Cordyceps: A Disease Fighting Fungus
Cordyceps is a fungus that lives on certain caterpillars in the high mountain regions of China. Supplement makers are able to get enough of the product to sell, because cordyceps will reproduce in the laboratory. Cordyceps is used to treat coughs, chronic bronchitis, respiratory disorders, kidney disorders, nighttime urination, male sexual problems, anemia, irregular heartbeat, high cholesterol, liver disorders, dizziness, weakness, ringing in the ears, unwanted weight loss and opium addiction.
It is also used for strengthening the immune system, improving athletic performance, reducing the effects of aging, promoting longer life and improving liver function in people with hepatitis B. Some people use cordyceps as a stimulant, a tonic and an “adaptogen,” which is used to increase energy, enhance stamina and reduce fatigue.
Further, according to Nathalie Valkov, PhD, LAC and author of Cordyceps: Treating Diabetes, Cancer and Other Illnesses, cordyceps has been used in Eastern medicine for centuries to aid in the treatment of various autoimmune, pulmonary, cardiovascular and other illnesses.
