Research
Cordyceps
42 peer-reviewed studies curated from PubMed and Semantic Scholar.
Studies
Sorted by quality and recency
Adjuvant treatment with Cordyceps sinensis for lung cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.
This meta-analysis of 12 RCTs with 928 patients evaluated the efficacy of Cordyceps sinensis as an adjuvant treatment for lung cancer. The results showed improved tumor response rate, immune function, and quality of life, along with reduced incidence of adverse drug reactions and radiation pneumonitis.
A systematic review on polysaccharides from fermented Cordyceps sinensis: Advances in the preparation, structural characterization, bioactivities, structure-activity relationships.
This systematic review analyzes research data on the preparation, structural characterization, bioactivities, and structure-activity relationships of polysaccharides from fermented Cordyceps sinensis. The review highlights methods for preparing these polysaccharides and their broad spectrum of biological activities, including antioxidant, renal protective, immunomodulatory, antitumor, and hypolipidemic properties.
Efficacy of Cordyceps sinensis as an adjunctive treatment in hemodialysis patients: a systematic review and Meta-analysis.
Systematic review and meta-analysis evaluating the efficacy and safety of Cordyceps sinensis as an adjunctive treatment in hemodialysis patients. The analysis included 12 studies with 655 participants, showing significant improvements in C-reactive protein, serum albumin, malondialdehyde, and hemoglobin levels, but no significant improvement in serum creatinine and LDL cholesterol. The evidence was insufficient to recommend cordyceps due to unclear methodological quality and high heterogeneity.
Use of Ophiocordyceps sinensis (syn. Cordyceps sinensis) combined with angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEI)/angiotensin receptor blockers (ARB) versus ACEI/ARB alone in the treatment of diabetic kidney disease: a meta-analysis.
Meta-analysis of 60 trials involving 4288 participants assessing the effectiveness of Ophiocordyceps sinensis combined with ACEI/ARB versus ACEI/ARB alone in treating diabetic kidney disease. The combination showed better effects on proteinuria, inflammatory, and dyslipidemia status compared to ACEI/ARB alone, but no effect on hyperglycemia. The study calls for further high-quality RCTs to confirm these findings.
Cordyceps sinensis (a traditional Chinese medicine) for kidney transplant recipients.
This meta-analysis reviewed five studies with 447 participants to evaluate Cordyceps sinensis as an adjuvant immunosuppressive treatment for kidney transplant recipients. Compared to azathioprine, Cordyceps showed no significant difference in graft or patient survival but improved graft function and may reduce acute rejection episodes. Compared to low dose CsA, Cordyceps did not show statistically significant differences in patient survival or graft loss. The evidence was limited and of low quality, suggesting the need for longer-term studies.
Cordyceps sinensis (a traditional Chinese medicine) for treating chronic kidney disease.
Meta-analysis of 22 studies involving 1746 participants with chronic kidney disease (CKD) evaluating Cordyceps sinensis. Cordyceps preparations significantly decreased serum creatinine, increased creatinine clearance, and reduced proteinuria. However, the evidence quality was low due to high risk of bias and methodological flaws.
Effect of a New Skin-Lightening Cosmetic Containing Cordyceps Extract in the Treatment of Melasma: A Clinical Trial.
Clinical trial evaluating the efficacy of a skin-lightening cosmetic containing Cordyceps extract in treating melasma in 62 women. Both oral TXA with hydroquinone cream and oral TXA with Cordyceps essence significantly improved melasma, with fewer adverse reactions in the Cordyceps group. Metabolomic analysis suggested enhanced antioxidant activity and improved skin barrier function contributed to clinical improvement.
Efficacy of Cordyceps sinensis as an adjunctive treatment in kidney transplant patients: A systematic-review and meta-analysis.
