Introduced to the US in the mid-19th century, Cordyceps is farmed at high altitudes for medicinal use. Although not actually a mushroom, but rather a rare combination of a caterpillar and a parasitic fungus, it is often described as a medicinal mushroom. The base of the fungus first originates in an insect larval host ( Hepialusarmoricanus) and ends at a club-like cap. The fruit body is brown to black. When mature, the fungus consumes more than 90% of the infected insect and mummifies the host. Cordyceps contains all amino acids, and vitamins E, K, and B. It is used by professional athletes the world over.
WHERE IT CAN BE FOUND:
Tibet, China, Hawaii
PROPERTIES AND USE:
Anti-aging, aphrodisiac, adaptogen, tonic, anti-inflammatory, and treats diabetes, hepatitis, kidney disease, cancer, heart disease, cough, colds, bronchitis, male impotence, insomnia, anemia, fatigue, muscle pain, anemia, kidney disorders, dizziness, high cholesterol, heart arrhythmias, Lyme disease
TRADITIONAL PREPARATION:
For all ailments, add 1 teaspoon cordyceps sinensis powder to 1 cup hot water, hot chocolate, or coffee.
