Cordyceps militaris

Cordyceps militaris (Dong-Chong-Xia-Cao) is a potential source of herbal remedies. Most people do not know that Cordyceps militaris, along with Ophiocordyceps sinensis (caterpillar fungus), has been used as a remedy since ancient times. There are more than 400 known Cordyceps species, including Cordyceps militaris.

It is also a source of biometabolites for herbal medicines. C. militaris is a species of fungus in the Clavicipitaceae family. The term Cordyceps is derived from the Latin words for club and head, which describe the body of this mushroom. It is found mainly in South America, North America, Asia, and Europe. In India, it is produced artificially or occurs naturally.

Health Benefits

Cordyceps sinensis and C. militaris are two species of Cordyceps with medicinal properties. Traditional Chinese medicine & Tibetan medicine practice prescribes C. sinensis as herbal medicine. In North Sikkim (India), local people also recommend Cordyceps as a herbal medicine for diseases. It is believed that Cordyceps was discovered by Tibetan herders, who ingested it to boost their energy and treat respiratory conditions.

In the past, Cordyceps was used by folk healers, Chinese people, spiritual seekers, and tribesmen for its healing properties. The medicinal effects of Cordyceps sinensis and Cordyceps militaris are being explored. Researchers have successfully produced C. militaris in the laboratory for commercial purposes. According to scientific evidence, Cordyceps is anti-aging/ anti-oxidant, anti-proliferative, anti-leukemic, anti-microbial, anti-fungal, anti-viral, anti-bacterial, insecticidal, anti-fibrotic, hypolipidaemic, anti-HIV, neuroprotective, anti-malarial, anti-diabetic, reno-protective, pneumo-protective, energy booster, and much more.

Side-Effects and Pre-cautions

There is no strong evidence that cordyceps is harmful or toxic to humans. The Chinese government has approved about 50 medicines and dietary supplements for human use. However, there are some restrictions on the use of Cordyceps militaris. Cordyceps is not recommended for pregnant women, people with bleeding disorders, and people who are allergic to mushrooms. Cordyceps can also cause weight loss and hypoglycemia, which can lead to anxiety, palpitations, and confusion. Cordyceps may also have an antiplatelet effect, meaning it can reduce the blood’s ability to clot. It may be harmful to people taking blood-thinning medications.

Although rare in healthy people, cordyceps can cause gastrointestinal problems in some people. It can also negatively affect people suffering from lupus and rheumatoid arthritis. There is still much to be discovered and researched regarding cordyceps. However, you can consult your doctor before taking cordyceps as a dietary supplement.

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