Common Names
Caterpillar fungus, tochukas (Japanese), dong chong xia cao (Chinese: summer grass, winter worm).
Natural Habitat
Native to Tibet and southern China. Grows in mountainous meadow regions, high elevation grasslands and marshlands. Found in China and throughout Asia.
Key Components
Cordycepin (3-deooxyadenosine); cordycepic acid; adenosine; sterols: ergosterol; polysaccharides; glactomannans; proteins; nucleosides; antioxidants; lectins.
Overview
Originating from the high Tibetan plateau, cordyceps in its natural environment grows on the larvae of a caterpillar. Due to concerns of contamination with molds and heavy metals, most cordyceps sold today is cultivated on grain-based substrates, which assures quality without affecting the potency.
In ancient China, cordyceps was highly prized and used exclusively in the Emperor’s palace. In traditional Chinese medicine, it is considered protective to the heart, lungs, and kidneys, beneficial for the circulatory and respiratory systems, and is used to improve sexual function.1
Cordyceps has been shown to be a powerful immunomodulator, with the ability to both boost a depressed immune system and downregulate an overactive one.2,3 Studies have found cordyceps increases the numbers of helpful immune cells, such as NK cells (as much as doubling amounts in one study4), and boosts the activity of phagocytes and macrophages.5 Because of cordyceps’ ability to beneficially modulate immune response, it may be helpful in the treatment of autoimmune disorders,6 which have been difficult treat, as well as asthma.7
Cordyceps contains a number of nucleoside analogues, prominent among them cordycepin and 3-deoxyadenosine. Also known as reverse transcriptase inhibitors, these substances have the ability to interrupt RNA/DNA synthesis in virus-infected cells.8 Nucleoside analogues have no effect on healthy cells, but in rapidly dividing virus or cancer cells, they interfere with replication. The combination of cordyceps’ ability to inhibit viral cell replication while boosting immune response to infections makes it very effective against chronic viral infections9. Cordyceps has been studied for use in the treatment of HIV10, cancer,11,12,13,14,15 and hepatitis.16
In cancer research, studies have demonstrated cordyceps’ ability to inhibit the growth of tumors.17,18,19,20,21 A number of components in cordyceps show anti-tumor activity, including its polysaccharides22and sterols.23 Cordyceps’ anti-tumor and anti-cancer action may be due to a combination of its ability to enhance immune function,24 induce cell-death in tumor cells,25 and increase antioxidant activity26.
Supplementation with cordyceps may improve male sexual function. In animal studies, cordyceps improved sperm quantity, quality, and motility27. Supplementation with cordyceps has also been correlated with improved sexual performance and male sex-hormone balance.28,29
Clinical evidence suggests cordyceps may have a beneficial impact on fertility in women. It is increasingly being used in the field of infertility, including in combination with IVF.30 Cordyceps has been shown to increase the production of estrogen, makes it promising for use in postmenopausal osteoporosis31.
Cordyceps is widely known among athletes for its ability to improve energy and endurance. The mushroom appeared in international sports headlines when a team of nine Chinese women runners broke a number of records at the 1993 Chinese National Games and credited their success, in part, to supplementation with cordyceps.32 It has since become part of the training regimen of many runners. Cordyceps’ ability to enhance athletic performance is likely due in part to its ability increase respiratory activity, and oxygen capacity.33
A traditional tonic for the elderly, studies show the anti-aging benefits of cordyceps include increased oxygen uptake and aerobic capacity, and greater resistance to fatigue34,35,36.
Clinical research and animal studies show cordyceps has a protective effect on the liver, and can be helpful for patients battling viral hepatitis A, chronic hepatitis B and C, and other liver disorders37. It may also inhibit hepatic fibrosis and help restore function in cases of liver damage38.
Clinical studies on the use of cordyceps in diabetes has found supplementation can lower blood glucose levels, decrease insulin resistance, and improve blood sugar profile39,40,41.
1 Hobbs, C. Medicinal Mushrooms: An Exploration of Tradition, Healing & Culture. 1986, Botanica Press, p. 85.
2 Xiong, Y., et al. 2013. Suppression of T-cell activation in vitro and in vivo by cordycepin from Cordyceps militaris. Journal of Surgical Research. 2013 Jul.
