Health. All rights reserved. In test-tube studies, Cordyceps have been shown to inhibit the growth of many types of human cancer cells, including lung, colon, skin and liver cancers (18, 19, 20, 21). 2012;2012:743107. These results suggest the fungi may help reduce complications associated with some cancer treatments. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. Cordyceps is also purported to boost athletic performance, a claim that grabbed headlines in 1993 when Chinese track and field athletes shattered multiple world records, a feat their coach attributed to C. sinesis supplements. 6 Mushrooms That Act as Turbo-Shots for Your Immune System, Insulin and Insulin Resistance — The Ultimate Guide, 15 Easy Ways to Lower Blood Sugar Levels Naturally, 10 Natural Ways to Lower Your Cholesterol Levels, Kalonji: Weight Loss, Benefits, and Side Effects. Similar results have been seen with colon cancer cells. In fact, the Chinese government approved Cordyceps CS-4 for use in hospitals and recognizes it as a safe, natural drug (32). In a 2010 study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, a daily cordyceps supplement appeared to improve exercise performance, albeit modestly, in a small group of older adults, ages 50 to 75. Cholesterol has many important functions. Proponents also claim that cordyceps can protect against health problems like asthma, depression, diabetes, fatigue, high cholesterol, and upper respiratory tract infections. Adenosine is a naturally occurring compound that has heart-protective effects (34). 2011;2(1):9-13. doi:10.4103/0975-9476.78183, Hirsch KR, Smith-ryan AE, Roelofs EJ, Trexler ET, Mock MG. Cordyceps militaris Improves Tolerance to High-Intensity Exercise After Acute and Chronic Supplementation. However, it’s important to note that these studies were performed in animals and test tubes, not humans. Cordyceps militaris improves tolerance to high-intensity exercise after acute and chronic supplementation. Cordyceps has long been used as a traditional treatment for diabetes in China. The cordycepins in the cordyceps mushroom also appear to be toxic to leukemia cells. Research in animals suggests Cordyceps may have potential as a diabetes treatment. LDL can raise your risk of heart disease by leading to the buildup of cholesterol in your arteries. Read our, Medically reviewed by Arno Kroner, DAOM, LAc, Medically reviewed by Lana Butner, ND, LAc, Medically reviewed by Rochelle Collins, DO, Medically reviewed by Richard N. Fogoros, MD. Reviews (0) Reviews . Cordyceps militaris Treatment Preserves Renal Function in Type 2 Diabetic Nephropathy Mice. Only time will tell if the health benefits of Cordyceps observed in animal and laboratory studies apply to humans. When these fungi attack their host, they replace its tissue and sprout long, slender stems that grow outside the host’s body. Some of the potential cordyceps benefits include improved immunity and heart health, slowed aging, enhanced athletic performance and sexual function, better blood sugar levels and protection against cancer cell growth and development. The Benefits of Coptis Chinensis (Huang Lian). However, the current research suggests Cordyceps are not effective at improving exercise performance in trained athletes (7, 8). Cordyceps Flower Cordyceps flowers are cultured Cordyceps fruiting body that is a fungus. It may also have activity against cancer cells … There are many important cordyceps mushroom benefits. The dosage commonly used in human research is 1,000–3,000 mg per day. Health Benefits. Cordyceps is a type of medicinal mushroom said to offer antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. It slows the aging process, increases energy, and improves the immune system. DOI: 10.1080/19390211.2016.1203386. Unfortunately, there is insufficient evidence to determine whether Cordyceps benefit heart health in humans. Do Agaricus Mushrooms Have Health Benefits? One of these side effects is leukopenia. 9 Cordyceps Health Uses and Benefits … There are many cordyceps health benefits. Chronically elevated blood sugar levels are common in people with uncontrolled diabetes and can have serious health effects. However, many of these studies are poor quality, and the results cannot be extended to humans. Currently, there is no consensus on the dosage people should take to reap its potential health benefits, or how safe it is. Moreover, an improved cholesterol profile is generally associated with increased insulin sensitivity.. You would need to stop taking cordyceps at least two weeks beforehand to prevent excessive bleeding. These are less likely to be contaminated with molds that commonly infest dried mushroom products. Long used in traditional Chinese medicine, cordyceps is available