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Cordyceps benefits
Yurii ShchehliukCordyceps is a genus of parasitic fungi that grows on insect larvae. These fungi contain components that may offer health benefits, though further research in humans is required to confirm this.
When Cordyceps infect their host, they replace its tissue and sprout long, slender stems outside the host’s body.
For centuries, traditional Chinese medicine has utilized the remains of insects and fungi to treat fatigue, sickness, kidney disease, and low sex drive.
Today, supplements and products containing Cordyceps extract are increasingly popular due to their potential health benefits.
Of the approximately 700 known species of Cordyceps, two—Cordyceps sinensis and Cordyceps militaris—are the primary focus of health research. While promising, much of the research remains limited to animal or lab studies, so conclusive evidence in humans is still lacking.
This article explores six potential health benefits of Cordyceps based on scientific findings.
Exercise Performance
Cordyceps may help increase the body’s production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), a molecule essential for delivering energy to muscles, potentially enhancing oxygen use during exercise.
A 2024 study found that participants who took 1 gram of Cordyceps before a high-intensity workout experienced reduced muscle damage and quicker recovery. However, this was a small study, and additional research is needed to confirm these effects.
Aging and Skin Health
Cordyceps contain polyphenols, which act as antioxidants that combat cell damage caused by free radicals, potentially slowing aging and promoting skin health.
A clinical trial on 40 participants suggested that Cordyceps may have adaptogenic and antioxidant properties, increasing collagen production in the skin. However, more human research is needed to verify these findings.
Cancer
In lab studies, Cordyceps has shown potential in slowing tumor growth in various cancer types, including lung, colon, and liver cancers. Animal studies have also reported anti-tumor effects.
However, these findings are preliminary and require validation through human studies.
Diabetes and Cholesterol
Studies on diabetic mice suggest that Cordyceps may help reduce blood sugar and lipid levels, potentially benefiting those with diabetes or atherosclerosis.
While promising, more research is necessary to confirm these effects in humans.
Heart Health
Animal studies indicate that Cordyceps may reduce oxidative stress, which could help prevent heart enlargement and improve blood fat levels, thereby lowering the risk of heart disease.
Human trials have shown some benefits, but further research is essential to establish definitive effects.
Inflammation
Long-term inflammation can lead to various diseases. Research suggests that Cordyceps may suppress inflammatory proteins, potentially serving as an anti-inflammatory supplement.
Animal studies have shown positive effects on arthritis and asthma, but human studies are needed to confirm these findings.
Dosage and Safety
Cordyceps sinensis is difficult to harvest and expensive, leading most supplements to use a synthetic version, Cordyceps CS-4.
While traditional use and preliminary research suggest Cordyceps is safe, occasional side effects like dry mouth or bloating have been reported. More safety testing in humans is required.
Conclusion
Cordyceps has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine and shows potential for addressing various health concerns, including inflammation, aging, and heart health.
However, current evidence is primarily based on lab and animal studies. More human research is necessary to validate these benefits and establish safe and effective dosages.