3 Zhou, X., et al. 2002. Effect of cordycepin on interleukin-10 production of human peripheral blood mononuclear cells. European Journal of Pharmacology. 453 (2002) 309–317
4 Stamets, P., 2002. MycoMedicinals: An Informational Treatise on Mushrooms. MycoMedia, Olympia, WA, p. 58
5 Gong, M., et al. 1990. Molecular structure and immunoactivity of the polysaccharide from Cordyceps sinensis. Shengwu Huaxue Zazl. 6:486-492.
6 Xiong, Y., et al. 2013. Suppression of T-cell activation in vitro and in vivo by cordycepin from Cordyceps militaris. Journal of Surgical Research. 2013 Jul.
7 Heo, J.C. 2010. Anti-asthmatic activities in mycelial extract and culture filtrate of Cordyceps sphecocephala J201. International Journal of Molecular Medicine. 26 (3), 351-356.
8 Muller, W.E., et al. 1991. Cordycepin analogues of 2’,5’-oligoadenylate inhibit human immunodeficiency virus infection via inhibition of reverse transcriptase. Biochemistry. 30 (8), 2027-2033.
9 Powell, M., 2010. Medicinal Mushrooms: A Clinical Guide, Mycology Press, East Sussex U.K., p. 44
10 Muller, W.E., et al.1991. Cordycepin analogues of 2’,5’-oligoadenylate inhibit human immunodeficiency virus infection via inhibition of reverse transcriptase. Biochemistry. 30 (8), 2027-2033.
11 Chen, L.S., et al. RNA-directed agent, cordycepin, induces cell death in multiple myeloma cells. British Journal of Haematology. 2008. 140 (6), 682-691.
12 Lee, E.J., et al. Cordycepin suppresses TNF-alpha-induced invasion, migration and matrix metalloproteinase-9 expression in human bladder cancer cells. Phytotherapy Research. 2010. 24 (12), 1755-1761.
13 Chen, Y.J., et al. Effect of Cordyceps sinensis on the proliferation and differentiation of human leukemic U937 cells. Life Sciences. 1997. 60 (25), 2349-2359.
14 Xu, R.H., et al. Effects of Cordyceps sinensis on natural killer activity and colony formation of B16 melanoma.
15 Wu, J.Y., et al. Inhibitory effects of ethyl acetate extract of Cordyceps sinensis mycelium on various cancer cells in culture and B16 melanoma in C57BL/6 mice. Phytomedicine. 2007. 14 (1), 43-49.
16 Zhou, L., et al. Short-term curative effect of cultured Cordyceps sinensis (Berk.) Sacc. Mycelia in chronic hepatitis B. China Journal of Chinese Materia Medica. 1990. 15:53-55, 65.
17 Chen, L.S., et al. RNA-directed agent, cordycepin, induces cell death in multiple myeloma cells. British Journal of Haematology. 2008. 140 (6), 682-691.
18 Lee, E.J., et al. Cordycepin suppresses TNF-alpha-induced invasion, migration and matrix metalloproteinase-9 expression in human bladder cancer cells. Phytotherapy Research. 2010. 24 (12), 1755-1761.
19Chen, Y.J., et al. Effect of Cordyceps sinensis on the proliferation and differentiation of human leukemic U937 cells. Life Sciences. 1997. 60 (25), 2349-2359.
20 Xu, R.H., et al. Effects of Cordyceps sinensis on natural killer activity and colony formation of B16 melanoma.
21 Wu, J.Y., et al. Inhibitory effects of ethyl acetate extract of Cordyceps sinensis mycelium on various cancer cells in culture and B16 melanoma in C57BL/6 mice. Phytomedicine. 2007. 14 (1), 43-49.
22 Chen, Y.J., et al. Effect of Cordyceps sinensis on the proliferation and differentiation of human leukemic U937 cells. Life Sciences. 1997. 60 (25), 2349-2359.
23 Wu, J.Y., et al. Inhibitory effects of ethyl acetate extract of Cordyceps sinensis mycelium on various scancer cells in culture and B16 melanoma in C57BL/6 mice. Phytomedicine. 2007. 14 (1), 43-49.
24 Zhou, X., et al. Effect of cordycepin on interleukin-10 production of human peripheral blood mononuclear cells. European Journal of Pharmacology. 2002. 453 (2002) 309-317.
25 Yoshikawa, N., et al. Antitumour activity of cordycepin in mice. Clinical and Experimental Pharmacology and Physiology. 2004. Suppl 2:S51-53.
