Overview:
Cordyceps sinensis, also known as the caterpillar mushrooms in North America, is considered one of the most treasured herbal ingredients in oriental medicine. First found as yartsa gunbu in Tibet during the 15th Century, cordyceps has been used to maintain liver(1) and renal(2) functions, improve ensurance and energy level(3), and effectively improves cardiovascular health(4).
Active Constituents
Cordyceps contains beta-D-glucan, cordycepic acid(5), adenosines(5), and immunomodulatory peptides, which are believed to contribute to this medicinal mushroom’s adaptive capabilities for a better health.
Pharmacological and Clinical Research: Original Research on Cordyceps mushrooms
References:
1. Nakamura et al., Inhibitory effect of Cordyceps sinensis on experimental hepatic metastasis of melanoma by suppressing tumor cell invasion., Anticancer Res. 2010 Sep;30(9):3429-33.
2. Ye et al., Effect of Cordyceps sinensis on renal function of patients with chronic allograft nephropathy., Urol Int. 2011;86(3):298-301. Epub 2011 Feb 19.
3. Cramer et al., Effects of a supplement designed to increase ATP levels on muscle strength, power output, and endurance., J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2008 Jan 29;5:3.
4. Chen et al., Protein constituent contributes to the hypotensive and vasorelaxant activities of Cordyceps sinensis., Life Sci. 2000 Feb 25;66(14):1369-76.
5. Tang et al., Cordyceps fungi: natural products, pharmacological functions and developmental products., J Pharm Pharmacol. 2009 Mar;61(3):279-91.
