Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Cordyceps, a genus of parasitic fungi commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine, has a long history of use for enhancing vitality, stamina, and general well-being. However, its specific use for depression is rooted more in traditional practices than in modern scientific validation. In traditional medicine, cordyceps is believed to help balance the body and mind, which may indirectly support mood and stress adaptation. There are very limited clinical studies directly examining cordyceps for depression in humans. Some animal studies suggest that cordyceps extracts could have antidepressant-like effects, possibly through modulation of neurotransmitters or reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, both of which are involved in depression. However, these findings are preliminary, and there is a lack of robust human trials to substantiate these effects. The traditional use of cordyceps for supporting mood is therefore based more on its general reputation as a tonic rather than targeted evidence for depressive disorders. Until more rigorous scientific studies are conducted, cordyceps should not be relied upon as a primary treatment for depression, though it may be used as part of a broader traditional or holistic approach to wellness.

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