While traditional healers in Sikkim believed the fungus/mushroom Cordyceps sinensis could treat “all illnesses,” scientifically there are many ways Cordyceps may benefit your health.
It can enhance athletic performance: In a 2018 study, 28 participants with an average age of 22.7 were given 4 grams of a mushroom blend, which contained Cordyceps, for 3 weeks. Once again, those who took the Cordyceps supplements increased their VO2 max by 11%.
Studies suggest Cordyceps increase the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is a primary source of energy for our cells, especially muscles. One study in particular found mice who were given Cordyceps militaris increased their ATP levels and saw a delay in fatigue during swimming and running tests. This may be due to the fact that Cordyceps contain adenosine and it’s needed to produce ATP.
Cardiac (heart) benefits: While more human studies are needed, there are promising animal studies that show Cordyceps may be good for the heart.
One study that tested the effect of Cordyceps in rats with chronic kidney disease saw a decrease in heart injuries after only 8 weeks. This is significant because heart injuries from chronic kidney disease is believed to increase heart failure.
Other studies show Cordyceps may decrease bad cholesterol aka LDL cholesterol and reduce triglyceride levels. (Both high levels of LDL cholesterol and triglycerides are associated with heart disease.)
While there is reticence in the West about fungi, Cordyceps is approved in China to treat arrhythmia, a condition that affects the rate your heart beats.
Like turmeric, research shows that Cordyceps have anti-inflammatory properties. When scientists exposed human cells to Cordyceps, they discovered the proteins that cause inflammation significantly decreased.
Cordyceps have been shown to reduce inflammation in the airways of mice, which may be beneficial for asthma therapy. And when applied topically, Cordyceps can reduce skin inflammation in mice models of disease.
Cordyceps may reduce the effects of the aging process. A study in 2000 published in the “British Journal of Nutrition” links Cordyceps to enhanced memory, improved brain function and an increase in antioxidants in the blood.
An interesting Chinese study found that administering Cordyceps extract to fruit flies significantly prolongs their lifespan by reducing their oxidative stress.
While not clinical trials they are scientific support for beliefs that have grown up in Far Eastern medicine over many thousands of years.
Dr Bob Soin, Doctor of Medicine MA MBBChir (Hons) FRCS MD