Laura Smith
Cordyceps is a parasitic fungus that grows on insect larvae and contains various components that may be beneficial to health. It has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries to treat fatigue, sickness, kidney disease, and low sex drive. Cordyceps mushroom elixirs are health supplements that contain cordyceps extract and are often blended with other ingredients such as rose hips, schisandra, and field mint. These elixirs are marketed as coffee alternatives and claim to provide energy and support athletic performance. While some consumers have reported positive experiences, others have noticed no significant difference compared to other mushroom additives. The potential health benefits of cordyceps mushroom elixirs include improved immunity, anti-cancer properties, and enhanced respiratory and immune system health. However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before consuming these elixirs, especially for individuals with specific health conditions or those taking medication.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type | Parasitic fungi that grows on insect larvae |
| Scientific Name | Cordyceps Sinensis and Cordyceps Militaris |
| Benefits | May increase the body's production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is essential for delivering energy to the muscles; May improve the way the body uses oxygen, especially during exercise; May have adaptogenic properties, helping the body cope better with stress; May have antioxidant properties; May increase collagen production in the skin; May slow tumour growth; May improve immunity by stimulating cells and specific chemicals in the immune system; May help fight cancer cells and shrink tumour size, particularly with lung or skin cancers; May control hypoglycaemic activity and blood sugar levels; May catalyse the anti-depressant workings of the body; May have antibacterial, antiviral, and detoxifying properties; May improve respiratory and immune system health; May promote vitality, stamina, endurance, strength, and anti-fatigue; May support overall well-being |
| Uses | Coffee alternative; Dietary supplement; Medicine |
| Dietary Requirements | Vegan, Whole30, dairy-free, gluten-free, keto, paleo |
| Dosage | 3-6 grams daily for up to 1 year |
| Side Effects | May cause mild gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhoea, constipation, and stomach discomfort; May increase the risk of bleeding during surgery; May increase the activity of the immune system, which could worsen symptoms of auto-immune diseases; May increase testosterone levels |
| Precautions | Not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or health condition; Not suitable for pregnant or breastfeeding women; Not suitable for individuals with auto-immune diseases; Stop taking 2 weeks before surgery |
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What You'll Learn
Cordyceps mushroom elixir's health benefits
Cordyceps mushroom elixirs are health supplements that are believed to have numerous benefits. They are made from cordyceps, a genus of parasitic fungi that grows on insect larvae, particularly caterpillars in the high mountain regions of China.
Cordyceps mushroom elixirs are said to promote overall wellness and vitality. They are purported to support respiratory health and immune system function, which further underscores their role in promoting vitality and graceful aging. They are also believed to increase the body's production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is essential for delivering energy to the muscles. This may improve the way the body uses oxygen, especially during exercise. For example, in a 2024 study, 14 young adults were given either a placebo or 1 gram (g) of cordyceps before a high-intensity interval exercise session. The researchers found that those who took cordyceps had less muscle damage and faster cell repair, allowing for quicker recovery.
Cordyceps mushroom elixirs are also said to have antioxidant properties, as they contain polyphenols, which can act as antioxidants or help boost antioxidant activity. Antioxidants are molecules that fight cell damage by neutralizing free radicals, which can otherwise contribute to disease and aging. A 2024 study that analyzed cordyceps extract in a test tube and then tested it in a clinical trial with 40 human participants found that the fungus may have adaptogenic properties, meaning it may help the body cope better with stress.
In addition to the above, cordyceps mushroom elixirs are believed to have other benefits, including controlling hypoglycaemic activity and blood sugar levels, catalyzing the anti-depressant workings of the body, and detoxifying the body. They are also said to have antibacterial and antiviral powers, and to support proper circulation of blood within the body. However, it is important to note that while cordyceps has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries, more research on humans is needed to confirm many of its purported health benefits.
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The elixir's ingredients
The Four Sigmatic Cordyceps Mushroom Elixir is a popular product that contains organic cordyceps mushroom powder, rose hips, and schisandra. It is a coffee alternative that is perfect for all diets, including vegan, Whole30, dairy-free, and gluten-free. It has strong antioxidant properties due to the presence of the fruiting bodies of vegan cordyceps and organic schisandra.
