Organic Cordyceps Mushroom Powder Extract
Also known as: Cordyceps sinensis, Ophiocordyceps sinensis, Cordyceps militaris, Caterpillar fungus, Dong Chong Xia Cao, CS-4
Overview
Cordyceps is a genus of fungi, with *Cordyceps sinensis* being the most researched. It naturally grows in the high-altitude regions of the Himalayas and Tibetan Plateau. Due to the scarcity of the naturally occurring fungi, most commercial products utilize cultured mycelium, such as the CS-4 strain. Cordyceps contains bioactive compounds like cordycepin, polysaccharides, and sterols. It has been traditionally used for fatigue, respiratory health, kidney function, and immune support. Current research is focused on its potential benefits for exercise performance, anti-inflammatory effects, and as an adjunctive therapy for chronic diseases. While systematic reviews and meta-analyses exist, the sample sizes in randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are often small, and the methodological quality varies, indicating a moderate level of research maturity.
Benefits
Meta-analyses suggest potential benefits for lung function and exercise endurance in individuals with stable COPD (GOLD stages 2–3), showing improvements in forced expiratory volume (FEV1) and quality of life. However, the effect sizes are modest, and confidence intervals are wide due to small sample sizes. Animal and in vitro studies indicate anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and potential anti-cancer effects, but human evidence for these benefits is limited. The most robust evidence supports its use in respiratory disease and possibly exercise performance, while benefits in healthy populations are less clear. Improvements in FEV1 and quality of life in COPD are statistically significant but not large, and the clinical relevance is uncertain due to limited data. Most studies assess effects over weeks to months; acute effects are not well documented.
How it works
Cordyceps modulates immune function and reduces inflammation by suppressing pro-inflammatory cytokines. It may also enhance mitochondrial function and oxygen utilization. Cordyceps affects the respiratory, immune, and possibly cardiovascular systems. Cordycepin inhibits adenosine deaminase, affecting purine metabolism, while polysaccharides modulate immune cell activity. Limited human data exists regarding absorption and bioavailability. Animal studies suggest that the oral bioavailability of cordycepin is low, but other bioactive compounds may contribute to the observed effects.
Side effects
Cordyceps is generally well-tolerated in clinical studies, with adverse events being rare and mild. Common side effects are not reported in clinical trials. Uncommon side effects, reported in 1-5% of cases, include dry mouth, headache, indigestion, bloating, or rash, although causality is uncertain. Rare side effects, occurring in less than 1% of cases, include possible allergic reactions, though these are not well documented. No significant drug interactions have been reported in clinical studies, but there is a theoretical risk with immunosuppressants or anticoagulants due to its immunomodulatory and antiplatelet effects. There are no established contraindications, but caution is advised for individuals with mushroom allergies. Limited data exists regarding use during pregnancy, lactation, and in children, so caution is advised in these populations.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose of Cordyceps is not well established, but most human studies use 1,000–4,000 mg/day of Cordyceps extract. A dosage range of 1,000–3,000 mg/day is commonly used in clinical trials, with higher doses not demonstrating additional benefits. Animal studies suggest high doses (up to 20 g/kg in mice) are well tolerated, but human data are lacking. There are no specific timing recommendations, and it is typically taken daily. Powdered extract or capsules are the most common forms, and bioavailability may vary by formulation. The bioavailability of cordycepin is low, but other compounds may be more bioavailable. No required cofactors have been identified.
FAQs
Who benefits the most from Cordyceps?
Most benefits are observed in specific populations, such as those with COPD or those seeking to improve exercise performance. The effects in healthy individuals are less clear and require further research.
Is Cordyceps safe to consume?
Cordyceps is generally considered safe, but rare allergic reactions are possible. Individuals with mushroom allergies should exercise caution. Consult with a healthcare provider before use.
When and how should I take Cordyceps?
Daily dosing is typical, and there is no evidence supporting specific timing. It can be taken with or without food. Follow the dosage recommendations on the product label or as advised by a healthcare professional.
What results can I expect from taking Cordyceps?
Modest improvements in lung function and exercise endurance may be observed in certain populations. Other benefits are not well established in humans and should be approached with realistic expectations.
Is Cordyceps a miracle supplement?
No, Cordyceps is not a 'miracle' supplement. While it shows promise in certain areas, the benefits are modest, and the evidence is limited. It should be used as part of a comprehensive health plan.
Research Sources
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1155/2019/4903671 – This systematic review and meta-analysis of multiple RCTs (total sample sizes per study ≤90) involving COPD patients (GOLD stages 2–3) found that Cordyceps preparations improved lung function (FEV1) and quality of life. The supplement was well-tolerated with few adverse events, but the study was limited by small sample sizes, lack of sample size calculations, and potential bias, resulting in a moderate quality assessment.
- https://www.mdpi.com/1420-3049/26/19/5886 – This systematic review of preclinical (animal and in vitro) studies found that cordycepin and Cordyceps extracts have anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and potential anti-cancer effects. The review is limited by a lack of human data, as the evidence is mostly preclinical, resulting in a low to moderate quality assessment for human relevance.
- https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-602/cordyceps – This review of clinical and preclinical evidence involving animal and limited human studies found that Cordyceps is generally safe, with rare mild side effects, and has potential benefits for inflammation and exercise performance. The review is limited by a lack of human RCTs and small sample sizes, resulting in a moderate quality assessment that calls for more human data.
- https://www.mdpi.com/1420-3049/27/23/8170 – This study investigates the diverse bioactive compounds present in Cordyceps species and their potential health benefits. It highlights the immunomodulatory, antioxidant, and anti-tumor properties of Cordyceps, emphasizing its role in traditional medicine and its growing applications in modern healthcare. The review suggests that further research is needed to fully elucidate the mechanisms of action and optimize the therapeutic use of Cordyceps.
- https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/cordyceps-benefits – This article provides an overview of the potential health benefits of Cordyceps, including improved exercise performance, anti-aging properties, and potential anti-tumor effects. It summarizes the current research on Cordyceps and its various applications, highlighting its role as a medicinal mushroom with promising therapeutic potential. The article emphasizes the need for more human studies to confirm these benefits.
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