Does Cordyceps Increase Testosterone? (Hint: It's Called Natural Viagra)
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Time to read 8 min
If you're looking to boost testosterone levels and enhance performance in the gym or bedroom, cordyceps supplements may be your secret weapon. Does cordyceps increase testosterone?
Yes, studies suggest that this nootropic mushroom can act as a testosterone booster, potentially improving erectile dysfunction and male performance.
This energy-enhancing mushroom, particularly cordyceps militaris, has been utilized for centuries in Traditional Chinese Medicine to enhance libido and sex drive, earning it the nickname “natural Viagra.”
In this article, we'll explore the benefits of cordyceps for males, including how to leverage its potential for testosterone support, dosage recommendations, and practical tips for incorporating these powerful mushroom supplements for testosterone into your routine.
Table of Contents
The Cordyceps Testosterone Connection How Does Cordyceps Work? What is the Best Cordyceps Dosage for ED? Is Cordyceps Safe for Everyone? How to Choose a High Quality Cordyceps Supplement Whole Mushroom Powder vs. Mushroom Extract Fruiting Body Supplements vs. Mycelium Supplements Labeling and Transparency Other Natural Supplements to Boost Testosterone Conclusion: Can You Use Cordyceps for Testosterone Boost? Resources
Key Takeaways
Cordyceps supplements may have the potential to boost testosterone levels and improve sexual function, based on research conducted on mice and rats.
These mushrooms could also offer longevity benefits by balancing male hormone levels.
Understanding how to properly choose a high-quality mushroom supplement and use it correctly is essential.
The Cordyceps Testosterone Connection
While the research on cordyceps and testosterone is still in its early stages, exciting findings from studies on mice and rats suggest that cordyceps mushrooms have the potential to give your testosterone levels a healthy boost.
A 2020 study published in BioMed Research International explored the effects of cordyceps mushroom cultures on rats, revealing promising benefits such as enhanced testosterone levels, improved erection and testicular function, and increased sex drive.
This intriguing fungus might not only help improve sexual function but also provide longevity benefits by inhibiting hypogonadism and prostate hypertrophy—two conditions that can affect your ability to achieve and maintain healthy erections—by aiding in the maintenance of androgen levels as you age.
Additionally, cordyceps supplements have been found to enhance athletic performance by increasing blood flow.
How Does Cordyceps Work?
The underlying mechanisms behind cordyceps’ potential benefits are not yet fully understood, but they are often linked to cordycepin, a bio-metabolite that’s found only in a few forms of Cordyceps mushroom, particularly in Cordyceps Militaris, the form that’s most often used in wellness supplements today.
Cordycepin was originally investigated for its antibiotic potential, but that research reveals a much wider range of potential benefits. A review published in 2020 stated:
“Cordycepin is known for various nutraceutical and therapeutic potential, such as anti-diabetic, anti-hyperlipidemia, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, antioxidant, anti-aging, anticancer, antiviral, hepato-protective, hypo-sexuality, cardiovascular diseases, antimalarial, anti-osteoporotic, anti-arthritic, cosmeceutical etc. which makes it a most valuable medicinal mushroom for helping in maintaining good health.”
Moreover, Cordyceps is a superfood mushroom that contains plenty of beta-glucans, the bioactive mushroom polysaccharides responsible for the health benefits of most functional mushrooms.
Cordyceps also contains many different terpenoids, a modified classification of terpenes. These are lipids that are believed to give various mushrooms their immunomodulatory benefits.
Plus, they act as a sort of daily multivitamin dose since they contain a decent bit of fiber, antioxidants, and numerous vitamins that can help amp up your wellness routine, including:
- B-complex vitamins
- Vitamin D
- Potassium
- Rubidium
- Cesium
- Amino acids
- Fiber
- Copper
- Selenium
- Zinc
- Iron
- Manganese
- Magnesium
- Calcium
What is the Best Cordyceps Dosage for ED?
Determining the right cordyceps dosage for erectile dysfunction (ED) or to boost testosterone is crucial. Current guidelines suggest a daily intake of 1 to 3 grams of cordyceps extract.
If using whole cordyceps powder, you may need a higher dosage and should steep it in hot water to make the beta-glucans digestible . For optimal cordyceps benefits for male health, it's recommended to use a high-quality cordyceps testosterone booster supplement instead of whole mushroom powder.
Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen, especially if you have specific health conditions or are taking medications.
Is Cordyceps Safe for Everyone?
While cordyceps testosterone supplements are generally safe for most individuals, mushroom supplement side effects are possible.
The most common cordyceps risks include drug interactions, mushroom allergies, and blood pressure reactions.
Those with diabetes, cancer, or any bleeding disorder should avoid using cordyceps, as it may slow down blood clotting. It's also advised to discontinue cordyceps at least two weeks prior to any scheduled surgery.
Consulting with your doctor is crucial to ensure that cordyceps supplements fit into your wellness regimen and do not interact with your current medications.
To ensure a safe experience with cordyceps, always select a high-quality product.
How to Choose a High Quality Cordyceps Supplement
When considering mushroom supplements, it's crucial to discern between options to ensure you receive the full spectrum of benefits. Here are key factors to weigh:
Whole Mushroom Powder vs. Mushroom Extract
- Whole Mushroom Powder: This form includes the entire mushroom, retaining all its natural nutrients and compounds. While akin to consuming a whole fruit, it may lack the necessary beta glucans that provide therapeutic benefits.
- Mushroom Extract: Extracts are concentrated and contain specific anxiety-alleviating compounds. The extraction process enhances bioavailability, ensuring consistent and potent results. However, extracts often omit the fiber and other nutritional components found in whole mushroom products.