26 Cordyceps fungi: natural products, pharmacological functions and developmental products. Zhou X, Gong Z, Su Y, Lin J, Tang K. J Pharm Pharmacol. 2009;61(3):27.
27 Improvement of sperm production in subfertile boars by Cordyceps militaris supplement. Am J Chin Med. 2007;35(4)
28 Chang, Y. et al. Effect of Cordyceps militaris supplementation on sperm production, sperm motility and hormones in Sprague-Dawley rats. The American Journal of Chinese Medicine. 2008. 36 (5).
29 Lin, W.H., et al. Improvement of sperm production in subfertile boars by Cordyceps militaris supplement. The American Journal of Chinese Medicine. 2007. 35 (4).
30Huang, B.M., et al. Upregulation of steroidogenic enzymes and ovarian 17β-estradiol in human granulosa-lutein cells by Cordyceps sinensis mycelium. Biology of Reproduction. 2004. 70 (5), 1358-1364.
31 Upregulation of steroidogenic enzymes and ovarian 17β-estradiol in human granulosa-lutein cells by Cordyceps sinensis mycelium. Biology of Reproduction, May 1, 2004 vol. 70 no. 5 1358-1364
32 Holliday, J., and Cleaver, M. Medicinal value of the caterpillar fungi species of the genus cordyceps (Fr.) Link (Ascomycetes.) A Review. International Journal of Medicinal Mushrooms. 2008. 10 (3), 219-234.
33 Xiao Y., et al. 2004. Randomized double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial and assessment of fermentation product of Cordyceps sinensis (Cs-4) in enhancing aerobic capacity and respiratory function of the healthy elderly volunteers. Chinese Journal of Integrative Medicine. 10 (3), 187-192.
34 Increased aerobic capacity in healthy elderly humans given a fermentation product of cordyceps CS-4. Xiao, Y.; Huang, X. Z.; Chen, G.; Wang, M. B.; Zhu, J. S.; Cooper, C. B. FACSM Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise: May 1999 – Volume 31 – Issue 5 – p S174
35Antiaging effect of Cordyceps sinensis extract. Ji D.B, Ye J, Li C.L, Wang Y.H, Zhao J, Cai S.Q. Phytother Res. 2009;23(1):116-22.
36Cordyceps fungi: natural products, pharmacological functions and developmental products. Zhou X, Gong Z, Su Y, Lin J, Tang K. J Pharm Pharmacol. 2009;61(3):29.
37 Inhibitive effect of Cordyceps sinensis on experimental hepatic fibrosis and its Possible mechanism. Liu YK, Shen W. China World J Gastroenterol. 2003. 9(3):529-33.
38 Anti-hyperglycemic activity of natural and fermented in rats with diabetes induced by nicotinamide and streptozotocin. Lo HC, Hsu TH, Tu ST, Lin KC. Am J Chin Med. 2006;34(5).
39 Hypoglycemic activity of polysaccharide, with antioxidation, isolated from cultured Cordyceps mycelia. Li SP, Zhang GH, Zeng Q, Huang ZG, Wang YT, Dong TT, Tsim KW. Phytomedicine. 2006 Jun;13(6).
Research
1. Randomized double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial and assessment of fermentation product of Cordyceps sinensis (Cs-4) in enhancing aerobic capacity and respiratory function of the healthy elderly volunteers
Xiao Y., et al. Chinese Journal of Integrative Medicine. 2004. 10 (3), 187-192.
In this double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study involving Chinese senior citizens, researchers looked at the effects of Cordyceps sinensis on exercise capacity. Study participants were given either the fermented Cordyceps preparation or a placebo for 6 weeks; exercise performance was evaluated before and after the 6-week period. Maximum oxygen uptake significantly increased in those taking the Cordyceps. Those taking the placebo showed no improvement. Researchers believe Cordyceps could help support exercise performance in elderly individuals.
2. Effect of Cordyceps militaris supplementation on sperm production, sperm motility and hormones in Sprague-Dawley rats
Chang, Y., et al. The American Journal of Chinese Medicine. 2008. 36 (5).
