There are different adaptogenic mushroom powders. Today, we're talking to you about Cordyceps powder. Cordyceps is an ancestral medicinal mushroom widely used in traditional Chinese medicine. And for good reason, it contains multiple health benefits. So, what are the virtues of Cordyceps powder ? How is it obtained? What is its composition? What does science say about it? Explanations.
Cordyceps powder, its multiple health benefits
The Cordyceps powder is obtained from the Cordyceps mushroom. It offers multiple health benefits. Cordyceps is a adaptogenic mushroom rich in protein. De facto, it contributes to strengthening muscles and maintaining bone health. Cordyceps also has potential antioxidant properties and toning capabilities. Regarding its antioxidant power, current research is not yet complete enough. But scientists have demonstrated that polysaccharides have antioxidant activity on mice by increasing the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), catalase (CAT) and the capacity total antioxidant (T-AOC). Another study showed that polysaccharides can extend the average lifespan of Drosophila by slowing down the oxidation effect. The various studies carried out also show that Cordyceps is a mushroom particularly indicated for supporting natural defenses and calming inflammation. It has been scientifically proven that mycelium of the Cordyceps mushroom has anti-inflammatory properties. To come to this conclusion, the researchers fermented, dried and ground the mycelium into powder before soaking it in water for 2 hours at room temperature. Then the extract was centrifuged and the supernatant was filtered to obtain the aqueous extract with anti-inflammatory properties.
Did you know ?
The mycelium is the vegetative part of the fungus which is made up of a mass of branched and filiform hyphae. Mycelia form a network of fungal filaments.
What is the composition of the Cordyceps powder ?
The champignon Cordyceps East rich in minerals such as magnesium, zinc, potassium, iron, selenium and manganese. On the other hand, it contains significant quantities of vitamins. We can cite vitamin E, vitamin B and vitamin K in particular. Its natural composition is also rich in amino acids et polysaccharides. Finally, like all adaptogenic mushrooms, Cordyceps includes beta glucans, fiber and carbohydrates. But other elements are also present in its composition. These are bioactive substances, adenine and cordycepin. On the other hand, scientists have noted the presence of flavonoids in Cordyceps. Flavonoids have been previously reported in plants, but rarely in fungi. They have a variety of biological activities such as anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and improving the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease. Regardless type de Cordyceps we find these components. However, each variety of Cordyceps has its own particularities.
The different varieties of cordyceps powders
There are three Cordyceps sorts, which is why you can find mushroom powders for each of the varieties. All three varieties have health benefits. But you should know that we do not yet know the full extent of its benefits because they are constantly the subject of mycological studies.
-The cordyceps powder sinensis
● Cordyceps sinensis is on the list of authorized food supplements by the European Commission. It can be consumed in different forms, including in the form of powder to add to drinks. Recently, researchers have highlighted the positive effects of Cordyceps sinensis on tumors. In an experiment on mice, they found that Cordyceps sinensis could inhibit tumor growth by promoting macrophage polarization and improve its activity by activating the NF-κB signaling pathway.
-The Cordyceps powder military
● The Cordyceps military is a variety that was developed and cultivated by scientists. It is also included on the list of food supplements. You will easily find Cordyceps powder militaris. A recent study showed that Cordyceps militaris powder tended to increase urinary flow, decrease the size of the prostate gland and alleviate urination symptoms while having a positive effect on the sexual functions. And in February 2023, the International Journal of Biological Macromolecules reports that acidic polysaccharides from Cordyceps militaris improve learning and memory impairment in mice suffering from physical fatigue.
-The Cordyceps powder Paecilomyces hepiali
● Finally, there is the Cordyceps Paecilomyces hepiali which is a derivative of Cordyceps sinensis. The Paecilomyces hepiali is an edible mushroom with pharmacological interest. Its main bioactive constituents contain alkaloids, cyclic dipeptides, steroids, organic acids and polysaccharides. Due to the enormous development potential of P. hepiali in the field of food and medicine, it has been developed into a variety of products that meet the needs of the public. It is also found in the form of powder.
How to use the Cordyceps powder ?
To take the Cordyceps powder it is very simple. Just add a little mushroom powder in his drink. You can also sprinkle it on your raw vegetables or dishes at the last minute.