Cordyceps 101
Dr. Paloma Lehfeldt, M.D.
Cordyceps, a genus of fungi with a history of use in traditional medicine, has been valued for its potential to enhance energy levels and promote overall health. Native to the high-altitude regions of China and Tibet, this fungus has been utilized for centuries in Eastern wellness practices. Modern research is increasingly exploring the biological effects of cordyceps, offering insight into its properties and potential uses in health (Hirsh et al., 2016).
What Is Cordyceps?
Cordyceps refers to a group of parasitic fungi, most notably Cordyceps sinensis and Cordyceps militaris. The health benefits of cordyceps are attributed to its bioactive compounds including cordycepin, its extracts, and its polysaccharides. Current research is geared towards studying these compounds.
Potential Health Benefits
1. Immune Function
Some research suggests that cordyceps may influence immune function through a process known as immunomodulation. Its key constituents, including polysaccharides, cordycepin, and various extracts, appear to interact with immune pathways in distinct ways. These interactions may help regulate immune responses, potentially supporting overall immune health and resilience against infection (Lee et al., 2020).
2. Exercise Performance
Research suggests that cordyceps supplementation may enhance exercise performance by boosting ATP production, a crucial energy source for physical activity. Increased ATP levels can contribute to improved endurance and reduced fatigue during exercise. A study on Cordyceps militaris found that long-term supplementation led to better oxygen consumption and extended time to exhaustion, indicating a positive impact on athletic performance (Hirsch et al., 2016).
3. Inflammation
Chronic inflammation and oxidative stress are linked to the development of various diseases, such as heart disease, diabetes, and neurodegenerative disorders. A study on Cordyceps sinensis demonstrated that an exopolysaccharide derived from the fungus suppressed proinflammatory mediators, suggesting its potential therapeutic value in managing inflammation-related conditions (Zhu et al., 2024).
Considerations
It is important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting supplementation, especially for those with underlying health conditions or who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Additionally, the quality and purity of cordyceps supplements can vary; therefore, sourcing from reputable manufacturers is advised.
Conclusion
There has been an uptick in research surrounding cordyceps and its role in functional health, with early studies highlighting its potential benefits. A deeper understanding of its mechanisms and therapeutic applications is still needed. The bioactive compounds in cordyceps, such as cordycepin and polysaccharides, interact with several biological systems, including immune response and energy production. As with any botanical or mushroom, it’s essential to approach its use with a thorough understanding of the science.
References
Hirsch KR, Smith-Ryan AE, Roelofs EJ, Trexler ET, Mock MG. Cordyceps militaris Improves Tolerance to High-Intensity Exercise After Acute and Chronic Supplementation. J Diet Suppl. 2017 Jan 2;14(1):42-53. doi: 10.1080/19390211.2016.1203386.
Lee, C.-T. et al. (2025) Trends in the immunomodulatory effects of cordyceps militaris: Total extracts, polysaccharides and Cordycepin, Frontiers. Available at: https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2020.575704/full
Zhu YY, Dong YH, Gu FT, Zhao ZC, Huang LX, Cheng WY, Wu JY. Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Cordyceps Cs-HK1 Fungus Exopolysaccharide on Lipopolysaccharide-Stimulated Macrophages via the TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB Pathway. Nutrients. 2024 Nov 14;16(22):3885. doi: 10.3390/nu16223885. PMID: 39599671; PMCID: PMC11597393.
