Cordyceps Benefits: A Deep Dive into Research-Backed Advantages
By Dr Rajeev Singh +2 more
Medically reviewed by Dr Rajeev Singh
Last updated: Jun 14, 2024Click to rate this article!
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By Dr Rajeev Singh +2 more
Medically reviewed by Dr Rajeev Singh
Last updated: Jun 14, 2024Table of Contents
Cordyceps is a fungus popular for its potential health benefits. It contains loads of health-promoting compounds such as cordycepin, polysaccharides, and ergosterol. In this article, we will explore the potential benefits of cordyceps, their nutritional profile, active ingredients, the various forms of supplements, advice on dosages, possible side effects, and tips to select good quality products. Lastly, we will answer frequently asked questions regarding this topic.
Cordyceps is a well-loved fungus with roots in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). In this section, we’ll discuss about cordyceps history and its various species.
Cordyceps is a parasitic fungus growing on specific insects, mostly found in high-altitude areas like the Himalayas. For centuries, they have been dried and used in traditional Chinese medicine. Conditions like low energy, respiratory issues, kidney ailments, and low sex drive have been managed using it in traditional medicine.
The use of cordyceps in Chinese medicine isn’t new. It’s more than 2000 years old. It’s been used to improve energy levels and overall wellness. Fresh research is shedding light on its potential health benefits. That’s why it’s becoming a vital part of supplements for alternative medicine.
There are over 400 known types of cordyceps. But two, in particular, have stolen the limelight for their possible medicinal uses. They are – Cordyceps sinensis and Cordyceps militaris. Although current research mostly involves animals or laboratory studies.
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Cordyceps are rich with several compounds known to enhance health. The main active ingredients in cordyceps include cordycepin, polysaccharides, ergosterol, and adenosine.
The main ingredients in cordyceps are listed below.
Cordycepin is proposed to be linked to anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-cancer uses.
Polysaccharides are carbohydrates made up of multiple sugar units. They are proposed to support immune health, regulate blood sugar, and show antioxidant activity.
Ergosterol is a sterol seen in fungi that is said to help reduce inflammation.
Adenosine is found naturally in cordyceps. It has a crucial role in many body functions. Adenosine is said to help with heart health, reduce inflammation, and boost energy production.
A key area of cordyceps study is its ability to lift athletic performance. The fungus is proposed to boost the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). ATP delivers energy to muscles and helps with oxygen use which aids exercise.
Studies suggest that cordyceps helps older adults perform better during exercise. It does this by boosting VO2 max. That’s a fitness level index showing a person’s oxygen use during intense exercise. It found that older adults had a significant rise in VO2 max when they took Cordyceps.
One study took healthy older adults. Those who got a synthetic form of cordyceps named CS-4 over six weeks saw a 7% increase in VO2 max. The placebo group did not show this rise. In another test, older adults were given 1 gram of CS-4 daily for 12 weeks. They showed improvement in exercise performance.
But note that research so far shows cordyceps does not enhance exercise in trained athletes. More studies are needed to confirm if cordyceps raises athletic performance in different groups.
Cordyceps has been used in traditional medicine to slow down aging. Present studies suggest that its anti-aging effect might be due to the strong antioxidants it contains.
Antioxidants are molecules that protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. These unstable molecules can react with nearby cell parts and lead to cell dysfunction. So, by neutralising free radicals, antioxidants bring down oxidative stress thus delaying cellular damage.
Some studies suggest that cordyceps might prolong life by reducing cell damage from harmful environmental factors. For example, mice given cordyceps lived for a few more months than those given a placebo. Another study showed that cordyceps lengthened the lifespan of fruit flies.
However, we need human trials to explore the anti-aging effects of cordyceps.
The potential anti-tumour features of cordyceps are in the limelight in the last few years. The fungus is proposed to help fight cancer through several ways.
How does cordyceps help fight cancer cells?
Laboratory studies show that cordyceps may stop the growth of different types of human cancer cells, such as those of lung, colon, skin, and liver cancers. Mouse studies show that cordyceps has anti-tumour effects on lymphoma, melanoma, and lung cancer cells.
In one study they found that cordyceps had the potential to counteract the side effects of some cancer therapy. An example is leukopenia where there is a fall in the white blood cell count, making the body prone to infection. Another study found that cordyceps reversed leukopenia caused by radiation therapy and the chemotherapy drug in mice.
The results are promising but how Cordyceps affects leukopenia and tumour growth in humans is still unknown. Moreover, the studies were done in animals and test tubes, not on humans. Hence, further large-scale human research needs to be done.
Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition where blood sugar levels increase. That’s due to low insulin production or the body’s resistance to its effects. Cordyceps seems to have potential sugar-lowering properties. This suggests it might benefit those dealing with type 2 diabetes.
Animal studies reveal that cordyceps might aid blood sugar control by mimicking the effects of insulin.