The Super Mushroom Cordyceps Elixir is another option that contains both fruiting body and mycelia extracts to create a full-spectrum Cordyceps formula. This elixir is crafted for daily use and is suitable for adults 18 and older. It has an earthy, herbal flavor that blends well with water, tea, or smoothies.
Other ingredients that may be found in cordyceps mushroom elixirs include licorice root, field mint, stevia, and ginseng. These elixirs are typically vegan, gluten-free, non-GMO, and free from sugar, alcohol, artificial colors, and fillers.
It is important to note that while cordyceps has many potential health benefits, more research is needed to confirm its effects on humans. Some mild side effects such as diarrhea, constipation, and stomach discomfort have been reported, and it may not be safe for those who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
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How to use the elixir
The Cordyceps mushroom elixir is a health supplement that is believed to promote overall wellness and vitality. It is said to support respiratory health, immune system function, and improve energy and athletic performance.
Preparation
The elixir is typically sold in liquid form and can be easily mixed with water, tea, or smoothies. It has an earthy, herbal flavour and can be drunk at any time of the day, with or without a meal.
Dosage
The recommended dosage is two full droppers (around 0.1 oz) of liquid, which should be added to an 8 oz cup of water. For faster absorption, put two droppers of the elixir under your tongue for one minute and then swallow.
Frequency
The elixir is crafted for daily use and each bottle typically contains 30 servings, which is a one-month supply.
Dietary Requirements
The elixir is vegan, dairy-free, gluten-free, and keto-friendly. It does not contain any artificial flavours, carriers, fillers, or natural flavours.
Precautions
Although cordyceps are believed to be safe for most people when taken in doses of 3-6 grams daily for up to a year, there have been some reports of mild side effects such as diarrhoea, constipation, and stomach discomfort. It is recommended that you consult a doctor before taking the elixir if you have health concerns or are on medication. It is also not recommended for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding due to a lack of research in these areas.
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The elixir's taste
The elixirs taste like tea, not mushrooms, and can be drunk with 8 fluid ounces of hot water. Some users have also suggested adding a splash of coconut milk, almond cream, or raw dairy to enhance the flavour.
The Four Sigmatic Cordyceps Mushroom Elixir is also said to taste good with coffee. However, one user review on Amazon states that they did not notice a difference in taste when adding it to their coffee, compared to other mushroom additives.
Tryauri's Super Mushroom Cordyceps Elixir has a light, earthy, herbal flavour that blends easily with water, tea, or smoothies.
The elixirs are also available in powder form, which can be stirred into drinks or baked into foods.
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Safety and side effects
Cordyceps mushroom elixir is a health supplement that is marketed as a coffee alternative. It is made from organic cordyceps mushroom powder, rose hips, and schisandra. It is said to have antioxidant properties and to support energy and athletic performance.
Cordyceps is a genus of parasitic fungi that grows on insect larvae. It has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries to treat fatigue, sickness, kidney disease, and low sex drive. However, there is limited research on its effects on humans, and more safety testing is needed. While some studies suggest that cordyceps may be safe for most people when taken in doses of 3-6 grams daily for up to 1 year, it might cause mild side effects such as diarrhoea, constipation, and stomach discomfort. It is not recommended for people with "auto-immune diseases" such as multiple sclerosis (MS), lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or other conditions as it may increase the symptoms of these diseases. It is also not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women, as there is not enough information to know if it is safe for them. In addition, cordyceps may increase the risk of bleeding during surgery, so it is important to stop taking it before any scheduled procedures.
While cordyceps has been shown to have potential health benefits, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any new supplement, especially for those with existing medical conditions or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
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Frequently asked questions
Cordyceps mushroom elixir is a health supplement that contains cordyceps, a parasitic fungus that grows on insect larvae. It is often used as a coffee alternative and is said to have various health benefits.
Cordyceps mushroom elixir is said to have many health benefits, including improved respiratory health, increased energy levels, improved athletic performance, and improved immune system function. It is also believed to have antioxidant properties and may help protect against certain types of cancer.
Cordyceps mushroom elixir is generally considered safe for most people when consumed in doses of 3-6 grams daily for up to one year. However, it may cause mild side effects such as diarrhoea, constipation, and stomach discomfort. It is not recommended for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, as the effects are unknown. Individuals with certain auto-immune diseases should also avoid cordyceps, as it may increase the symptoms of these conditions.
