5 Interesting Facts About Cordyceps Mushrooms
The cordyceps mushroom is certainly a strange specimen. It has a grasslike and sometimes phallic-like appearance and many unique qualities that make it highly prized. While it has been used in Chinese medicine for centuries, cordyceps in NZ have become increasingly popular. This species truly has a lot to offer, and in the article, we’ll be having a look at some cordyceps facts that may surprise you!
Certain Animals Enjoy the High Offered By Cordyceps
Humans are not the only ones who enjoy a bit of a mushroom buzz. There have been reports of yaks becoming very energetic and playful after munching on these mushrooms in the wild. There have not been extensive studies done on this, but it is likely that other animals enjoy a bit of cordyceps too.
A Royal Treat
Harvesting cordyceps is very precarious because of where this specimen typically grows in the wild. It usually involves scaling rocky cliffs just to reach a few specimens. It is also rather scarce. For this reason, the mushroom was very prized in ancient China and Tibet, and it was reserved as a treat only fit for emperors.
Not a Worm, and Not a Grass
The Chinese name for cordyceps literally means ‘Winter Worm, Summer Grass’. While this is a very vivid and descriptive name for the mushroom, it is neither a worm nor a grass but a unique fungus that actually feeds on a worm! Furthermore, grasslike shoots tend to grow from the head of the mushroom in the summer months, thus giving its name.
Athlete’s Favourite
Many world athletes and even Olympic gold medalists have been known to include cordyceps into their training diet because of the natural energy boost that it offers. It is exceptionally popular among Chinese athletes.
Are you looking to buy cordyceps in NZ? Here at Flow State, we offer various functional mushroom blends that contain cordyceps. Please feel free to browse our website and view our extensive options. And remember, we deliver throughout New Zealand. Start enjoying the health benefits of cordyceps in NZ today!
Athlete’s Favourite - defining moment at the Olympics
For centuries, mushrooms have played a pivotal role in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). However, it wasn't until a groundbreaking moment at the 1993 Olympics that the wider world caught a glimpse of mushrooms' potent medicinal capabilities.
During these games, the Chinese women's Olympic running team had broken world records in the 1,500, 3,000, and 10,000-meter races, sparking allegations of steroid use.
The suspicions of doping were quickly dispelled when tests confirmed the absence of steroids. The team's coach then disclosed a natural secret to their success: the consumption of the medicinal mushroom cordyceps.
He had advised his athletes to take this supplement following their training sessions. Cordyceps, known for its ability to boost energy levels and metabolic rate, also aids in respiratory health, significantly contributing to the runners' outstanding performance.
This revelation not only cleared the athletes of doping allegations but also highlighted the significant role of alternative medicine in enhancing both immune and physical health.