Cordyceps (medicinal mushroom) & L-citrulline: effects, use & important information about citrulline
With L-citrulline and cordyceps you can start the spring full of energy, whether for better physical or mental fitness. This unique combination offers effective support for a strengthened cardiovascular system, more energy and faster regeneration. [1]
The synergistic effect of L-citrulline, an amino acid, and the vital mushroom cordyceps means that this duo is deeply rooted in the principles of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and modern nutritional science. Both substances are of natural origin and suitable for a plant-based diet. They are characterized by good bioavailability, which means they can be efficiently utilized by the body. Such combinations can help to support general well-being in a natural way by providing the body with the necessary building blocks to enter the warm season stronger and more vitalized. Whether you want to improve your endurance performance or mental focus, the combination of cordyceps and L-citrulline could be the answer. [2]
What is L-citrulline and why is it particularly effective?
L-citrulline is a non-proteinogenic, non-essential amino acid that is converted to L-arginine in the body. This increases the arginine level, which boosts the production of nitric oxide (NO). A molecule that dilates the blood vessels and thus improves blood circulation. Especially in the citrulline malate compound, a combination with malic acid, L-citrulline has a performance-enhancing effect: it supports energy production in the muscle cells, promotes regeneration and helps to alleviate gastrointestinal complaints, as it can improve the absorption of nutrients in the intestine. [3] [4]
Who is L-citrulline suitable for and who should be careful?
L-citrulline is particularly suitable for people who are active in sports, for anyone who wants to improve their endurance and performance and also for people with an increased need for blood circulation, for example to improve potency or erectile function in men, or cognitive performance. However, people with cardiovascular disease or existing medication should consult a doctor before taking it. [5]
L-arginine and L-citrulline can dilate the blood vessels and affect blood pressure. Caution should therefore be exercised when taking antihypertensive medication at the same time in order to avoid unwanted interactions.
Cordyceps, the vital mushroom with adaptogenic effect
Cordyceps sinensis, also known as the Chinese caterpillar fungus, is a traditional vital mushroom from Chinese medicine that has been used for centuries to strengthen vital energy (“Qi”). Modern cordyceps preparations have a wide range of uses and can be used as part of a health-conscious lifestyle. Thanks to its adaptogenic properties, it helps the body to cope better with stress, promotes energy production in the mitochondria and can strengthen the immune system through beta-glucans.
Standardized extracts are particularly recommended, as they ensure consistent quality and effectiveness and thus enable reliable use. The synergy of L-citrulline and cordyceps is naturally strong. [6]
L-citrulline and cordyceps - effects, benefits & intake
In combination, citrulline and cordyceps capsules can have a synergistic effect. Both physically and mentally. The mixture supports:
- the cardiovascular system
- endurance performance
- muscle regeneration
- mental focus
- stress resistance
- general well-being
Essential amino acids & other valuable supplements
The effect of this combination can be specifically enhanced by other vital substances: essential amino acids such as L-leucine, L-isoleucine and L-valine promote muscle protein synthesis and are particularly popular with active athletes. Vitamin C supports the absorption of these amino acids and also contributes to immune defense. L-tryptophan, an amino acid with an influence on mood, can also round off the effect.
The assumption that the combination of citrulline and cordyceps can counteract gastrointestinal complaints, as it harmonizes digestion and optimizes the absorption of other nutrients, has not yet been sufficiently scientifically proven.
Complementary ingredients such as L-carnitine (fat metabolism), whey protein (muscle building) and omega 3 fatty acids (heart health) offer further synergistic effects when combined with L-citrulline and cordyceps. [7]
Optimally prepared with natural ingredients
If you want to prepare your body specifically for spring, the combination of L-citrulline and cordyceps is a particularly effective choice. High-quality supplements with selected amino acids and natural plant substances such as cordyceps can provide the body with useful support in times of increased demand. For more energy, balance and vitality in a natural way.
Finally, we are happy to answer this anxious question:
Why doesn't cordyceps affect people? Between horror and the promise of a cure
Cordyceps exemplifies the paradox of nature: a mushroom that gives life and takes it away at the same time. Valued in TCM as a powerful immune modulator, feared in pop culture as a brain-destroying parasite.
In the HBO series The Last of Us, based on the video game of the same name, cordyceps becomes the ultimate enemy of fear: a mutation that is no longer content with insects, but chooses humans as its host. It is not transmitted by airborne spores but, as befits the zombie genre, through bites, bodily fluids and simple proximity.
Between ground and screen, caterpillar and human, healing art and end-time fantasy, a modern myth unfolds. Somewhere between mycelium and metaphor. What remains is the realization that nature still writes the most fascinating stories. And sometimes they grow from the head of a caterpillar.
However, Cordyceps specifically does not affect humans.
Sources
[1] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/PMC3110835
[2] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/PMC5236007
[3] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/PMC8571142
[4] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/PMC1724533
[5] https://ptaforum.pharmazeutische-zeitung.de/aminosaeure-mit-potenzial
[6] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20804368
[7] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32359762