It's likely you've heard about this secret tip for more strength and vitality in the gym lately - Cordyceps sinensis. But what can this mushroom from the Tibetan highlands really do? We're getting to the bottom of it.
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The Chinese Caterpillar Fungus - Caterpillar or Fungus?
The so-called caterpillar fungus can be found at altitudes between 3000 and 5000 m. Stimulated by the moisture of the spring monsoon, the fruiting bodies of the fungi are ready for harvest from approximately April to July. It gets its name from the fact that it infects caterpillars lying in the soil and feeds on them. The caterpillars remain as empty mummified shells, from which the fruiting body of the fungus grows.
The fungus is now cultivated, and no caterpillars are sacrificed for it. Taking Cordyceps is therefore also suitable for vegetarians and vegans.
What effect does Cordyceps have on the body?
For thousands of years, Cordyceps has been considered a remedy in traditional Chinese medicine for fatigue, coughs, low libido, and kidney problems. After the 1993 World Athletics Championships, the Chinese Athletics Association announced that the success of its athletes, who had set several records, was also due to taking the vital mushroom.

The effect of Cordyceps in the focus of science
Numerous studies have already been conducted on the effects of Cordyceps. The results are truly very promising. Among other things, the following has been observed:
- Cordyceps has a toxic effect on cancer cells but none on healthy cells. This suggests that it could be used as an adjunct to chemotherapy.
- The fungus has been shown to have both immune-boosting and immunosuppressive properties. This means it can support the immune system of healthy people but also help with autoimmune diseases. Furthermore, it also has a positive effect on the gut flora, which is enormously important for the immune system.
- It has antioxidant properties, meaning it protects cells from oxidative stress.
- The vital mushroom can lower blood sugar levels and at the same time prevent them from dropping too low. This makes it a possible remedy for people with diabetes mellitus.
- Cordyceps has similar properties to St. John's wort, which is why it could be used against depression.
- In mice, feeding the fungus resulted in an increase in testosterone levels. It is assumed that this effect also occurs in humans, thereby increasing potency.
- Energy levels increase with the intake of the fungus, as it enables cells to utilize oxygen more efficiently. For this reason, many people take Cordyceps to support their training.
- It has liver and kidney-protective properties.
- Furthermore, it contains several unsaturated fatty acids that benefit the body.
Who should take Cordyceps vital mushroom capsules?
Depending on the effect you hope to achieve from the vital mushroom, a combination with other plants, vitamins, or minerals may be beneficial.
- for male libido and hormone balance, a combination with Maca, Tribulus, and black garlic is suitable. Maca is also considered a natural potency enhancer, while Tribulus and black garlic are known for vitality and heart health.
- for fatigue and exhaustion, the vital mushroom Reishi and ginseng are suitable. The latter has been proven to work against signs of fatigue.
- if you want to take Cordyceps for your liver and kidneys, it is best to combine it with bitter substances. They also have a positive effect on these organs. Milk thistle, for example, is very suitable for this.

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Since no side effects are known for this miraculous fungus, its intake is harmless. However, if you take medication regularly or suffer from chronic illnesses, you should still discuss its use with your doctor.
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