Cordyceps is a type of fungus that is reputed for its claimed medicinal properties and has been used in traditional Chinese medicine. Is it a mushroom? Well, not really, although a lot of people would call it a “mushroom,” which also is a type of fungus. That is not our concern here anyhow. We will look at the claimed health benefits of cordyceps, and whether they are real or just hype.
One interesting factoid about Cordyceps is that it grows on the larvae or bodies of insects. Now does that make it sound tastier? But seriously, let’s take a closer look at this increasingly popular dietary supplement.
How Cordyceps is Used
Cordyceps can be used in various forms, including:
Supplements: Cordyceps supplements are available in the form of capsules, powders, or extracts. These supplements generally claim to boost energy, such as for athletic performance.
Tea: Cordyceps can also be used to make tea. You can steep the cordyceps in hot water for several minutes and then remove the cordyceps, such as by straining. Cordyceps tea is claimed to help with fatigue and improve lung function.
Cooking: Cordyceps can be used as an ingredient in cooking. It can be added to soups, stews, and other dishes to add flavor and an exotic aura.
Topical Use: Cordyceps extract can be applied topically to the skin. It is claimed to have anti-inflammatory and anti-wrinkle properties, and can be used to treat skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis.
It is important to note that cordyceps may interact with certain medications and may not be suitable for everyone. If you are considering using cordyceps, it is important to speak with a doctor or licensed healthcare professional first.
Benefits of Cordyceps
Cordyceps is a type of fungus that has been used in traditional Chinese treatments. It is claimed to have many health benefits, including boosting energy andย improving lung function. In this article, we will explore these claims in more detail and consider whether they are real, such as supported by objective evidence.
Boosting Energy
One of the primary benefits claimed for cordyceps is its ability to boost energy levels. In traditional Chinese medicine, it is asserted to help improve overall energy and vitality. There is some anecdotal research that is not complete that supports this claim, although more research is needed to verify if cordyceps can increase cellular energy production, improve oxygen utilization, and enhance exercise performance.
Improving Lung Function
Another traditional use of cordyceps is for improving lung function, to help improve breathing in people with respiratory conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). There has been some speculation that cordyceps may have a bronchodilating effect, which might help. However, other than anecdotal user reports, there is not sufficient scientific evidence of this.
Enhancing Athletic Performance
Some athletes also have used cordyceps for its energy boosting reputation, with the hope it can enhance athletic performance. There has been some speculation that cordceps may improve oxygen utilization and thereby increase endurance and reduce fatigue during exercise. There have been anecdotal studies done where some users have reported a better power performance, but as yet there has not been scientific research proving improvement.
Other Potential Benefits of Cordyceps
In addition to its energy-boosting, lung-function-improving, and athletic-enhancing properties, cordyceps has been reputed to have some potential health benefits. Some non-scientific studies have suggested that cordyceps may have anti-inflammatory effect, that can potentially be a help with wrinkles or possibly other ailments. One study has shown some anti-inflammatory effect in animals.
Limitations on the use of Cordyceps
While there is a lot of interest in the health benefits of cordyceps, it is important to note that more research is needed to fully understand whether it has real effects on health, and the mechanisms by which those effects may occur. The studies that have been conducted so far are limited in scope and often have small sample sizes, making it impossible to draw conclusions. However, there are people who report that they have felt improvements.
That being said, there is some evidence to suggest that cordyceps may be beneficial for certain health conditions. For example, research has shown that cordyceps can improve lung function in people with respiratory conditions like asthma and COPD, and can enhance exercise performance in healthy individuals. Additionally, some studies have suggested that cordyceps may have anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, and anti-aging effects.
However, it is important to approach these claims with some skepticism and to consider the quality of the studies that have been conducted. While some studies have found positive results, others have been inconclusive or have failed to show a significant effect.
Potential Side Effects and Precautions
While cordyceps is generally considered safe for most people if used in moderation, it may interact with certain medications and may not be suitable for everyone. Some potential side effects of cordyceps include gastrointestinal upset, dry mouth, and dizziness.
If you are considering using cordyceps, it is important to speak with a healthcare professional first, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking any medications. Cordyceps may interact with blood thinners, immunosuppressants, and certain medications used to treat diabetes.
It is also worth noting that cordyceps is not a magic bullet and should not be relied upon as a sole treatment for any health condition. It should be used in conjunction with other therapies, such as medication, lifestyle changes, and other forms of complementary medicine.
Cordyceps is a type of fungus that has been used in traditional Chinese medicine. It is claimed to have many health benefits, including boosting energy, improving lung function, and enhancing athletic performance. While some of these claims are supported by some research, more studies are needed to fully understand the potential benefits and risks of cordyceps. If you are considering using cordyceps, be sure to speak with your doctor or a licensed healthcare professional first to determine if it is right for you.