Diet and lifestyle can significantly impact a man's sexual health. Fortunately, nature offers potent, evidence-based solutions minimal side effects.
Cordyceps, in particular, is a noteworthy candidate.
A fascinating medicinal mushroom traditionally used in Eastern medicine, Cordyceps has been gaining traction for its potential benefits in improving male sexual health and well-being. Because it is highly regarded as a potent tonic and source of energy, its uses as a sexual stimulant and for treating sexual dysfunction are attractive—even earning it the title of "Himalayan Viagra."
Let's delve into the science behind Cordyceps and how it might support a healthy sex life for all males:
1. Natural aphrodisiac properties.
An aphrodisiac is any substance (food, drink, herb, etc.) that increases sexual desire, arousal, pleasure, or performance. The term comes from Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love.
There's a long history of using aphrodisiacs in many cultures, but scientific evidence to support their effectiveness is often lacking.
However, recent research shows that Cordyceps, which has long been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine to improve health and sexual function, may have promising aphrodisiac effects.
In a 2020 study, researchers tested Cordyceps' aphrodisiac properties on diabetic rats. Compared to healthy male rats, the diabetic rats were not interested in mating and had poor penis-to-nerve stimulation, decreased number of sperm, lower levels of the hormone testosterone, and reduced activity of Nitric Oxide Synthase (NOS) in the penis and testicular superoxide dismutase (SOD) in the testicles.
NOS is an enzyme that's necessary for getting and staying hard. and SOD is an enzyme that acts as a powerful antioxidant in the testes, protecting sperm and testicles from oxidative damage and maintaining healthy sperm production and overall testicular function.
Incredibly, giving the diabetic rats Cordyceps reversed the effects of diabetes on their mating behavior. It improved their sexual behavior and response to nerve stimulation in the penis.
It also increased the levels of Nitric Oxide Synthase (NOS) in the penis and SOD in the testicles, leading to improvements in healthy sexual function and sperm production.
Importantly, the effects of Cordyceps on libido and sexual function in these male rates were similar to the effects of sildenafil (Viagra), a common erectile dysfunction medication. This suggests that Cordyceps might be a powerful and natural alternative to common erectile dysfunction medicines, helping to improve sexual health without resorting to synthetic pharmaceuticals with side effects.
2. May boost testosterone.
Low testosterone can lead to decreased libido.
Pre-clinical studies published in peer-reviewed journals show that there a few ways that Cordyceps may support healthy testosterone levels in males.
For example, two studies show that Cordyceps has been shown to stimulate hormonal activity in rodents, increasing testosterone levels.
A 2011 rodent study showed that Cordycepin, one of the main active compounds in Cordyceps, increases testosterone and progesterone levels by stimulating steroidogenesis, the biological process that transforms cholesterol into various steroid hormones.
Note that research about the effect of Cordyceps and Cordycepin on human hormones is limited. The promising effects of Cordyceps and Cordycepin on steroidogenesis in rodents have not yet been confirmed in humans.
3. Improves blood flow.
Sufficient blood flow to the penis is a key factor in achieving and maintaining an erection. Cordyceps' cardioprotective properties can help.
A study published in 2024 shows comprehensive evidence indicating that Cordyceps defends against ischemic injuries (damage that occurs when part of the body doesn't receive enough blood and oxygen) by improving blood circulation, reducing oxidative stress injury, controlling inflammation, preventing apoptosis (cell destruction), and promoting tissue regeneration.
Numerous other studies show that Cordyceps can also increase Nitric Oxide (NO) and Nitric Oxide Synthase (NOS) levels in the body. In men, this is observed particularly in the tissues in and surrounding the penis, which helps to increase blood flow for stronger, harder erections.
4. Amplifies energy and stamina.
Fatigue can significantly hinder sexual performance.
Described as a natural exercise mimetic, Cordyceps is thought to improve exercise capacity and boost physical and sexual performance by increasing blood flow, enhancing oxygen utilization, and acting as an antioxidant. Studies show that these effects, largely attributed to Cordycepin, help reduce fatigue, amplify energy, and increase stamina.
