Evidence supporting the use of: Cordyceps
For the health condition: Oxygen Deficiency
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2
Cordyceps, a genus of parasitic fungi, has traditionally been used in Tibetan and Chinese medicine to enhance stamina and treat respiratory conditions such as chronic bronchitis and asthma. The scientific rationale for its use in supporting or treating oxygen deficiency (hypoxia) is primarily based on studies that suggest Cordyceps may improve oxygen utilization and aerobic capacity.
Several animal studies and a few small-scale human trials have indicated that Cordyceps supplementation can increase ATP (adenosine triphosphate) production, which in turn may enhance cellular energy and improve the efficiency of oxygen uptake and utilization in the body. Some research also points to the potential of Cordyceps to increase the body’s resistance to hypoxia, possibly by upregulating enzymes involved in oxygen metabolism.
However, the overall quality and scale of the evidence remain limited. Most human studies have been small, short-term, and sometimes not well-controlled. While some trials in athletes suggest improved exercise performance and VO2 max, others have found no significant benefit. The evidence is stronger in animal models than in humans. As a result, while there is a plausible scientific mechanism and some encouraging preliminary data, high-quality clinical trials are lacking. Thus, Cordyceps' use for oxygen deficiency is scientifically plausible but not yet strongly validated.
Other health conditions supported by cordyceps
Acquired Immune Deficiency SyndromeAnemia
Anxiety
Arthritis
Asthma
Athletic and Exercise Aids
Cancer (natural therapy for)
Cancer (prevention)
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects)
Cholesterol (high)
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder
Circulation (poor)
Convalescence
Depression
Diabetes
Digestion (poor)
Emphysema
Endurance (lack of)
Energy (lack of)
Erectile Dysfunction
Exercise
Fatigue
Fibrosis
Hepatitis
Inflammation
Influenza
Liver Detoxification
Memory and Brain Function
Menopause
Muscle Tone (lack of)
Nephritis
Nervous Exhaustion
Oxygen Deficiency
Pain (general remedies for)
Stress
Triglycerides (high)
Tuberculosis
Wasting
Wounds and Sores