Systematic review and meta-analysis evaluating the efficacy and safety of cordyceps as an adjunctive treatment in kidney transplant patients. Cordyceps-based therapy showed comparable acute rejection rates and better kidney function compared to azathioprine-based therapy, with reduced incidences of hyperuricemia, hyperlipidemia, hyperglycemia, and liver injury. Cordyceps combined with cyclosporine A showed less nephrotoxicity than cyclosporine A monotherapy.
Review on Natural Enemies and Diseases in the Artificial Cultivation of Chinese Caterpillar Mushroom, Ophiocordyceps sinensis (Ascomycetes).
Systematic review of natural enemies and diseases in the artificial cultivation of Ophiocordyceps sinensis (DCXC). The review categorizes twenty natural enemy species and discusses six microbial pathogens affecting DCXC cultivation, aiming to promote integrated pest management and preservation of this medicinal resource.
An improved dosage regimen of sertraline hydrochloride in the treatment for premature ejaculation: an 8-week, single-blind, randomized controlled study followed by a 4-week, open-label extension study.
RCT evaluating the safety and efficacy of sertraline and mycelium of cordyceps sinensis C4 in patients with premature ejaculation. Patients were randomized to receive either cordyceps sinensis or sertraline 50 mg daily for 8 weeks. An additional 4-week treatment with sertraline 100 mg showed improved outcomes in intravaginal ejaculatory latency time, PEDT score, and CGIC score compared to continuation with 50 mg.
Clinical application of Cordyceps sinensis on immunosuppressive therapy in renal transplantation.
RCT exploring the adjunctive effects of Cordyceps sinensis in renal transplantation patients. The treatment group showed lower incidences of hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity, reduced dosages and concentrations of cyclosporine, and decreased proteinuria and chronic allograft nephropathy progression compared to the control group.
A randomized controlled clinical trial examining the effects of Cordyceps militaris beverage on the immune response in healthy adults.
RCT investigating the effects of a Cordyceps militaris beverage on immune response in healthy adults. The study found increased NK cell activity in both male and female groups and reduced IL-1β and IL-6 levels in males and females, respectively, without affecting blood sugar, lipid, or safety indices.
Immunomodulatory effects of a mycelium extract of Cordyceps (Paecilomyces hepiali; CBG-CS-2): a randomized and double-blind clinical trial
Randomized, double-blind clinical trial assessing the immunomodulatory effects of Cordyceps mycelium extract (Paecilomyces hepiali, CBG-CS-2) in healthy adults. The CBG-CS-2 group showed a significant enhancement in NK cell cytotoxic activity compared to placebo after 8 weeks, suggesting improved cell-mediated immunity.
The Effects of High and Low-Dose Cordyceps Militaris-Containing Mushroom Blend Supplementation After Seven and Twenty-Eight Days
This study examined the effects of low-dose and high-dose Cordyceps militaris-containing mushroom blend supplementation on aerobic performance in young adults. The low-dose group showed significant improvements in time to fatigue, VO2peak, and reduced blood lactate after 28 days. The high-dose group showed significant increases in VO2peak and peak power after 7 days, with effects varying by fitness level.
Clinical Effects of a Commercial Supplement of Ophiocordyceps sinensis and Ganoderma lucidum on Cognitive Function of Healthy Young Volunteers.
RCT evaluating the effects of a commercial supplement containing Ophiocordyceps sinensis and Ganoderma lucidum on cognitive function in 96 healthy young volunteers. No significant differences in cognitive function domains were observed between the high-dose, low-dose, and placebo groups after 30 days.
Effect of Dongchongxiacao (Cordyceps) therapy on contrast-induced nephropathy in patients with type 2 diabetes and renal insufficiency undergoing coronary angiography.
RCT of 120 patients with type 2 diabetes and renal insufficiency undergoing coronary angiography, comparing basic treatment to standard and intensive Cordyceps (DCXC) therapy. DCXC treatment reduced the prevalence of contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) and eGFR decrease, with intensive therapy showing more significant effects.
Cordyceps militaris Enhances Cell-Mediated Immunity in Healthy Korean Men.
