Cordyceps is one of the superstars of the tonic herbal system. It grows naturally near the summer snowline in the Himalayas, especially in Bhutan, Nepal, and Tibet. The best wild Cordyceps arguably comes from Bhutan, from elevations above 1,700 feet (over 3 miles above sea level). It is an extremely effective and powerful life-enhancing agent, ranking right up there with Ginseng, Reishi, and Deer Antler. Because wild Cordyceps is rare, difficult to collect, potent, and highly treasured, thus it is very expensive. This precious herb is considered to be a Yang Jing tonic of the highest stature.
It is a fungus that consumes the body of a particular kind of caterpillar. It has enormous renown as a super-tonic, and is said to build sexual and physical power, mental energy, the immune system, and is universally believed in the Orient to support a long life. Cordyceps is used to strengthen the body and mind at a fundamental level. In a Traditional Tibetan herbal medication, Cordyceps is “able to increase the primary motive force for life activities.” It also replenishes Yin Jing, restoring the deep energy expended due to excessive exertion, adapting to stress, or aging. Cordyceps is thus one of the primary herbal substances used in tonic herbalism as a healthy-aging agent and for rejuvenation. Because it contains both Yin and Yang it can be used by anyone safely and over a long period of time.
To go to where the Cordyceps is, you have to travel for no less than seven days by horse, on foot, and finally by yak up to the snow line where the wild Cordyceps grows. The air is so thin at that altitude and the elements are so harsh that most westerners never make it to this destination.
