Herbs & Botanicals
What is cordyceps? What is it used for?
Cordyceps is one of the most unique substances found in herbal medicine.
It's actually a form of fungus which grows naturally on the backs of caterpillars
found only in China, Nepal and Tibet. Synthetic versions of cordyceps
have been manufactured in the West without the use of caterpillars.
Cordyceps has played a variety of roles in traditional Chinese medicine,
where it has been used for approximately 1,500 years. Cordyceps fungus
has been described as a very effective herb for treating circulatory,
respiratory and immune problems, as well as sexual dysfunction. It was
also classified as a general health tonic because of its capability to
improve energy, stamina, appetite, endurance, and sleeping patterns. In
tradition Chinese medicine cordyceps is used for the kidney and lungs
meridians.
Exactly how cordyceps works is something of a mystery. Compounds found
in cordyceps are classified as HDPs, or host defense potentiators. These
compounds include: hemicellulose, polysaccharides, nucleosides, triterpeniods,
complex starches and other molecules. Combinations of these compounds
are now believed to stimulate the human immune system, and may aid in
neuron transmission, metabolism, hormonal balance, and nutrient and oxygen
transport.
How much cordyceps should I take?
The exact amount of cordyceps to be taken is not known; however, most
practitioners recommend taking 2-3 grams daily with meals. It will take
approximately one to two months before patients will see the benefits
of cordyceps.
What forms of cordyceps are available?
Many specialty stores and Asian markets sell wild cordyceps fungus complete
with a caterpillar; however, wild cordyceps is quite expensive. Some natural
health food stores sell synthetic versions of cordyceps as capsules.
What can happen if I take too much cordyceps?
Are there any interactions I should be aware of? What precautions should
I take?
The supplement form of cordyceps appears to be safe; at present, there
are no known side-effects or drug interactions associated with the fungus.
However, some risks of lead poisoning have been reported in conjunction
with wild cordyceps. As always, make sure to consult with a qualified
health care provider before taking cordyceps or any other herbal remedy
or dietary supplement.
References
- Chang HM, But PPH (eds.) Pharmacology and Applications
of Chinese Materia Medica, vol. 1. Philadelphia, PA: World Scientific,
1986. pp. 410-413.
- Jones K. Cordyceps: Tonic Food of Ancient China. Seattle, WA:
Sylvan Press, Inc., 1997.
- Kuo YC, Tsai WJ, Shiao MS, et al. Cordyceps sinensis as an immunomodulatory
agent. American Journal of Chinese Medicine 1996;24:111-125.
- Wu TN, Yang KC, Wang CM, et al. Lead poisoning caused by contaminated
cordyceps, a Chinese herbal medicine: two case reports. The Science
of the Total Environment 1996;182:193-195.
- Xiao Y, Huang XZ, Chen G, et al. Increased aerobic capacity in healthy
elderly human adults given a fermentation product of cordyceps Cs-4.
Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise 1999;31(Suppl.):S174
(abstract).