A study on diabetic mice showed that cordyceps supplementation reduced blood sugar and improved cholesterol levels. It also improved weight control and kidney function. But note, these findings are based on animal studies and more research is needed to confirm the potential benefits of cordyceps for individuals with type 2 diabetes.
Animal research showed that cordyceps may help to lower LDL cholesterol, resulting in healthier cholesterol levels. LDL is the bad cholesterol with respect to heart health.Aside from reducing cholesterol, cordyceps might also avoid atherosclerosis. That is when the arterial walls get plaque build-up, limiting blood flow. Animal studies show that cordyceps may lower triglyceride levels as well. Though we do not have many human trials, smaller studies imply that cordyceps could have potential benefits for the heart .
However, currently, there isn’t enough evidence to says for sure how cordyceps impacts heart health in humans. More research is needed.
Cordyceps is proposed to have strong anti-inflammatory properties. Animal and test-tube studies show that cordyceps reduces inflammation in different contexts. For example, water extracts of cordyceps brought down inflammation and improved lung function in asthmatic mice. Another mouse study showed that skin inflammation dropped drastically when cordyceps was applied topically.
However promising, cordyceps’ potential anti-inflammatory effects have yet to be observed in humans. Until more research is conducted, the true reach of cordyceps as an anti-inflammatory agent stays unclear.
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A wide range of cordyceps supplements is available. It lets consumers opt what suits their needs best. In this section, we’ll discuss about the various types of supplement , outline suggested dosages, and cover any possible side effects or precautions linked to cordyceps use.
Cordyceps supplements are available in several forms. So, you can choose what works for you. The most common forms of cordyceps supplements are as follows.
You can add cordyceps powder to food and drinks. It’s a simple and handy way of taking cordyceps.
Capsules are easy to swallow. If you prefer a solid supplement form.. They let you control dosing and are easy to carry around.
Cordyceps liquid extract is a concentrated form. It’s usually taken by placing drops under the tongue or mixing with a beverage. Quick to absorb, it’s an option for those who find it hard to take capsules or tablets.
Research suggests that doses of 1,000-3,000 mg per day could yield health benefits. It’s best to discuss with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen, as individual needs may vary.
When starting cordyceps supplement, it is advised to start with the lowest dose. See how you respond to the product before you raise your intake if necessary. If you have any bad side effects, ask your healthcare provider for advice and adjust the dosage as needed.
Though cordyceps are typically safe for short-term use, some people may have side effects. Also, some groups might have to use caution when thinking about cordyceps supplementation.
Usually, cordyceps use is well-tolerated. But, some people might face mild side effects like an upset stomach, feeling sick, diarrhoea, or dry mouth. Most of the time, these side effects stop once cordyceps usage ends. However, if you feel significant discomfort or other symptoms after taking cordyceps, discuss with your healthcare provider.
Some people should avoid cordyceps or use it under caution who are as follows.
Before starting any new supplement, it’s key to ask your healthcare provider to know if it’s appropriate for your needs and to get guidance on correct dosing. Go by the directions on the product label or what your healthcare provider advises. And stop using cordyceps if you get any bad side effects.
Tips to follow to find quality cordyceps products are as follows.
Where cordyceps is sourced and how it’s grown matter in determining the product’s quality. Wild-harvested C. sinensis is rare to find and costs a lot; hence, most supplements use laboratory-grown strains like Cs-4 or C. militaris. Look for products that clearly mention their sourcing and growing methods, along with any quality control measures in place.
A good cordyceps supplement will typically give you a set value of active compounds, like cordycepin, polysaccharides, and adenosine. Always choose a standardized product.
Another way to vouch for the quality and safety of cordyceps supplement is to go for products tested and certified by third-party bodies like United States Pharmacopeia (USP) or NSF International. These organizations affirm that the supplements have the ingredients listed on the label.
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Cordyceps is a marvelous fungus with deep roots in traditional medicine. It also has a myriad of potential health benefits which include exercising performance enhancement, anti-aging, anti-tumor, antidiabetic, and heart health-promoting effects. There is new research shedding more light on its varied properties. However, more research is still needed to confirm these effects. It is advised to choose good quality products and always discuss them with your doctor before incorporating it into your daily diet.
Yes, you can normally take cordyceps supplements every day. But, do ask your healthcare provider before you start taking any new supplement. You’ll learn the right dosage and whether it’s safe for your specific needs.
At present, we don’t have much research on the long-term safety of cordyceps supplementation. Yet, it’s viewed as generally safe for short-term use. Always check with your healthcare provider before you start any new supplement. Also, stop using it if you get any bad side effects.
Research shows that in animal studies, cordyceps support hormone production and might raise testosterone levels. But we need more research to see if these effects extend to humans, as well.
Research hints that cordyceps might help shield against kidney disease by reducing inflammation, improving blood sugar control, and boosting overall kidney health. But human research is still limited, and more studies are necessary to confirm these effects.
This can vary. It depends on factors like the supplement’s quality, active ingredient content, and individual health status. Discuss with your healthcare provider about your specific needs and expectations before incorporating cordyceps supplementation.
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