Fruiting Body Supplements vs. Mycelium Supplements
- Fruiting Body Supplements: Derived from the mature part of the mushroom, fruiting body supplements are richer in the sought-after therapeutic compounds, making them ideal for addressing health concerns.
- Mycelium Supplements: Mycelium, the mushroom's root system, may not offer the same anxiety-relief benefits as fruiting body supplements. Some companies use mycelium to reduce costs, but this may compromise the therapeutic potential.
Labeling and Transparency
When choosing a mushroom supplement for anxiety, prioritize transparency and thorough product information:
- Look for supplements from reputable manufacturers that provide clear details about sourcing, extraction methods, and quality control practices.
- Ensure the label specifies the mushroom species used, whether it's whole mushroom powder or an extract, and the source (fruiting body or mycelium).
- Aim for a beta glucan content of around 20% or more for effective anxiety support.
- Verify third-party testing for purity and potency.
Opting for products with transparent labeling empowers you to make an informed decision and trust the quality of your chosen mushroom supplement.
When to Take Cordyceps
The best time to take cordyceps depends on your goals. Since cordyceps is known for boosting energy, endurance, and circulation, it’s typically taken in the morning or before physical activity. However, some people also take cordyceps before bed to support recovery and overall wellness.
Different cordyceps types may influence timing. Cordyceps mushroom powder can be easily added to coffee, smoothies, or pre-workout drinks for a daytime energy boost. Capsules or tinctures offer a convenient option anytime.
If your goal is enhanced stamina and testosterone support, experiment with when to take cordyceps based on your lifestyle—morning for energy, before workouts for performance, or at night for recovery.
Other Natural Supplements to Boost Testosterone
In addition to cordyceps, several other natural supplements have shown potential in boosting testosterone levels and enhancing sexual function. These supplements can be valuable additions to your wellness routine:
- Lion's Mane: Lion's Mane mushroom may improve libido and join cordyceps as one of the best mushrooms for men.
- Ashwagandha: An adaptogenic herb known to potentially enhance testosterone levels and improve fertility.
- Tribulus Terrestris: Recognized for its ability to boost testosterone levels and enhance sexual function.
- Fenugreek: May help increase testosterone levels and improve physical performance.
- Tongkat Ali: Believed to enhance testosterone levels and improve sexual performance.
-
Ginkgo Biloba: Known for its potential to improve blood circulation, which can support overall sexual health and function.
These supplements, when used responsibly and in consultation with a healthcare professional, may aid in supporting testosterone levels and improving aspects of sexual health. It's important to understand that individual responses may vary, and it's advisable to carefully consider any potential risks or interactions.
Conclusion: Can You Use Cordyceps for Testosterone Boost?
In summary, cordyceps mushrooms have shown promise in boosting testosterone levels and enhancing sexual function based on animal studies.
While they can be a valuable addition to your health routine, it’s essential to use cordyceps supplements with caution, particularly if you have underlying health issues. Always seek advice from a healthcare professional, as individual responses may vary and potential risks and interactions should be considered.
As research on cordyceps and testosterone continues, we can expect a clearer understanding of these supplements. For now, responsible use and informed choices are key to improving sexual health and increasing testosterone levels , guided by health experts to ensure your well-being.
If you want to take full advantage of the "functional" side of functional mushrooms, consider a mushroom super-blend like our Lucid Coffee, Chai, or Matcha powders. It takes full advantage of the benefits of these superfood mushrooms by pairing Cordyceps, Maitake, Tremella, and Lion's Mane, plus powerful nootropics, like BCAA's, L-Theanine, Alpha-GPC, and more.
FAQ - Cordyceps Testosterone Effects
Is Cordyceps good for testosterone?
Yes, Cordyceps may help support testosterone levels. Research suggests that Cordyceps can improve stamina and energy, which may indirectly boost testosterone production, particularly in men.
What does Cordyceps do to men?
Cordyceps is known to enhance physical performance, increase stamina, and improve sexual function in men. It may also boost overall vitality and energy levels, promoting better athletic and sexual health.
Does Cordyceps affect hormones?
Yes, Cordyceps can influence hormones. It may help balance cortisol levels and support testosterone production, positively impacting overall hormonal health and stress management.
Does Cordyceps lower DHT?
There is limited evidence that Cordyceps directly lowers DHT (dihydrotestosterone). However, it may help support overall hormonal balance, which could have indirect effects on DHT levels.
What is the downside of Cordyceps?
Potential downsides of Cordyceps include digestive issues, such as nausea or diarrhea, for some people. It's also possible to experience allergic reactions, though these are rare. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting any supplement.
What blocks DHT the most?
Saw Palmetto, Finasteride, and specific medications like Dutasteride are known to block DHT most effectively. Natural DHT blockers also include green tea extract, pumpkin seed oil, and certain foods like flaxseeds.
Resources
- “Effects of Cultured Cordycep militaris on Sexual Performance and Erectile Function in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Male Rats” https://www.hindawi.com/journals/bmri/2020/4198397/#introduction
- “Cordyceps militaris Fruit Body Extract Decreases Testosterone Catabolism and Testosterone-Stimulated Prostate Hypertrophy” https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7824671/
- “Effects of cordyceps sinensis supplementation during 12 weeks in amateur marathoners: A randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled trial” https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2210803322000392#:~:text=Different%20substances%20have%20been%20tested,records%20in%20track%20and%20field.
- “Cordycepin for Health and Wellbeing: A Potent Bioactive Metabolite of an Entomopathogenic Medicinal Fungus Cordyceps with Its Nutraceutical and Therapeutic Potential” https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7356751/#__ffn_sectitle
Kat Austin
Kat is a Senior Writer at Lucid with over a decade of experience crafting engaging health and lifestyle content. When she's not sharing health hacks, you can find her foraging nearby her own backyard or backpacking somewhere bobcats roam.
