It is the fungus of the series The Last of Us. In Chinese medicine, it is given powerful and invigorating properties for kidneys and lungs.
In the successful series The Last of Us, humans are struck hard by a lightning epidemic caused by the cordycepts 20 years earlier. If it is a fiction, this pathogenic fungus has been popularized with the general public. What are its health benefits? And on the contrary its dangers?
What is the cordyceps?
“”The Cordyceps is a Chinese pharmacopoeia ingredient, Just like the leaves, roots or ingredients of animal, vegetable (leaves, roots) or mineral. It is neither really a plant nor really an animal. In practice, The fungus colonizes a caterpillar larva. What is called the cordycepts is the result of the symbiosis between the fungus and the caterpillar, which gradually dries up in contact. The cordyceps is therefore on the border between the animal world and the plant world. In a way, we use the dry larva. In traditional medicine, the Chinese call the cordycepts Dōng Chóng Xià Cǎo (insect in winter and plants in summer)“, Details Marie-Anne Dupont, trainer at the FLETC, the free faculty of traditional Chinese energy.
Is this fungus present in France?
The cordycepts has the distinction of belonging to two kingdoms: vegetable and animal. “”Originally, we find it in Asian mountains, especially at Tibet (Himalayan chain). The cordycepts is very rare, so it is very expensive. In China, the cordycepts is cultivated, but it does not have the same properties as the wild cordyce. To my knowledgewe do not find this type of culture in France“, indicates the teacher.
Is the cordycepts dangerous for humans?
“”The ingredients for Chinese pharmacopoeia are prepared to cancel their possible toxicity. It is a millennial know-how. In itself, The fungus is not dangerous for humans. In addition, we do not find it in nature in France “, explains Marie-Anne Dupont. According to the trainer in traditional Chinese medicine, avoid consuming the cordycepts when the person does not know their land. “”In traditional Chinese medicine, there are hot and cold ground. And when you tend to be hot, it is better to avoid consuming the cordycepts, at the risk of increasing body heat and lead to an interior imbalance“warns the trainer.”The cordycepts is not indicated in people who are often hot or tend to sweat at nightbecause it brings even more heat to the body “.
What are the benefits of the cordycepts?
The Cordyceps is a powerful toning. In traditional Chinese medicine, the cordycepts is hot in nature: It warms the body and revives energy. Sweet flavor, the cordycepts makes it possible to circulate the energy, what is called Qi, In case of significant fatigue for example. It is also perfect for chilly people who tend to enlist easily. The cordyceps reinforces the Yang side of the body by accelerating metabolism and raising bodily energy. “”The cordycepts has an action on the kidneys and on the lungs. In traditional Chinese medicine, the kidney is linked to aging. They say that The Cordycepts is an anti-agingbecause it strengthens the energy of the kidneys. However, if the kidneys work well, the body ages more slowly. Chinese energy practitioners will advise him In the event of kidney problems, for reproduction, fertility, improvement of libido and menstruation. We consider that the lungs are friends of the heart: they support him in his function of blood propeller. In traditional Chinese medicine, lungs are the masters of energy. The Cordyceps, by acting on the lungs, can be a support In the event of a heart condition. It is also a precious ally in the event of asthma, allergy, rhinitis, expectorations or disorders of the ENT sphere“, Details Marie-Anne Dupont. And add:”In China, research takes place on The benefits of the Cordyceps on cancer. Chinese doctors have recourse to anti -cancer treatments or to help their patients Better support the effects of chemotherapy“.
According to the trainer in traditional Chinese medicine, “French laboratories import this legendary fungus from Asia. The cordyceps is reduced to powder, then packaged in the form of capsules“. In any case, before consuming the fungus, The pharmacist’s opinion is required. Ideally, a consultation with a Chinese energy therapist is recommended. Only this professional is empowered to define a person’s land thanks to an energy balance.
Thanks to Marie-Anne Dupont, trainer at the free Chinese traditional faculty.