in the United States as a dietary supplement. J Diet Suppl. These fungi are also prized for their natural ability to fight infections, inflammation, and free radicals, and have a reputation as a longevity-promoting herb. Dietary supplements in the United States are not required to undergo the rigorous testing that pharmaceutical drugs do. Proponents also claim that cordyceps can protect against health problems like asthma, depression, diabetes, fatigue, high cholesterol, and upper respiratory tract infections. This is the “High Performance” adaptogen that is renowned for its ability to increases energy and endurance,... REISHI MUSHROOM:. Therefore, it’s important for people with diabetes to make sure their blood sugar levels are well controlled. 5 Benefits of Cordyceps For Your Brain and Body CORDYCEPS:. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. This fungus is also found to help prevent certain types of cancer. In fact, Cordyceps are approved in China for the treatment of arrhythmia, a condition in which the heartbeat is too slow, too fast or irregular (32). The foods you eat can have a major impact on diabetes and blood sugar levels. Is Juan Bi Tang Effective in Treating Arthritis? Cordyceps is a parasitic fungus that grows on certain types of caterpillars and is found mainly in the high altitudes of the Himalayas and the Tibetan plateau. Test-tube and animal studies suggest Cordyceps may have the potential to treat cancer, as well as some side effects of cancer treatments. Thank you, {{form.email}}, for signing up. Interestingly, Cordyceps reversed the leukopenia. Faster recovery from bronchitis and respiratory diseases 4. Researchers believe the fungi may exert anti-tumor effects in several ways. Cordyceps may also have a beneficial effect on cholesterol levels. Oct 2013. Unless there is a USP or ConsumerLab certification, it is often impossible to know how much, if any, cordyceps is in a product. © 2005-2021 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. A 2012 study from Taiwan reported that a four-week course of a cordyceps extract was able to improve cholesterol levels and reduce weight in diabetic mice but did nothing to alter blood sugar levels or improve insulin resistance. In several studies in diabetic mice, Cordyceps have been shown to decrease blood sugar levels (28, 29, 30). Traditional Chinese Medicine: What You Need To Know. This also applies if you are scheduled to undergo surgery. Atherosclerosis. Some users may experience mild side effects, including stomach ache, nausea, diarrhea, or dry mouth. Symptoms typically resolve once the treatment is stopped. Sign up for our Health Tip of the Day newsletter, and receive daily tips that will help you live your healthiest life. It boosts exercise performance According to this study, the polysaccharides from Cordyceps has an anti-fatigue effect. Cordyceps militaris improves tolerance to high-intensity exercise after acute and chronic supplementation. It is a caterpillar fungus that grows on moth caterpillars which eventually kills it and mummifies it. Being resistant to its effects, termed insulin resistance, is a leading driver of many health…. Here are 16 foods to get you on your way to managing diabetes. Possible Benefits for Heart Health As research emerges on the effects of Cordyceps on heart health, the benefits of the fungi are becoming increasingly apparent. Supports Chronic Kidney Disease. One study found it reduced skin inflammation when applied topically in mice, further demonstrating its anti-inflammatory properties (44). In alternative medicine, cordyceps is often touted as a natural energy booster. The effects of Cordyceps on leukopenia and tumor growth in humans is unknown, so health experts can’t currently draw conclusions. Induction of apoptosis by aqueous extract of Cordyceps militaris through activation of caspases and inactivation of Akt in human breast cancer MDA-MB-231 Cells. Scientifically proven health benefits of the Cordyceps Flower: - Improve respiratory function to treat asthma, cough, emphysema, bronchitis - Improve kidney, boost energy and improve brain memory - Improve liver function to treat hepatitis J Microbiol Biotechnol. Here are 6 foods that increase inflammation in the body. Panda AK, Swain KC. LION’S MANE:. Induction of apoptosis by aqueous extract of Cordyceps militaris through activation of caspases and inactivation of Akt in human breast cancer MDA-MB-231 Cells. September 21, 2016 September 2, 2020 Herbs / Natural / Nootropics. After three weeks, participants’ VO2 max had increased by 11%, compared to a placebo. One of the most undeniable health … Some of these include: 1. Hum Vaccin Immunother. J Ayurveda Integr Med. Insulin resistance is associated with increased cholesterol synthesis, decreased cholesterol absorption and enhanced lipid response to statin therapy. How an Earthworm Enzyme Can Prevent Heart Attacks and Stroke, The Purported Health Benefits of Magnolia Bark. 5. 