In this in vivo study involving rats, researchers examined the effects of Cordyceps militaris mushroom on sperm quality and quantity. Rats were divided into three groups of 30 each. The control group was given a regular diet; a second group given a diet that included 1% Cordyceps; the third group’s diet included 5% Cordyceps. After 6 weeks, the sperm was analyzed. Sperm count and motility were increased commensurate with the amount of Cordyceps in the diet. The effects lasted for two weeks after the supplemented diet was discontinued. Blood tests also revealed higher levels of serum Cordyceps, testosterone, and estradiol.
3. Improvement of sperm production in subfertile boars by Cordyceps militaris supplement
Lin, W.H., et al. The American Journal of Chinese Medicine. 2007. 35 (4).
In this in vivo study involving male boars with impaired fertility, researchers examined the effects of Cordyceps on sperm quality and quantity. The boars were given either a regular diet or a diet supplemented with Cordyceps for two months. Sperm was tested regularly throughout the test period. Sperm production was significantly improved halfway through the test period. At the two month mark, sperm production and sperm motility and morphology were significantly improved. Improvements were sustained for two weeks after Cordyceps was discontinued. Blood levels of cordycepin also increased during this period. Researchers conclude that Cordyceps may help promote male fertility.
4. The co-effect of Cordyceps sinensis and strontium on osteoporosis in ovariectomized osteopenic rats
Qi, W., et al. Biological Trace Element Research. 2011. 141 (1-3), 216-223.
In this in vivo study involving rats, researchers looked at the effects of Cordyceps sinensis on osteopenic female rats whose ovaries were removed. The rats were given one of three supplements: Cordyceps sinensis, strontium, and a Cordyceps-strontium combination. While strontium-only treatment had some beneficial effect, the combination treatment scored highest on all measured results. The Cordyceps-strontium combination better protected against bone loss. Researchers also found that it enhanced immune function. Researchers believe Cordyceps enriched with strontium has potential for treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis in women.
5. Hypoglycemic activity of polysaccharide, with antioxidation, isolated from cultured Cordyceps mycelia
Li, S.P., et al. Phytomedicine. 2006. 13 (6), 428-433.
In this in vivo study involving mice, researchers looked at the effects of a polysaccharide from Cordyceps on blood sugar levels. The polysaccharide was administered at two different dosage levels to one group of normal rats and two different groups of diabetic rats. In all groups, blood glucose levels were significantly reduced after 7 days. The diabetic rats also showed an increase in insulin levels. Researchers conclude that the Cordyceps polysaccharide may signal the pancreas to release insulin.
6. Structural features and hypoglycemic activity of a polysaccharide (CS-F10) from the cultured mycelium of Cordyceps sinensis
Kiho, T., et al. Biological and Pharmaceutical Bulletin. 1999. 22 (9), 966-970.
Researchers produced a polysaccharide extract from Cordyceps sinensis and examined its structural and chemical characteristics and its effects on diabetic rats. The extract lowered blood sugar levels significantly in two types of diabetic rats. Researchers found that the extract enhanced glucokinase (an enzyme important to carbohydrate metabolism) activity in the liver, which in turn decreased the liver’s output of sugar. The extract also down-regulated the activity of proteins that transport glucose from the liver to the bloodstream. These activities, they believe, explain the blood sugar lowering effects of Cordyceps.
7. Anti-hyperglycemic activity of natural and fermented Cordyceps sinensis in rats with diabetes induced by nicotinamide and streptozotocin
Lo H.C., et al. The American Journal of Chinese Medicine. 2006. 34 (5)
Researchers evaluated various preparations from Cordyceps sinensis on blood sugar levels in rats. The preparations studied included the fruiting body, fermented mycelia, fermented broth, or fermented mycelia with broth. Each group of rats was given a different preparation; a control group was given a placebo. All the rats who received the various Cordyceps preparations showed significantly lower blood sugar levels. Researchers conclude that any of the fermented preparations may have therapeutic value in controlling blood sugar.
8. Cordycepin suppresses expression of diabetes regulating genes by inhibition of lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammation in macrophages
Shin, S., et al. Immune Network. 2009. 9 (3), 98-105.
In this in vitro study, researchers evaluated cordycepin, a compound in Cordyceps militaris, for its effects on diabetes-related inflammation. They treated RAW 264.7 cells (a murine cell line) with cordycepin and observed that it suppressed pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1beta, IL-6, and TNF-alpha. It also suppressed production of nitric oxide. The expression of several genes and associated co-factor molecules associated with the regulation of type 2 diabetes were also inhibited. Researchers believe cordycepin shows potential as a therapeutic agent.
