Cordyceps is a total powerhouse in the supplement world. Used for various ailments in Chinese medicine for hundreds of years, science has shown cordyceps to have many potential benefits, including boosting immunity, managing type 2 diabetes, and even longevity. We'll break down the facts, benefits, and even its unusual origins.
What is Cordyceps?
Cordyceps is a type of parasitic fungus that grows on (and in) caterpillars. If you're feeling grossly disgusted and thinking, "Wow, the Internet is enough for today," you should know that most cordyceps sold in extract form are made in laboratories. They have been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine for various ailments, and while scientific studies of cordyceps are still in their infancy, their findings are promising.
What are the Benefits?
- Boosts the immune system
- Anti-aging ability
- It can help regulate blood sugar
- It improves heart health and lowers cholesterol
- It can act as an anti-inflammatory
- It may have anti-tumor properties
Boosts the Immune System
Studies have shown that cordyceps increase the strength of the immune system. It may also effectively regulate the immune system for autoimmune disorders and as an immunosuppressant after receiving an organ transplant. So if your immune system is overworked (as with a disease like lupus) or suppressed, cordyceps may be able to bring your immune system back to normal levels.
Anti-aging Ability
While studies have not been conducted in humans, cordyceps have been shown to help slow down the aging process. In fact, mice that consumed cordyceps lived several months longer than those that didn't. Another study showed that it also improved their memory and sexual function.
May Help Regulate Blood Sugar
Cordyceps was shown to act similarly to insulin in diabetic rats, helping to lower blood sugar to normal levels. It also reduced their cholesterol levels and helped improve kidney function. The diabetic rats that took the cordyceps also lost more weight than those who took the placebo.
May Improve Heart Health & Lower Cholesterol
Animal studies show that cordyceps lowers "bad" LDL cholesterol, which can build up in the body and lead to heart disease. It also seems to lower triglycerides, which can lead to heart disease too. There isn't enough evidence to show whether it also helps human heart health, but early research is promising.
It can Act as an Anti-Inflammatory.
Scientific studies on mice show that cordyceps can reduce inflammation externally on the skin and internally in the respiratory system.
Can Have Anti-Tumor Properties
Although research is primarily conducted in a laboratory, cordyceps has been shown to slow tumor growth in certain cancers, including ovarian, skin, and lung cancer.
Other Health-Related Benefits
- It can increase endurance during experiences and reduce fatigue
- Increase sex drive
- Good for kidney health
- Rejuvenates the skin and reduces the appearance of aging
- It helps detoxify the body
How Do I Take Cordyceps & What Should I Expect?
Cordyceps can be taken in capsule form, although it is also available as a drink, powder, and tincture or liquid. You can also buy them whole, but they are costly. Capsules are the most popular way to take cordyceps, and since each brand is different, make sure you read the label to ensure you're taking an accurate dose. You can also steep it in tea, but it's up to you!
Cordyceps is widely considered safe to take daily, but talk to a medical professional before starting any new supplement plan. Some people report nausea or diarrhea after taking cordyceps.
Before Taking Cordyceps
Please speak with your doctor before starting any supplement or vitamin pack to ensure it's a healthy choice. In particular, if any of the following applies to you:
- Allergy to mold or yeast: It is possible that you are allergic to supplements
- Take blood-thinning medications: Cordyceps can increase your risk of bleeding.
- Take insulin or any medication that affects your blood glucose: As mentioned, cordyceps can alter blood sugar levels, so talk to your doctor to ensure it doesn't lower your blood sugar too much.
- Pregnant or breastfeeding: Not much data is available on pregnancy and cordyceps or if cordyceps passes into breast milk.
- Have cancer of the myelogenous type, such as chronic myeloid leukemia or acute myeloid leukemia: Cordyceps can increase the same kinds of cells that cause these cancers.
Please remember that we are not doctors or medical professionals, and we strongly recommend talking to your doctor before starting or taking any supplements or making lifestyle changes. NOTHING in this article constitutes medical advice and should not be construed as such. These are general concepts only, not prescriptive information or health advice. We can't stress this enough! Proceed at your own risk.