Cordyceps is a type of fungus that has uses in traditional Chinese medicine. It has potential health benefits. What are these benefits? Is it safe?
Cordyceps
Cordyceps is the zombie ant fungus. It grows on the larvae of insects and takes over their bodies. But fortunately, it cannot affect humans. This is due to the high body temperature of humans.
In Chinese medicine, it has healing applications. It helps healthy sexual function and increases energy. Eleanora N. Gafton, from Maryland University Integrative Health in Laurel, MD says:
“Cordeyceps is found in the highlands of China, Tibet, and Nepal, and it’s extremely expensive and rare,”
“And it’s rich in micronutrients and vitamins,”
Cordyceps fungus (Source: Wikipedia)It has 18 different amino acids, D-mannitol, and polysaccharides.
Potential health benefits
Eleanora explains:
“In general, the benefits of cordyceps are tied to endurance and athletic performance,”
“Cordyceps also work to boost immune cells, and can be helpful for those going through chemotherapy.”
A Saudi Arabian study showed that it’s active ingredient is cordycepin and this can treat and prevent cancer, heart diseases, diabetes and also kill viruses.
Christopher D’Adamo, PhD from the epidemiology and public health unit at the University of Maryland School of Medicine in Baltimore states:
“These mushrooms may support health through a variety of pathways, including antioxidant effects and stimulation of the immune system,”
Health benefits of zombie ant fungus (Source: Ecosh life)Human studies are few and small sized. However, non human studies reveal it’s role in stress and fatigue reduction and in breast cancer. It helps in menopausal symptoms. Sue-Ellen Anderson-Haynes, national spokesperson of the American Dietetic Association says:
“Women can expect anti-aging benefits,”
“It has adaptogen properties, which means they may assist with the optimal function of progesterone, estrogen and cortisol. In addition, it further supports hormone health for women by providing estrogen balance due to its phytoestrogen properties.”
Moreover, it boosts libido. Korean research revealed that it assists in weight management.
Dosage, side effects and precautions
Some consume it in tea. Christopher says:
“Ideally, you would get wild foraged Cordyceps, but these are very hard to find, and would be very expensive if you did find them,”
However, its supplements are available. As regards dosing, he says:
“Typical doses would be a few grams of powdered extract per day,”
“I suggest choosing an organic powder or extract, usually in a dropper bottle, sourced from the United States, to minimize issues with purity or contaminants, and to optimize Cordyceps’ effects.”
Read here: Mushrooms: their types, nutritive values, and health benefits!
Cordyceps (Source: Healthline)But it is not regulated product. Eleanora opines:
“The dose would be 1-3 grams for maintenance, or 3-6 grams per day for therapeutic actions,”
She adds:
“Cordyceps are recommended for a year, but not indefinitely,”
It can cause nausea, vomiting and dry mouth. Moreover, bleeding and hypoglycemia can also occur. Hence, diabetics should be careful of taking it. Pregnant and breastfeeding ladies should avoid it. Those on blood thinners and immune suppressants should also not take them unsupervised.