Cordyceps

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Cordyceps Cordyceps is a genus of ascomycete fungi, which includes around 400 species. Most of these are native to Asia, and can be found in the continent's tropical forests. Some species have impressive pharmacological properties, along with a long history of medicinal use in Tibet and China. All species of Cordyceps are endoparasitoids, meaning they develop inside the body of its host, usually insects. The Cordyceps fungus attacks the host, then the mycellium (thread-like vegetative part) replaces the host's tissue. Some species of Cordyceps can even affect the host's behavior (did someone say zombie?), causing them to relocate, or climb a tree for instance. Anything that ensures a more optimal environment to grow in. The two most common species are C. sinensis and C. militaris. However, after further analysis, C. sinensis was reclassified as belonging to the Ophiocordyceps genus, thus becoming O. sinensis. I certainly don't blame you if you're head is spinning at this point, what with the combination of a zombie fungi and too much geek speak. But now that the science (and science fiction) portion of this page is finished, we can continue with the incredible benefits of Cordyceps. (And Ophiocordyceps, if you've been paying attention.)


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Cordyceps by Nick Mistretta - Issuu