9. Inhibitive effect of Cordyceps sinensis on experimental hepatic fibrosis and its possible mechanism
Liu, Y.K. and Shen, W. World Journal of Gastroenterology. 2004. 9 (3), 529-533.
In this in vivo study involving rats, researchers looked at the effects of Cordyceps sinensis on liver damage. Rats were divided into three groups: a control group, a group with induced liver damage, and a group with induced liver damage also given Cordyceps. After nine weeks, blood and tissue specimens were examined using various test methods. Rats who had received Cordyceps showed significantly healthier liver markers. Researchers conclude that Cordyceps sinensis may help prevent liver damage and support healthy liver function.
10. RNA-directed agent, cordycepin, induces cell death in multiple myeloma cells
Chen, L.S., et al. British Journal of Haematology. 2008. 140 (6), 682-391.
In this series of in vitro experiments, researchers sought to test the effects of cordycepin (from Cordyceps mushrooms) as a possible therapeutic agent for multiple myeloma. They treated myeloma cancer cells with cordycepin and found that it inhibited RNA synthesis and cell growth and stimulated apoptosis (cell death). After 48 hours, over 50% of the cells exhibited a protein marker for apoptosis. Researchers also found that transcription (genetic coding information transmitted from DNA to cellular RNA) to produce a gene associated with multiple myeloma was significantly diminished. Researchers believe that treatment approaches that address RNA factors may be more successful in treating multiple myeloma than previous approaches.
11. Effect of cordycepin on interleukin-10 production of human peripheral blood mononuclear cells
Zhou, X., et al. European Journal of Pharmacology. 2002. 453 (2002) 309–317
Researchers investigated the effects of cordycepin on the stimulation of interleukin 10, an anti-inflammatory cytokine involved with immunoregulation. They treated human blood cells with cordycepin and evaluated the effects. Test results showed that the cordycepin stimulated interleukin-10 production and interleukin-10 mRNA expression, and promoted additional immunoregulative benefits. Researchers conclude that cordycepin may be helpful in developing drugs that influence cytokines and act on the immune system.
12. Cordycepin suppresses TNF-alpha-induced invasion, migration and matrix metalloproteinase-9 expression in human bladder cancer cells
Lee, E.J., et al. Phytotherapy Research. 2010. 24 (12), 1755-1761.
In this in vitro study, researchers examined the effects of cordycepin from Cordyceps mushrooms on the regulation of MMP-9. MMP-9, or matrix metalloproteinases-9, is an enzyme associated with the spread of cancer cells. Using two bladder cancer cell lines, researchers demonstrated that cordycepin suppressed the spread of the cancer cells. The mechanism of action was inhibition of TNF-alpha (tumor necrosis alpha), a cytokine involved in inflammation and when dysfunctional, associated with cancer. The researchers conclude that cordycepin may have applications in cancer treatment.
13. Role of cordycepin and adenosine on the phenotypic switch of macrophages via induced anti-inflammatory cytokines
Shin, S., et al. Immune Network. 2009. 9 (6), 255-264.
Researchers looked at two compounds found in Cordyceps mushrooms, cordycepin and adenosine, for their effects on macrophages, white blood cells that are part of the immune system. The researchers induced inflammation and then observed structural changes to the macrophages. When the macrophages were treated with high doses of cordycepin, they returned to their original shape. Lesser amounts of adenosine yielded similar results. Researchers believe that both the substances show potential as therapeutic agents for inflammatory diseases.
14. In vivo anti-influenza virus activity of an immunomodulatory acidic polysaccharide isolated from Cordyceps militaris grown on germinated soybeans
Ohta Y., et al. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry. 2007. 55 (25), 10194-10199.
In this series of experiments, researchers examined the effects of a polysaccharide from Cordyceps militaris on type A influenza. The polysaccharide was administered into the nasal passages of mice who were infected with influenza virus. Virus titers obtained by bronchoalveolar lavage (washing the lungs for subsequent examination of the fluid) indicated a decreased amount of virus titers. The mice who received the polysaccharide had higher survival rates. Compared to controls, the treated mice showed increased TNF-alpha and IFN-gamma levels, which indicate enhanced immune activity. In vitro, the treatment stimulated immune system cytokines. Researchers conclude that the polysaccharide from Cordyceps likely enhances macrophage activity to combat the influenza virus.
