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Cordyceps (Cordyceps sinensis)

Proposed Uses: Cancer Prevention; Diabetes; Fatigue; High Blood Pressure; High Cholesterol; Immune Support; Kidney Protection ; Liver Support; Lupus; Male Sexual Dysfunction; Sports Performance; Viral Hepatitis ; And Many Others

Cordyceps sinensis is a combination of a parasitic fungus and a caterpillar. The fungus attacks the caterpillar and destroys it from within. The remaining structures of the caterpillar along with the fungus are dried and sold as cordyceps.  Cordyceps has a long history of use in China as a “tonic,” a substance said to generally strengthen the body, particularly following illness. It was also used to treat bronchitis, kidney failure, and tuberculosis.

Cordyceps is marketed today as treatment for a great many conditions. However, there is no reliable scientific evidence that it actually provides any medical benefits.  Most research on is not up to modern scientific standards. Although several double-blind studies have been reported on cordyceps, they all fall considerably short of the level necessary for scientific validity. Evidence is more negative than positive regarding whether cordyceps is helpful for enhancing sports performance.

Weak evidence hints that cordyceps may modulate the immune system, which means that it stimulates some aspects of the immune system while suppressing others.

Highly preliminary test-tube and animal studies hint that cordyceps may help fight stress, control blood sugar levels, reduce cancer risk, lower high blood pressure, and help protect the kidney against damage caused by the drugs cyclosporin and gentamycin.

Other test-tube studies hint that cordyceps may stimulate production of hormones such as cortisone and testosterone. However, these studies are far too preliminary to indicate any therapeutic hormonal effect.

Dosage
Typical traditional recommended doses of cordyceps range from 5–10 grams per day. Concentrated extracts are also available, taken at a lower dosage.

Safety Issues
Use of cordyceps does not generally cause apparent side effects. However, comprehenseive safety studies have not been reported.  Two cases report cordyceps products contained enough lead to cause lead poisoning.

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