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Cordyceps refers to a genus of parasitic fungi that contains over 400 separate species. Cordycepts sinensis is one of the most commonly used species along with Cordyceps militaris.
As a supplement, these species are often collectively referred to simply as cordyceps.
This mushroom has been used in Tibet, China, Japan, Korea, Vietnam and several other countries since ancient times for promoting sexual vigor and increasing energy.
Cordyceps benefits are currently being examined and research indicates possible antitumor, antioxidant, cardiovascular-enhancing, renoprotective and hepatoprotective effects.
Despite a long history of use, there have been no large-scale, human trials completed to ascertain the therapeutic usefulness of this mushroom.
Immunity
Stamina
Anti- Aging- Shown to reduce fatigue & stress
- Anti-oxidant that stimulates the immune system
- Increases testosterone secretion & libido
Cordyceps Overview
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Cordyceps sinensis is one of the most widely supplemented cordyceps species.
It is also known by its Chinese name dong chong xia cao, or as Chinese caterpillar fungus. It grows on the back of a caterpillar native to Northern China.
Over the course of the winter months, the fungus grows into the caterpillar and by the summer all that remains is the fungus itself, which eventually bursts through the caterpillar shell to grow a fruiting body or stroma.
Cordyceps supplements include the remaining portions of the caterpillar and the parasitic fungus.
The Chinese caterpillar fungus is used for a variety of purposes, including strengthening the immune system, improving athletic performance, combating lethargy, encouraging longevity and reducing the effects of aging.
Cordyceps militaris can grow on a wide variety of insect hosts, but is usually found on caterpillars. It is sometimes referred to as the orange caterpillar fungus. Cordyceps militaris is receiving increased attention because it can be easily grown on a solid or liquid medium and is very similar to C. Sinensis.
Top Cordyceps Sinensis Supplements
Cordyceps Benefits and Properties
Preliminary research indicates that cordyceps has benefits for the immune system and may exhibit anti-cancer effects. Use of this supplement can increase the production of certain cytokines, including interferon and interleukin. By doing so, natural cellular apoptosis (cell death) is promoted, which helps to inhibit the growth of cancer cells.
This may prove to regulate tumor growth and progression, effectively reducing tumor size. However, human trials are needed before the clinical viability of this mushroom for cancer can be determined.
In in vitro studies and animal tests, C. militaris has been observed to subjectively improve certain cancer symptoms and tolerance to chemotherapy and radiation treatments. Plasma levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) were elevated and life quality standards were observed to be improved with C. militaris supplementation.
No large-scale human trials have been conducted concerning the chemopreventive or antitumor properties of cordyceps extract. This supplement has not been approved by the FDA for use in cancer treatment.
Cordyceps Effects on Energy and the Heart
In Chinese Traditional Medicine, these fungi have been used for many centuries to promote heart health and to improve cardiovascular function. In some animal tests, C. Militaris has been observed to restore heart rate after arrhythmia, reduce heart rate, reduce heart oxygen consumption and induce vasodilatation (expansion of blood vessels).
In long-term, open-label human studies of individuals who experienced cardiac failure, cardiac performance was enhanced, arrhythmias were less frequent and life quality was markedly improved. Further clinical studies are needed to determine the full effect of C. Militaris on heart and overall cardiovascular health.
Additional Cordyceps Extract Uses
Many of the therapeutic uses of cordyceps are being investigated.
While there may be insufficient evidence for the use of this supplement in Western medicine, it is recommended by many natural health practitioners.
Cordyceps benefits may also be useful to:
- Help control blood sugar;
- Improve sensitivity to insulin and leptin;
- Improve the uptake and utilization of glucose;
- Support liver function, especially for individuals with posthepatic cirrhosis and hepatitis B;
- Strengthen the immune system
- Improve athletic performance
- Improve renal function by increasing creatine levels;
- Immune booster with 40% polysaccharides
- Improves fatigue and stress biomarkers
- Increases testosterone secretions and raises libido
Is Cordyceps Safe to Use?
Cordyceps supplements are generally well tolerated by humans. Some negative side effects have been reported and include diarrhea, dry mouth and stomach upset. These effects usually pass quickly when experienced.
In mouse studies, doses of 80 grams per kilogram of bodyweight were administered with no ill side effects. Common human dosage recommendations range between 3 and 6 grams daily, depending on factors such as age, gender, weight, current health, targeted symptoms and more.
Cordyceps supplementation is not recommended for women who are pregnant or nursing. Also, individuals taking other medications should consult a physician before beginning cordyceps supplementation.
Despite the benefits, Cordyceps extracts may interact with prescription drugs that target the immune system because they can induce potent immunomodulatory effects, which may cause medications to be ineffective, or too effective.
Cordyceps mushrooms may also cause vasodilation which can improve circulation in some individuals. It may also lower blood pressure. Because of these possible effects, supplementation is not recommended for surgery patients or those with reactive hypoglycemia (prediabetes) or diabetes type II mellitus.
As with all supplements, be sure to speak to your doctor or health care professional before taking this natural health product to learn more about side effects and health benefits of cordyceps supplementation.
- Liu Y, Wang J, Wang W, Zhang H, Zhang X, Han C.. The Chemical Constituents and Pharmacological Actions of Cordyceps sinensis. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2015;2015:575063.
- Panda, Ashok Kumar, and Kailash Chandra Swain. “Traditional Uses and Medicinal Potential of Cordyceps Sinensis of Sikkim.” Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine 2.1 (2011): 9–13. PMC. Web. 22 June 2015.
- Paterson RR. Cordyceps: a traditional Chinese medicine and another fungal therapeutic biofactory? Phytochemistry. 2008 May;69(7):1469-95.
