There are approximately 2,000 species of edible mushrooms. Of those many mushroom types, only about 15 varieties demonstrate health and wellness potential extending beyond their nutritional value –functional properties shown to support multiple wellness goals. Most functional mushrooms share one noteworthy feature. They have adaptogenic properties.
Adaptogens help your body bounce back from internal and external stress by downregulating or upregulating how your system responds. Cordyceps, an adaptogenic mushroom used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine, could be just what you need for a natural energy boost, overall endurance, focus, and more. After exploring the fungi’s diverse range of possible benefits, it’s easy to see the advantages of identifying the best time to take cordyceps to optimize your results.
Topic Overview: Exploring the Health and Wellness Potential of CordycepsÂ
Although mycologists have identified approximately 700 Cordyceps species, most researchers investigating the health and wellness potential of the adaptogenic mushroom focus on only two: Cordyceps sinensis (C. sinensis) and Cordyceps militaris (C. militaris). Cordyceps sinensis is quite rare and can cost up to $50,000 per pound because it’s harvested from ghost moth larvae by hand.
Cordyceps militaris, on the other hand, has the same composition as C. sinensis but is far more accessible. Most C militaris mushrooms are grown in a controlled environment utilizing a nutrient-rich substrate. Although most evidence supporting the use of cordyceps as a functional supplement is based on lab results, animal studies, and a limited (but growing) number of human trials, researchers have identified a diverse range of possible benefits.
Anti-Inflammatory PropertiesÂ
Researchers credit several bioactive components in cordyceps mushrooms for the fungi’s significant anti-inflammatory properties, its polysaccharides, modified nucleosides, cyclosporines, and cordycepin. Together, these compounds inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, help modulate immune system function, and interfere with the production of specific pro-inflammatory proteins.
Boosting Athletic Performance
Although some studies have produced mixed results, a growing body of evidence suggests cordyceps not only boosts athletic performance by expanding oxygen intake and increasing the production of ATP (adenosine triphosphate), its many mechanisms of action shown to support overall fitness goals could also contribute to nerve cell growth, cellular respiration, and other metabolic processes benefiting those who are more sedentary.
Enhancing Focus and Mental ClarityÂ
In addition to enhancing blood flow and energizing nearly every cell in the body by increasing ATP, cordyceps mushrooms also demonstrate several properties that could prove beneficial for enhancing mental clarity and focus. Several reports, for example, link the mushroom’s contributions to neurotransmitter regulation to enhanced creativity, memory support, and calming anxiety symptoms.
When to Take Cordyceps: Tips for Integrating the Supplement into Your RoutineÂ
Anecdotal evidence suggests the antioxidant effects of cordyceps could have a positive influence on skin health and the visible signs of aging. Researchers have also been exploring the mushroom’s possible benefits for cardiovascular function, high blood pressure, cholesterol levels, diabetes, and menopausal weight gain. Although most cordyceps research remains in the preliminary stages, the early findings look promising.
But it could take time for your system to adapt and respond to cordyceps supplements. Most adults, however, report favorable results within the first few days or weeks of integrating the supplement into their wellness routines. What that looks like is up to you. Some people choose daily supplementation; others use cordyceps capsules and gummies as needed for specific concerns. If you’re not quite sure where cordyceps would fit into your day – no worries. We have a few suggestions.
Add the Energizing Potential of Cordyceps to Breeze Through Your Morning
If you’re interested in using the adaptogenic mushroom for its many reported long-term contributions to overall health and well-being, consider adding a high-quality cordyceps capsule to your morning routine alongside your current supplement regimen. Their effects typically take up to an hour to peak but the fungi’s reported benefits for increasing energy levels and enhancing focus can last several hours.
Take Cordyceps Before Exercise to Enhance Your Performance and Support Recovery
Boosting ATP production with cordyceps could be just what you need to help increase your physical stamina and combat muscle fatigue. Preliminary evidence supporting the use of cordyceps supplements to enhance performance also suggests significant benefits for post-workout recovery. Consider taking a cordyceps supplement an hour or so before working out to help ensure optimal results.
Use Cordyceps for Enhancing Focus and Mental Clarity ProactivelyÂ
The key to achieving optimal results using cordyceps for focus and mental clarity requires identifying the triggers that drain your energy and make it difficult to focus and plan accordingly. Most experts, however, feel that the best time to take cordyceps falls somewhere between early morning and mid-afternoon, so its energizing effects don’t keep you awake or interfere with sleep quality.
Check Out the Cordyceps Products in Our Online Shop Today!
Cordyceps is a functional mushroom that’s generally well-tolerated and safe for most adults. But like any other natural supplement, side effects are possible. Some cordyceps users report dry mouth, nausea, headaches, or abdominal bloating. You can reduce your risk of developing unpleasant symptoms by choosing high-quality, lab-tested supplements and starting with a smaller serving size.
For high-quality, rigorously tested cordyceps, check out the selection of products offered at Carolina HEMP Cabinet – North Carolina’s premier destination for functional mushroom supplements. Whether you’re visiting our storefront on Mt Molly-Huntersville Rd in Charlotte or shopping online, our knowledgeable staff is committed to helping you make informed decisions about integrating our impressive selection of wellness products into your daily routine.
If you have questions about the best time of day to take cordyceps we haven’t covered, call 980-322-2199 or submit a contact form. If you have medical concerns or take medication, consult your healthcare provider before adding functional supplements to your wellness routine.
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