Cordyceps Sinensis Mushroom Mycelium Extract
Also known as: Cordyceps sinensis, Chinese caterpillar fungus, caterpillar fungus, dong chong xia cao, Ophiocordyceps sinensis
Overview
*Ophiocordyceps sinensis* is a parasitic fungus that primarily grows on the larvae of moths, predominantly found in the high-altitude regions of the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau. This fungus is revered in traditional Chinese medicine and is known for its diverse bioactive compounds, including cordyceps polysaccharide, cordycepin, and cordycepic acid. Historically, it has been employed for its anti-fatigue, antitumor, and kidney-protective properties. The extract is commonly used in modern contexts as an adjunctive treatment for renal dysfunction, particularly among patients undergoing dialysis. Research supports its immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant characteristics, backed by a substantial body of clinical evidence, including systematic reviews and meta-analyses.
Benefits
1. **Renal Function Improvement**: Clinical evidence indicates that *O. sinensis* can significantly enhance renal function, especially in patients with renal dysfunction. A meta-analysis of 35 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving 2,914 patients showed notable improvements in serum creatinine (SCr) and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels. 2. **Immune System Modulation**: The fungus has been shown to enhance immune responses by increasing T-cell counts and regulating cytokines like IFN-γ and IL-12. 3. **Anti-inflammatory Effects**: Evidence demonstrates that the extracts can lower markers of inflammation, such as TNF-α and IL-6, and possess significant antioxidant properties. 4. **Cardiovascular Protection**: Preliminary research suggests potential cardiovascular benefits in dialysis patients, though further investigation is warranted. 5. **Specific Population Benefits**: Particularly beneficial for dialysis patients, where systematic reviews indicate improved renal function and a decrease in cardiovascular risks.
How it works
*Ophiocordyceps sinensis* exhibits its biological effects through several mechanisms. Primarily, it modulates the immune system by regulating cytokine production and activating immune cells like macrophages and natural killer cells. It interacts with specific signaling pathways, such as the MAPK pathway, to influence inflammatory responses. Additionally, it protects renal structures from damage, thereby promoting improved renal function and potentially mitigating cardiovascular risks by enhancing overall immune health.
Side effects
Generally, *Ophiocordyceps sinensis* is considered safe for most individuals when consumed appropriately. Common side effects, reported in over 5% of users, include gastrointestinal issues like nausea and diarrhea. Uncommon side effects, occurring in 1-5% of users, may involve allergic reactions and skin rashes. Rarely (<1%), no severe adverse events have been consistently noted. Caution should be exercised when used alongside immunosuppressive medications and anticoagulants due to potential interactions. It's advised that individuals with autoimmune conditions use this supplement judiciously. The safety profile for pregnant or breastfeeding women remains unclear, and use in children is not recommended due to insufficient evidence.
Dosage
The typical dosing ranges for *Ophiocordyceps sinensis* vary based on the form and specific health conditions. An effective daily dose usually ranges from 1 to 3 grams of the dried fungus or its extracts, with optimal dosages for renal dysfunction often reported at 2-3 grams per day. There are no established maximum safe doses, though higher dosages above 3 grams daily are not widely studied. For best results, continuous daily use over weeks to months is recommended, with standardized extracts being preferred. Absorption may be optimized when taken with food, although specific bioavailability data remains limited.
FAQs
Is *Ophiocordyceps sinensis* safe?
Generally safe for most users, but caution is advised for those with autoimmune diseases or on immunosuppressive therapy.
How should I take this supplement?
Ideally taken consistently over a period of weeks to months to realize full benefits.
What improvements can I expect?
Users may notice enhancements in renal function and immune health, along with potential cardiovascular risk reduction.
Is it a replacement for conventional medicine?
No, it should be used as an adjunct therapy alongside prescribed medical treatments.
Research Sources
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2024.1360997/full – This systematic review and meta-analysis examined the efficacy of *O. sinensis* in dialysis patients, finding significant improvements in renal function parameters and a reduction in cardiovascular disease mortality across 35 RCTs involving 2,914 patients.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/medicine/articles/10.3389/fmed.2024.1477569/full – The analysis focused on 15 studies with 1,310 patients suffering from renal dysfunction, concluding that *O. sinensis* improved renal function and inflammatory markers, albeit with some studies displaying methodological weaknesses.
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK92758/ – This resource provides an overview of the pharmacological effects and therapeutic potential of *O. sinensis*, emphasizing its role in supporting renal health and modulating immune response, reinforced by meta-analytic data.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2024.1342831/full – This meta-analysis assessed the impact of *O. sinensis* on chronic kidney disease, highlighting improvements in renal function and inflammation, while noting strict exclusion criteria that ensured high study quality.
- https://journals.lww.com/md-journal/fulltext/2022/11180/effects_and_safety_of_ophiocordyceps_sinensis.114.aspx – The study reviewed effects and safety profiles of *O. sinensis*, affirming its potential therapeutic benefits in renal health while also discussing the safety considerations based on current clinical evidence.
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