Health Encyclopedia > Herbal Remedies > Cordyceps

Cordyceps

Botanical names: spp.

Common name: Caterpillar fungus, Deer fungus parasite, Chongcao

Parts of Cordyceps used and where is Cordyceps grown

sinensis in its sexual stage is the primary form used.¹ However, more than ten related species (in sexual and asexual stages) as well as artificially cultured mycelium are today used as substitutes in commercial preparations. C. sinensis, C. ophioglossoides, C. capita, and C. militaris are the most common species in commerce.

Historical or traditional use of Cordyceps

(may or may not be supported by scientific studies)

In ancient China, cordyceps was used in the Emperor’s palace and was considered to have ginseng-like properties.² It was used to strengthen the body after exhaustion or long-term illness, and for impotence, neurasthenia, and backache. It was also used to cure opium addiction.

Active constituents of Cordyceps

contains a wide variety of potentially important constituents, including polysaccharides, ophiocordin (an antibiotic compound), cordycepin, cordypyridones, nucleosides, bioxanthracenes, sterols, alkenoic acids, and exo-polymers.³ ⁴ ⁵ ⁶ ⁷ ⁸ ⁹

Many studies on the medicinal effects of cordyceps do not give a clear picture of its actions because many of the studies (1) are in animals or test tubes; (2) use different species, preparations, and intake levels; (3) inject cordyceps and/or its constituents rather than administering them orally; or (4) are not available in English and, therefore, cannot be reviewed for accuracy and design.

There are some clinical trials supporting the efficacy of cordyceps, particularly for liver, kidney, and immune problems. A number of studies indicate that cordyceps may have a anti-cancer, anti-metastatic, immuno-enhancing, and antioxidant effects.¹⁰ ¹¹ ¹² ¹³ ¹⁴

How much Cordyceps is usually taken?

The recommended intake of cordyceps is 3 to 9 grams taken twice daily as a liquid extract, as food, or as powdered extract.¹⁵

Are there any side effects or interactions with Cordyceps?

There are insufficient studies on the safety of cordyceps. However, it has a long history of use as a food and is generally considered safe.¹⁶ There is no information available about safety in pregnancy, lactation, or use in children.

There are two reported cases of lead poisoning associated with the use of apparently contaminated cordyceps powder.¹⁷ should only be purchased from companies that test to exclude heavy metal contamination.

At the time of writing, there were no well-known drug interactions with cordyceps.

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The information presented in Healthnotes is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications.

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