15. Cordyceps sinensis health supplement enhances recovery from Taxol-induced leukopenia
Liu, W.C., et al. Experimental Biology and Medicine. 2008. 233 (4), 447-455.
Researchers looked at the ability of Cordyceps sinensis to counteract one of the common side effects of chemotherapy, leucopenia (diminished white blood cell count). Mice were given Taxol, a chemotherapy drug, and then given a 3-week course of Cordyceps. White blood cell counts of Cordyceps mice and control mice were compared after 28 days. Control mice (who had received Taxol but not Cordyceps) had diminished low blood cell counts with levels at 50% of normal. Mice who were treated with Cordyceps after being given Taxol showed normal white blood cell counts.
16. Protection against radiation-induced bone marrow and intestinal injuries by Cordyceps sinensis, a Chinese herbal medicine
Liu, W.C., et al. Radiation Research. 2006. 166 (6), 900-907.
Researchers examined the effects on irradiated mice of an extract derived from Cordyceps sinensis. Total-body irradiation was administered to mice to induce bone marrow and intestinal damage. Mice who were treated with Cordyceps had longer survival rates. When lesser doses of irradiation were administered, Cordyceps protected the bone marrow sufficiently so that it did not cause death. Researchers also found that in vitro the Cordyceps inhibited cellular free radicals, which they believe contributes to its protective effects.
17. Effect of Cordyceps sinensis on the proliferation and differentiation of human leukemic U937 cells
Chen, Y.J., et al. Life Sciences. 1997. 60 (25), 2349-2359.
Researchers isolated a polysaccharide fraction of Cordyceps sinensis and tested its effects on human leukemia cells. They treated a growing medium with the mushroom polysaccharide fraction, and then attempted to culture leukemia cells in the medium. The Cordyceps-treated medium suppressed cancer cell proliferation by up to 83%. In addition, some of the cultured cells took on characteristics of immune-system cells. Levels of IFN gamma, TNF-alpha, and IL-1 (all cytokines which are part of the immune system) were also enhanced, contributing to the suppression of cancer cell proliferation.
18. Effects of Cordyceps sinensis on natural killer activity and colony formation of B16 melanoma
Xu, R.H., et al. Chinese Medical Journal (English edition). 1992. 105 (2), 97-101.
In this series of experiments, researchers looked at the effects of a Cordyceps sinensis extract on immune activity. In both in vivo and in vitro experiments, Cordyceps boosted natural killer cell activity. When mice were given a chemical to suppress natural killer cell activity, Cordyceps treatment counteracted this effect. When mice were given Cordyceps, the spread of melanoma in their lungs was reduced. In an in vitro experiment, researchers treated cells with Cordyceps and observed an increase in natural killer cell activity. Based on these results, researchers conclude Cordyceps has the potential to enhance immune activity and shows promise in the treatment of cancer.
19. Inhibitory effects of ethyl acetate extract of Cordyceps sinensis mycelium on various cancer cells in culture and B16 melanoma in C57BL/6 mice
Wu, J.Y., et al. Phytomedicine. 2007. 14 (1), 43-49.
Researchers produced four different extracts of the mycelium of Cordyceps sinensis and tested them for their effects on four cancer cell lines. The hot water extract showed little effect. The other three extracts (petroleum ether, ethyl acetate, and ethanol) had significant effects against the cancer cells. The ethyl acetate Cordyceps extract showed the greatest effect across the board. In addition, it was the least toxic to healthy mouse bone marrow cells. Closer examination of the ethyl acetate extract revealed the active compound to be ergosterol. The ethyl acetate extract was then tested in vitro on mice, reducing melanoma tumor size by 60%.
20. Effects of fermented Cordyceps powder on pulmonary function in sensitized guinea pigs and airway inflammation in sensitized rats
Lin, X.X., et al. Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi. 2001. 26 (9), 622-625.
In this in vivo study involving rats and guinea pigs, researchers looked at the effects of Cordyceps sinensis on pulmonary function. They administered powdered Cordyceps to test animals and then used ovalbumin, a protein, to stimulate an allergic reaction. They then conducted bronchoalveolar lavage on the animals and examined the fluid. They found that Cordyceps suppressed the expected increase in eosinophils, white blood cells that are involved in asthmatic and allergic reactions. Researchers believe these findings indicate that Cordyceps may have potential in the treatment of asthma.
