Cordyceps (Cordyceps sinensis) Flashcards
(12 cards)
What is the origin of Cordyceps?
Cordyceps is a parasitic fungus that grows on insects. It originated in Tibet at over 3500 m altitude but is now cultivated worldwide.
What are the key constituents of Cordyceps?
Polysaccharides, cordycepin acid, nucleosides, ergosterol, and sterols.
What is the traditional use of Cordyceps in Traditional Chinese Medicine?
Cordyceps is believed to support kidney energy and rejuvenation, especially during convalescence.
How does Cordyceps support kidney health?
Cordyceps decreases proteinuria, improves creatine clearance, promotes regeneration of kidney tubular cells, and protects from immunosuppressant damage.
How does Cordyceps benefit liver diseases?
Cordycepin acid in Cordyceps improves hepatocyte function, decreases fibrotic tissue in cirrhosis, and improves liver function in hepatitis B and C.
What cardiovascular benefits does Cordyceps provide?
Cordyceps has anti-inflammatory activity, acts as a cardiotonic, helps with arrhythmias, increases nitric oxide production, and lowers blood pressure. It also has anti-thrombotic properties.
How does Cordyceps support respiratory health?
Cordyceps improves function in asthma, chronic bronchitis, and COPD, reduces inflammation, and strengthens the immune system with antiviral effects.
How does Cordyceps help with fatigue and concentration?
The adenosine content of Cordyceps boosts energy, reduces fatigue, and improves memory and learning capacity.
How does Cordyceps influence reproductive health?
Cordyceps enhances fertility and libido, increases testosterone production in men, and regulates ovarian hormone production in women, aiding in menstrual cycle regulation.
What is Cordyceps’ effect on depression?
Cordyceps acts as an MAO inhibitor, increasing dopamine and serotonin levels, which improves mood.
What is the recommended dosage of Cordyceps?
The dosage range is 2–5 g per day.
What safety considerations are there when using Cordyceps?
Caution with immunosuppressant drugs due to immunostimulatory effects, caution in hormone-dependent cancers, and safety during pregnancy and lactation is not established.
