The Trip Continues- Cordyceps

Cordyceps Sinensis by thiswholeworld

Cordyceps/ Cordyceps sinensis/ Dong Chong Xia Cao – In recent years, this slender, long bodied mushroom has gained much attention in nutritional circles of the western world, but in Chinese Medicine, its use goes back over fifteen hundred years. Cordyceps is rich in the following compounds: cordycepin, cordycepic acid, glutamine, proline, phenylalanine, arginine, alanine, histidine, and vitamin B-12.

Cordyceps, like the other magic mushrooms in our discussion, has many benefits. They include the following: anti- bacterial, anti-viral, anti-tumor, anti-aging, anti-inflammatory, strengthens and modulates the immune system, lowers bad cholesterol (LDL and VLDL), raises good cholesterol (HDL), improves oxygen delivery to the heart and all muscles of the body, increases muscle strength and endurance with exercise, improves lung and kidney functioning, strengthens the reproductive system in men and women, increases libido, strengthens the adrenal glands, strengthens the metabolism, promotes healthy weight maintenance, and reduces fearful anxiety.

In supplement form, cordyceps can be taken very safely in the amount of three grams two to three times per day. It is best not taken with a high fever unless appropriately guided by a qualified Chinese or Western herbalist, naturopathic physician, or a holistic M.D. The best brands are Eclectic Institute and NAMMEX (1 800 952 7921). New Chapter is a good brand and is available at most natural food stores.

Good Health,
Joe

Joe has written several other articles on Superfoods and Phytonutrients, for other articles in this series see Navigating the Nutrition, The Magic Mushrooms, Magic Mushrooms: The Trip Continues and Green and Red Juices.