2. Other have reported a lingering metallic taste after using a cordyceps product, which may take longer to resolve. The researchers attributed these findings to the adenosine content of Cordyceps. Little is known about the long-term safety of taking cordyceps. Studies in mice have also shown that Cordyceps have anti-tumor effects on lymphoma, melanoma and lung cancer (22, 23, 24, 25). Another study found that Cordyceps extended the lives of fruit flies, further supporting the belief that they have anti-aging benefits (17). DOI: 10.1089/acm.2009.0226. 2010;211(1):260-5. doi:10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2010.02.029, Wang N, Li J, Huang X, Chen W, Chen Y. Herbal Medicine Improves Health-Related Quality of Life in Moderate-to-Severe Asthma. Here are 6 health benefits of Cordyceps but do you know the ugly truth? Ⓒ 2021 About, Inc. (Dotdash) — All rights reserved, Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. One of the most well-researched areas of support and nourishment for cordyceps is its role in supporting kidney health, especially in cases of chronic kidney disease. This article reviews whether kalonji may aid weight loss, as well as…. Many of these benefits have been attributed to a compound known as cordycepin, which is similar in molecular composition to adenosine. Antioxidants are molecules that fight cell damage by neutralizing free radicals, which can otherwise contribute to disease and aging (13, 14, 15). Cordyceps are believed to have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, both of which may help prevent or treat high blood pressure (hypertension). Cut into pieces and arrange on a steaming plate , set aside . The elderly have traditionally used Cordyceps to reduce fatigue and boost strength and sex drive. For this reason, the majority of Cordyceps supplements contain a synthetically grown version called Cordyceps CS-4. Cordyceps may benefit heart health by helping prevent arrhythmias and lowering levels of triglycerides and “bad” LDL cholesterol. All Cordyceps are endoparasitoids, meaning the spores infect a host insect, taking over the body, culminating in the fruiting body sprouting from the insects brain. The remains of the insect and fungi have been hand-collected, dried and used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for centuries to treat fatigue, sickness, kidney disease and low sex drive. Animal and lab studies suggest Cordyceps have the potential to improve heart health and fight inflammation, cancer, diabetes and aging. The last two decades have seen a great increase in research on cordyceps as a medicinal mushroom.There are many reported cordyceps health benefits. Skin and bone whole chicken legs , rinse and drain well . Triglycerides are a type of fat found in your blood. Pharmacological and therapeutic potential of Cordyceps with special reference to Cordycepin. Cordyceps sinensis is difficult to harvest and carries a price tag of more than $9,000 USD per pound (32). For instance, cordyceps are touted a… High levels are linked to a greater risk of heart disease (38). Soak dried cordyceps flowers in water until soft , rinse and drain . Cordyceps may also reverse the side effects associated with many forms of cancer therapy. No more forgetting where your keys or glasses are! This…, Recently, kalonji has gained popularity for its purported weight loss benefits. It's so rare that most people get a farm-cultivated version of Cordyceps militaris, instead, which has similar health benefits. However, the fungi appear to be less effective than commonly prescribed drugs used to provide relief for inflamed areas of the body (43). DOI: 10.1155/2012/743107. Despite its relative safety, the action of the herbal medication is poorly understood and may cause problems in certain users. Participants received either 3 grams per day of a synthetic strain of Cordyceps called CS-4 or a placebo pill for six weeks. Traditional uses and medicinal potential of Cordyceps sinensis of Sikkim. For wholesale purchase of 1kg and above, enquiry here . Antioxidants help defend your cells from damage. However, it’s unknown if Cordyceps have these same anti-aging benefits in humans. If you choose to take Cordyceps supplements, make sure they’ve been tested by a third-party organization for purity and quality. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, cordyceps flower have the following health benefits: Nourish lungs Reduce fatigue Enhance our immune system Improve sleep Tonify kidneys and liver Cough relief (it helps to moisten the throat) Anti-aging Cordyceps is often referred to as the caterpillar fungus because of its thin, tubular shape. It has anti-aging properties Cordyceps has a high antioxidant content. