Herbal Tea Cordyceps

Traditional Bhutanese Medicinal Tea with Rare Cordyceps Fungus

Herbal Tea Cordyceps features the legendary yartsa goenbub (“summer grass, winter worm”), a rare and highly valuable medicinal fungus that grows exclusively in the high-altitude alpine meadows of Bhutan. This unique herbal infusion contains the precious Cordyceps sinensis, a parasitic fungus that develops from the body of ghost moth caterpillars found in Bhutan’s pristine Himalayan environment. The tea delivers a distinctive earthy flavor with subtle sweet undertones and is traditionally consumed for its powerful adaptogenic properties that help the body maintain balance and vitality. Due to its rarity and high medicinal value, Cordyceps harvesting is strictly regulated by the Bhutanese government, making this tea a truly special offering. Served hot in a traditional Bhutanese tea cup.

History of Herbal Tea Cordyceps

Cordyceps has been treasured in Bhutanese traditional medicine for centuries, with its use documented in ancient Tibetan medical texts. The name “yartsa goenbub” perfectly describes its unique lifecycle – appearing as a worm (caterpillar) in winter and transforming into grass (fungus) in summer. For generations, local communities in high-altitude regions have carefully harvested Cordyceps during the brief summer season, considering it one of nature’s most precious gifts. The Bhutanese government strictly regulates Cordyceps harvesting to ensure sustainability, allowing only local households to collect it during specific periods. This careful management preserves both the ecological balance and the cultural heritage associated with this remarkable medicinal fungus, which has become one of Bhutan’s most valuable natural exports.

Nutritional Value of Herbal Tea Cordyceps

Nutrient

Range

Calories

Protein

Fat

Carbohydrates

Fiber

Sodium

Health Benefits of Cordyceps Tea

Benefit

Description

Immune Support

Strengthens natural defense mechanisms

Energy Boost

Combats fatigue and improves endurance

Respiratory Health

Supports lung function and breathing

Anti-Aging

Rich in antioxidants that delay aging

Adaptogenic

Helps body adapt to physical and mental stress

Health Benefits:
Cordyceps tea offers numerous health benefits supported by both traditional use and modern research:

Immune System Support: Enhances the body’s natural defense mechanisms and helps fight infections
Energy and Stamina: Known to combat fatigue and improve physical endurance without caffeine
Respiratory Health: Traditionally used to support lung function and alleviate respiratory conditions
Anti-Aging Properties: Rich in antioxidants that help delay the aging process and protect cells
Adaptogenic Qualities: Helps the body adapt to physical and mental stress, promoting balance
Kidney and Liver Support: Supports detoxification and organ function
Mental Clarity: Enhances focus and cognitive function without stimulants
Circulatory Health: Supports cardiovascular function and blood circulation

Note: While Cordyceps tea offers numerous health benefits, individuals with specific medical conditions or those taking medications should consult with a healthcare provider before regular consumption. Due to its rarity and potency, this tea is served in limited quantities.

How to make Herbal Tea Cordyceps?

Ingredients

1-2 pieces of dried Cordyceps fungus (per cup)
200ml filtered water
Optional: honey or natural sweetener to taste

Preparation Method

Select Cordyceps: Use 1-2 pieces of high-quality dried Cordyceps fungus per cup of tea.
Rinse Gently: Briefly rinse the Cordyceps under cold water to remove any debris.
Boil Water: Bring filtered water to a rolling boil (approximately 95-100°C).
Steep Cordyceps: Place the Cordyceps in a teapot or infuser and pour boiling water over them.
Brew Time: Allow the tea to steep for 8-12 minutes to extract the full medicinal properties and complex flavors.
Strain and Serve: Strain the tea into a cup, preserving the used Cordyceps for additional steeps.
Sweeten (Optional): Add honey or natural sweetener if desired.
Enjoy: Sip slowly while hot to fully appreciate the earthy, complex flavor and health benefits.

Traditional Tip: In Bhutan, Cordyceps tea is often consumed in the morning to boost energy for the day or before meditation to enhance focus. The used Cordyceps can be steeped 2-3 times to extract maximum benefits, with each subsequent steep revealing different flavor notes.

Serving Size: One cup (200ml) per serving
Preparation Time: 12-15 minutes
Note: Due to the rarity and value of authentic Bhutanese Cordyceps, this tea is served in limited quantities and represents one of the most exclusive herbal offerings in traditional Bhutanese cuisine.