That's because, in addition to several other functions it plays in the body, Cordycepin is an indirect precursor to both NOS and ATP. NOS improves blood flow and nutrient delivery, while ATP is your cell's energy currency.
To put that in perspective, creatine is also a precursor to ATP, which is why it's revered in sports.
Nutritionally, a 2020 review demonstrates that the potent and bioactive Cordyceps is considered a powerhouse of energy because of its ability to revitalize several organ systems. Its adaptogenic properties may also help the body adapt to stress and improve energy levels, leading to a more fulfilling sexual experience.
Studies published in PMC suggest Cordyceps may enhance exercise capacity and reduce fatigue. This translates to better overall physical performance, which can indirectly improve sexual function and confidence.
5. May reverse erectile dysfunction.
Oxidative stress can damage cells and contribute to erectile dysfunction, primarily by causing insufficient blood flow to the penis.
Oxidative stress can also wear down the corpus cavernosum (the sponge-like region of the penis that fills with blood during an erection), promote the death of smooth muscle cells, and lead to endothelial dysfunction, which affects the inner lining of blood vessels and impairs their ability to function properly. These effects of oxidative stress can interfere with the normal physiological processes required for achieving and maintaining an erection.
Several studies suggest that Cordyceps' antioxidant properties help combat oxidative damage, promoting better sexual health.
6. Balances hormones.
Beyond testosterone, Cordyceps might influence other hormones related to sexual function.
A 2020 study showed that Cordyceps effectively restores the body’s natural process of regulating sex hormones, which is essential for the production of mature sperm cells from their initial form in the testicles.
Research is ongoing, but these results suggest it may promote hormonal balance, leading to improved sexual health.
7. Increases nitric oxide levels.
As mentioned earlier, nitric oxide is vital for blood flow. Studies suggest that Cordyceps may increase nitric oxide production, potentially improving blood flow and erectile function.
8. Helps the body better handle stress.
Chronic or prolonged stress can wreak havoc on libido. Cordyceps' adaptogenic properties might help manage stress, positively impacting sexual health.
According to Ellen Kamhi (phd, rn, ahg, ahn-bc), a leader in the herbal nutraceutical industry, professional member of the American Herbalist Guild, nationally board certified as a holistic nurse, a medical school instructor in botanical pharmacology, and an author of many books, Cordyceps interferes with the inflammatory pathway that is initiated by stress.
A 2020 study demonstrated that a Cordyceps substitute reversed HPA deficiency and enhanced its overall function. The HPA axis, or hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, is one of the systems that controls the body's response to stress by regulating hormone levels, including cortisol.
9. Improves sperm count and quality.
Although more human research is needed, some studies suggest Cordyceps may improve sperm quality, potentially benefiting male fertility.
In a 2008 study, rats given Cordyceps saw an increase in both sperm count and quality. In a 2006 study, subfertile boars also saw improved sperm count and quality after supplementing with Cordyceps.
Where to find high-quality Cordyceps supplements.
You can find high-quality, organic Cordyceps in Energy Stack and Vitality Stack, two of our Psilocybin microdose blends.
Energy Stack is our clinically proven blend that combines improvements in energy, cognition, and hormonal balance that bring a natural, healthy flow state that lasts all day.
Vitality Stack harnesses potent antioxidants and superfoods to rejuvenate cells, balance hormones, and bolster immunity for enduring strength as you age.
Remember:
A healthy diet, regular exercise, and managing stress are crucial cornerstones of good sexual health. Cordyceps might be a valuable addition to your holistic approach, but it's not a magic bullet.
By combining a healthy lifestyle with potential natural interventions like Cordyceps, men can take charge of their sexual well-being and experience a more fulfilling sex life.
Read: Cannabis & Sex: How it Works for Your Sex Life, and Against It
Read: Can Cannabis Cause Erectile Dysfunction?
Read: Can CBD Help With Erectile Dysfunction?