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, cordyceps flower have the following health benefits such as nourish lungs, reduce fatigue, enhance our immune system, improve sleep, tonify kidneys and liver, cough relief (it helps to moisten the throat) & rich in anti-aging properties. I used black chicken in this soup. Cordyceps sinensis has been used for centuries in traditional Asian medicine and Chinese medicine, Cordyceps is commonly used in China to promote general wellbeing and health. This may improve the way your body uses oxygen, especially during exercise (1, 2). If you develop any unusual symptoms after consuming cordyceps, stop and let your doctor know. Cordyceps originated in traditional Chinese medicine about 5,000 years ago and is one of the world’s oldest “super foods.” The health benefits of cordyceps were first described in ancient Chinese medical texts, and folk healers have used it alone or combined with other Chinese herbs to fight various diseases. Supports Gut Health This article highlights 6 potential benefits of Cordyceps, based on science. Traditional uses and medicinal potential of Cordyceps sinensis of Sikkim, Cordyceps militaris Improves Tolerance to High-Intensity Exercise After Acute and Chronic Supplementation, Cordyceps militaris Treatment Preserves Renal Function in Type 2 Diabetic Nephropathy Mice, Insulin resistance is associated with increased cholesterol synthesis, decreased cholesterol absorption and enhanced lipid response to statin therapy, Herbal Medicine Improves Health-Related Quality of Life in Moderate-to-Severe Asthma, Anti-tumor and anti-metastatic roles of cordycepin, one bioactive compound of Cordyceps militaris, Pharmacological and therapeutic potential of Cordyceps with special reference to Cordycepin, Traditional Chinese Medicine: What You Need To Know. 20 min 1 ora 40 min cordyceps flower benefits Read recipe >> my first peony & hydrangea sugar flower (gum paste flower) Assalamualaikum Dan salam sejahtera semua, Beberapa minggu yg lepas melapangkan diri menghadiri kelas membuat bunga gula. No studies have yet examined the safety of Cordyceps in humans. Some foods can drive inflammation and raise your risk of chronic disease. While these findings are promising, it’s unknown whether they apply to humans. Taking them together may increase the risk of bleeding or easy bruising. Can the Poria Mushroom Strengthen Your Immune System? 2016;2016:6134593. Cordyceps’ potential to slow the growth of tumors has generated significant interest in recent years. Dried whole mushrooms can often be found online, although you can't always be sure if you're getting C. simensis or a related cordyceps species. Health Benefits: Cordyceps Flower aka Cordyceps Militaris is used as a key herb to support the immune system, act as an anti-viral agent, help control blood sugar and protect liver and kidney health. One study found that mice that given Cordyceps lived several months longer than mice given a placebo (16). Whats people lookup in this blog: Cordyceps Flower Health Benefits Cordyceps contain a special type of sugar that may help treat diabetes. Cordyceps is a genus of parasitic fungi that grows on the larvae of insects. Top 11 Benefits of Cordyceps 1. By the end of the study, VO2 max had increased by 7% in participants who had taken CS-4, while participants given the placebo pill showed no change (3). A study found that Cordyceps significantly reduced heart injuries in rats with chronic kidney disease. Cordyceps Quick Review [Caterpillar fungus, Deer fungus parasite, Chongcao] Cordyceps is a genus of ascomycete fungi and some of its members including Cordyceps mycelium are commonly used in herbal medicine. These are third-party organizations that ensure supplements contain the ingredients listed on the label, without impurities. Effects of Extract from Solid-State Fermented Cordyceps sinensis on Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. Cordyceps 14 health benefits backed by science ecosh life the benefits of cordyceps militaris lost empire herbs here are 6 health benefits of cordyceps but do you know the ugly truth cordyceps to be or not primordia world of mushrooms. Injuries to the heart from chronic kidney disease are thought to increase the risk of heart failure, so reducing these injuries may help avoid this outcome (33). Supplements and products containing Cordyceps extract have become increasingly popular due to their many purported health benefits. The potential inflammation-fighting properties of Cordyceps have yet to