Will Cordyceps turn me into a zombie?

If you've been binge watching “The Last of Us”, there’s no wonder this question has crossed your mind. Rest assured, No. Cordyceps will not turn you into a zombie… However, you may not have the same luck if you’re an insect, or other type of arthropod.

What is the "zombie" fungus in The Last of Us?
In the TV show "The Last of Us", Cordyceps is a fictional fungus that has caused a post-apocalyptic world, wiping out most of humanity.

But don’t stress, this is purely a work of fiction created for the small screen.

What is Cordyceps in real life?
Cordyceps is a genus of fungi. The use of the mushroom originated in the mountains of Tibet and Nepal and it has since been extensively used in many traditional Asian cultures for centuries1. The Cordyceps mushroom is now a well recognised mushroom and it is consumed all over the world.

The Cordyceps mushroom is commonly known to:

Enhance energy levels
Cordyceps are thought to increase the body’s production of the molecule adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is essential for delivering energy to the muscles. This may improve the way your body uses oxygen, especially during exercise2.*

Promote Stamina and Endurance
Cordyceps contains compounds that may improve energy production in cells and help to reduce fatigue3.*

Have Anti-Aging Properties
Researchers believe Cordyceps antioxidant content may explain their anti-aging potential. Antioxidants are molecules that fight cell damage by neutralizing free radicals, which can otherwise contribute to disease and aging4.*

Support Immune System
Cordyceps contains various biologically active compounds, such as cordycepin, which has been shown to have immune-boosting effects5.*

So there you have it folks, keep enjoying Cordyceps in your daily biohacking practice.

There’s no need to fear the fungi!

🍄

Mush Love!

*These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Sources:
1. ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3121254/
2. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33312018/
3. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28094746/
4. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18803231/
5. ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7104994/