For millennia, Cordyceps has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for its numerous benefits on health.
Recently, this mushroom has attracted increasing interest in the sports world.
But are these benefits scientifically proven, particularly in terms of sports performance?
Our articleFrench Mush looks at the different aspects of this strange mushroom.
Origin and history of Cordyceps
Tibetan legends
More than 3,000 years ago, Yak herders in Tibet noticed that some of their beasts were more robust and agile than others.
It was while analyzing pastures located between 4000 and 5000 meters above sea level that they discovered a curious mushroom, cordyceps sinensis.
Since then, farmers have started using this mushroom for themselves, quickly seeing an increase in their own energy and vitality.
A medicinal treasure in China
The fame of Cordyceps quickly spread to China where it became prized among the elites.
It is also traditionally used to strengthen the functions of the kidneys, liver and lungs, and was also used to stimulate sexual function and support convalescents.
The active compounds of Cordyceps
Cordycepin: a powerful ally
The main active compound in cordyceps is cordycepin.
This nucleoside has various pharmacological properties, including antimicrobial, antioxidant and energetic properties.
Cordycepin plays an essential role in increasing cellular energy by stimulating the production of ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate), the universal energy molecule of living cells .
Other beneficial compounds
- Nutrients: Cordyceps contains various essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals that contribute to its exceptional nutritional profile.
- Polysaccharides: These molecules have immunomodulatory properties, helping to strengthen the immune system.
- Saponins: They offer anti-inflammatory and cardioprotective effects.
Cordyceps and sports performance
Recent scientific studies
Several studies have looked at the effects of cordyceps on athletic performance.
Therefore, the results show that Cordyceps supplements can improve endurance by increasing maximal oxygen consumption (VO2Max).
A study of cyclists found that after consuming Cordyceps for six weeks, some participants observed a significant improvement in their VO2Max, reflecting improved aerobic capacity.
Hypothetical mechanisms of action
Cordyceps may act by optimizing oxygen use and reducing fatigue.
It helps increase the natural production of ATP, providing more energy to the muscles.
On the other hand, its anti-inflammatory properties could help in faster recovery after intensive training sessions.
Use and recommended dosage
Classic dosage
Traditionally, it is recommended to take between 5 to 10 grams of cordyceps powder per day.
You will find all the recommended dosages on each of our mushroom product sheets.
Precautions for use
Although generally considered safe, French Mush advises you to consult a healthcare practitioner before starting any new supplement, especially if you have pre-existing medical conditions or are taking of medicines.
In summary
Cordyceps stands out not only for its fascinating origin and traditional uses, but also for its promising potential in the field of sports performance.
So, although there are encouraging indications of the benefits of Cordyceps for athletes, we recommend that you adopt this supplement with caution and ideally under medical supervision if you have a medical history
Discover Cordyceps in capsule and powder form now at French Mush .
Sources :
VO 2 Max Improvement of 96% in a Non-Elite Recreational Athlete over 24 Months
Daniel Laury, MD1,2,3 and Armin Tehrany, MD4,5
Anti-inflammatory effects of cordycepin: A review
Lu Tan, Xiaominting Song, Yali Ren, Miao Wang, Chuanjie Guo, Dale Guo, Yucheng Gu, Yuzhi Li, Zhixing Cao, Yun Deng
TJ Inherits, ED Ryan, JR Stout, JT Cramer
E Choi, J Oh, GH Sung - Mycobiology, 2020 - Taylor & Francis