be observed in humans. Despite this, the researchers suggested that the benefits of weight loss in controlling diabetes may be significant. Her work is regularly featured in media such as First For Women, Woman's World, and Natural Health. In the United States, cordyceps is usually available in capsule, tablet, or powder formulations. Although written record of Cordyceps sinensis use appeared in Traditional Chinese Medicine centuries ago, it wasn't really noticed in the West until recently. While researchers found no change in VO2 max in either group, participants given CS-4 improved other measures of exercise performance. Today, people have overharvested Cordyceps sinensis in the wild. Research in mice suggests Cordyceps have anti-aging properties. Research has shown that when human cells are exposed to Cordyceps, special proteins that increase inflammation in the body become suppressed (39, 40, 41, 42). 2010 May;16(5):585-90. Cordyceps is generally understood as an immune boosting, energy-enhancing mushroom, with many other potential benefits related to everything from stamina and aging to diabetes and cancer. Energy Tonic and Restorative. The authors of the review stated that many of the studies were low quality. Lets take a closer look at the health benefits of this fungi. Hirsch, K.; Smith-Ryan, A.; Roelofs, E. et al. Creating your own Cordyceps extract from a simple powder can be tedious and difficult, so you are better off buying a high-quality Cordyceps extract with full benefits. These 12 foods are high in antioxidants and can help keep your cells healthy. Some evidence suggests that they may also protect against kidney disease, a common complication of diabetes. In one study, researchers tested their effects on exercise capacity in 30 healthy older adults using a stationary bike. Cordyceps sinensis are so highly valued in Traditional Chinese Medicine that they were exclusively available to the emperor’s family in ancient China. Cordyceps is said to help fight inflammation in the body. Cordyceps Flower 蟲草花 100g Food Drinks Instant On The benefits of cordyceps militaris lost empire herbs cordyceps flower en soup souper diaries the healing benefits of cordyceps flower soup mushroommentor com cordyceps 14 health benefits backed by science ecosh life. Uniquely, Cordyceps Sinensis has also shown the ability to impose bi-directional control, calming overactive immune systems and improving autoimmune diseases such as … doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0166342, Hoenig MR, Sellke FW. She is in private practice in Santa Monica, California. 2017;14(1):42-53. doi:10.1080/19390211.2016.1203386, Yu SH, Dubey NK, Li WS, et al. Dried whole cordyceps are often used to make tinctures and extracts, while powdered cordyceps can be blended into smoothies and protein shakes or brewed into tea. This range is not associated with side effects and has been found to have certain health benefits. From fighting cancer to managing stress, these fungi are…. Researchers believe their antioxidant content may explain their anti-aging potential (9). Due to limited research in humans, there is no consensus on dosages. One study also tested the effects of a Cordyceps-containing mushroom blend on exercise performance in younger adults (6). There are no universal guidelines for the appropriate use of cordyceps or cordyceps supplements. There are other mushroom teas to try, such as ones made with lion's mane or reishi. Thus far, research into the performance-enhancing effects of cordyceps has yielded mixed results. The mushroom has a long, finger-like body and is usually a brown or orangish-brown color. VO2 max is a measurement used to determine fitness level (4). 3 Biotech. Cordyceps – Benefits, How it works, Side effects, Dosage. It is unclear whether long-term supplementation might further improve upon these results. Medicinal mushrooms are making their namesake for carrying a heavy dose of healing compounds. Here are 15 natural ways to lower your blood sugar levels. However, a long history of use in Traditional Chinese Medicine suggests they are nontoxic. Though the fungi show promise in many areas, there’s little research on their effects in humans. However, their potential health benefits are promising. There are 400 species of cordyceps, most of which are native to Bhutan, China, Korea, Nepal, Thailand, and Vietnam. Cordyceps Sinensis (now known as Ophiocordyceps) is a natural supplement touting some very impressive health benefits that have only been noticed by Western Medicine in the last 20 years or so. As a rule of thumb, never use more than the recommended dosage on the product label. The popular species in commercial products are Cordyceps sinensis, Cordyceps ophioglossoides, Cordyceps