Description
Cordyceps Flower, Cordyceps Militaris, 虫草花 (Chóng Cǎo Huā)
Neutral in nature. Sweet in taste. It enters the lungs and kidney meridians.
Its primary actions revolve around tonifying (strengthening) the body’s vital energy, particularly the Kidney and Lung systems.
Health Benefits
Tonify kidney & Yang, nourishes lungs & Yin, strengthens the respiratory system, alleviates fatigue, moisten the lungs.
Tonifies the Kidney Yang : helps with lower back pain and knee weakness, cold limbs, impotence, spermatorrhea, and frequent urination.
Nourishes the Lung Yin and Relieves Cough : moistens the Lungs, beneficial for cough, asthma, wheezing, and shortness of breath.
Secures the Essence and Stops Emissions : Used for conditions like spermatorrhea (involuntary ejaculation) and premature ejaculation.
Tonifies Qi and Blood : mild action to boost overall energy (Qi) and improve blood production, alleviates fatigue, weakness, dizziness, and palpitations after a long illness.
Modern Research and Active Compounds
· Immune Modulation : It can both enhance immune function and calm an overactive immune response (making it useful for allergies and autoimmune conditions).
· Anti-fatigue : enhancing energy, endurance, and oxygen utilization.
· Antioxidant & Anti-aging : Fights free radical damage and may protect kidney and liver function.
Modern science has helped explain why Cordyceps is so valued. The key active compound is Cordycepin, which is found in high concentrations in Cordyceps militaris. Cordycepin is being studied for its potential to inhibit the growth of certain cancer cells.
Common Usage and Preparation
· Tea / Decoction : Steep in hot water for 5-10 minutes. Can be re-steeped several times. or Simmer on the stove for a richer flavour.
· Culinary Use : Added to soups and stews for a tonic effect.
Precautions
Cordyceps Flower is neutral in nature and gentle. It is suitable for all ages.
· Heat Conditions : Such as fever, flu, cold, chills, sore throat, inflammation.
· Individuals allergic to fungi / mushroom should exercise caution. As a medicinal food fungus, its effects are significant but relatively gentle; it requires consistent use over a period to see optimal results.
· Medical Conditions : If you have hypertension, auto-immune diseases, diabetes, allergy or are on medication (especially blood thinners), consultation with a doctor is essential. All herbs are not for infants.
** Disclaimer: Not a substitute for medicine. Individual results may vary. Always consult a qualified TCM practitioner or healthcare professional before consume any herbal medicine, especially when you have underlying health conditions.