capita, and Cordyceps. This means it helps scavenge free radicals, or “rogue cells,” that can cause disease, degeneration, and damage in the body. Whats people lookup in this blog: Cordyceps Flower Benefits Each species will only invade a single species of insect. Like adenosine, cordycepin appears able to relax blood vessels, improving circulation and lowering blood pressure. Cordyceps tea is easily made by chopping up the mushroom into small pieces, or with cordyceps powder. Cordyceps are well known in Traditional Chinese Medicine and have been used for centuries to treat many health ailments. J Diet Suppl. The same benefits may be extended to the respiratory tract, according to a 2017 study from China. When taken daily, a cordyceps extract appears to relax airway constriction and improve quality of life measures in people with moderate to severe asthma. Similarly, Cordyceps have been shown to decrease triglyceride levels in mice (35). The Chinese use this flower, which is a genus of parasitic fungi in their cuisine due to its health benefits. In fact, studies have found that cordyceps are natural energizing adaptogens that boost immunity, prevent weakness, fight fatigue and stress, and improve exercise performance. The benefits of Cordyceps have also been linked to improved athletic performance. In a similar study, 20 healthy older adults received either 1 gram of CS-4 or a placebo pill for 12 weeks (5). It grows on larvae of insects and at the time the fungi bombard the host, they restore … In alternative medicine, cordyceps is often touted as a natural energy booster. In traditional Chinese medicine, it is called dong chong xia ca. Having high blood sugar levels is a common problem. In a bowl , combine cordyceps flowers , ginseng slices and wolfberries . Not to be confused with the cancer leukemia, leukopenia is a condition in which the number of white blood cells (leukocytes) decreases, lowering the body’s defenses and increasing the risk of infection (26). The most well-known medicinal species is Cordyceps sinensis (now known officially as Ophiocordyceps sinensis). If you are allergic to molds or yeast, you will likely be allergic to cordyceps and should steer well clear of them.. People on diabetes medications may need to avoid cordyceps as the combined use may result in an extreme drop in blood sugar (hypoglycemia). The fungi have been found to potentially boost energy and oxygen use during exercise. Can Sea Cucumber Treat Arthritis and Heart Disease? Herbal Medicine Cordyceps sinensis Improves Health-Related Quality of Life in Moderate-to-Severe Asthma. It is often used by holistic bodybuilders in protein shakes as a pre-workout energy booster. Cordyceps Militaris can help strengthen the immune system by stimulating natural killer cell activity. Jin, C.; Kim, G.; and Choi, Y. Increased efficie… militaris. Interestingly, Cordyceps may keep blood sugar levels within a healthy range by mimicking the action of insulin. The reason is that it is known for its anti-aging properties. Because cordyceps is a mushroom that is rich in antioxidants. Some are derived related cordyceps species, like C. militaris, or mixed with reishi mushrooms in varying concentrations. C. sinensis is a highly revered athletic tonic for its revitalizing effects on physical stamina, encourage increased lung capacity and promoting a performance-enhancing outcome. 3. Dosages in humans range from 1,000–3000 mg. Kan, W.; Wang, H.; Chien, C. et al. A 2010 study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine showed that supplementation with Cs-4 ( Cordyceps sinensis ) improved exercise performance and contributed to overall markers of wellness in older adults. Most supplements today are made from an engineered fungal culture that has the biological characteristics of C. sinesis but cannot produce the mushroom itself. Cordyceps are thought to increase the body’s production of the molecule adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is essential for delivering energy to the muscles. 2016;2011:1-13. People with bleeding disorders or who take anticoagulants ("blood thinners") or anti-clotting drugs may need to avoid cordyceps as well. Nevertheless, there have been human studies on Cordyceps’ effects on exercise performance. Simply mix one tablespoon of the powder or chopped up mushrooms into 1½ of hot water and allow to steep for 10 minutes. Meanwhile, a 2016 study from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill showed that daily cordyceps supplementation gradually increased the maximum oxygen intake (VO2 max) in young adults after three weeks. What it didn't change was the time to exhaustion (TTE) or the stage in exercise when breathing becomes labored (ventilatory threshold).