RCT of 79 healthy male adults testing 1.5g/day of ethanol-treated Cordyceps militaris for 4 weeks. The C. militaris group showed significant increases in NK cell activity, lymphocyte proliferation, and Th1 cytokine secretion compared to placebo, with no significant adverse reactions.
Role of dongchongxiacao (Cordyceps) in prevention of contrast-induced nephropathy in patients with stable angina pectoris.
RCT studying the preventative effects of Dongchongxiacao (Cordyceps) on contrast-induced nephropathy in 103 patients with stable angina pectoris. The Cordyceps treatment group showed lower post-procedure serum creatinine and kidney injury markers compared to the basic treatment group, suggesting potential renal protective effects.
[Clinical research of xinganbao capsule on the treatment of chronic hepatitis B liver fibrosis].
RCT of 60 patients with chronic hepatitis B comparing Xinganbao Capsule (Cordyceps Sinensis) to Heluo Shugan Tablet. Xinganbao Capsule improved liver function, reduced liver inflammation, and decreased fibrosis in a significant number of patients.
Efficacy of Cordyceps sinensis in long term treatment of renal transplant patients.
RCT investigating the use of Cordyceps sinensis in long-term treatment of renal transplant patients. The study found no significant difference in renal function and survival rates between groups, but lower incidences of complications and reduced cyclosporin A dosage in the treatment group. Serum IL-10 levels were higher in the treatment group.
[Treatment of chronic allograft nephropathy with combination of enalapril and bailing capsule].
RCT investigating the effect of enalapril and Bailing Capsule (fermented cordyceps sinensis) on renal function in chronic allograft nephropathy patients. Combined treatment improved creatinine clearance and reduced serum creatinine, urinary protein, and urinary TGF-beta1 levels more effectively than either treatment alone.
[Study on effect of Cordyceps sinensis and artemisinin in preventing recurrence of lupus nephritis].
RCT of 61 lupus nephritis patients comparing Cordyceps sinensis and artemisinin to control treatment over 5 years. The treated group showed a significantly higher rate of effectiveness in preventing recurrence of lupus nephritis and protecting kidney function, with fewer side effects.
A novel combination of enzymatic hydrolysis and fermentation: Effects on the flavor and nutritional quality of fermented Cordyceps militaris beverage
The study evaluated the effects of enzymatic hydrolysis and fermentation on the flavor and nutritional quality of fermented Cordyceps militaris beverage. The process increased cordycepin content and antioxidant capacity, suggesting potential as a functional beverage.
Rhodiola crenulata- and Cordyceps sinensis-based supplement boosts aerobic exercise performance after short-term high altitude training.
RCT examining the effect of Rhodiola crenulata and Cordyceps sinensis supplementation on aerobic exercise capacity following 2-week high altitude training. The RC group showed a longer exhaustive run time and better maintenance of parasympathetic activity compared to the placebo group.
Effect of Cs-4 (Cordyceps sinensis) on exercise performance in healthy older subjects: a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.
Double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of 20 healthy elderly subjects taking Cs-4 (Cordyceps sinensis) or placebo for 12 weeks. Cs-4 increased metabolic and ventilatory thresholds, suggesting improved exercise performance, with no changes in Vo(2) max.
Cordyceps sinensis- and Rhodiola rosea-based supplementation in male cyclists and its effect on muscle tissue oxygen saturation.
Double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study examining the effects of Cordyceps sinensis and Rhodiola rosea supplementation on muscle tissue oxygen saturation in male cyclists during maximal exercise. No significant differences were found in muscle tissue oxygen saturation or other performance metrics between the treatment and control groups.
Cordyceps Sinensis (CordyMax Cs-4) supplementation does not improve endurance exercise performance.
RCT investigating the effects of Cordyceps Sinensis (CordyMax Cs-4) supplementation on VO2peak, ventilatory threshold, and endurance performance in 22 male cyclists over 5 weeks. The study found no effect on aerobic capacity or endurance exercise performance.
Effects of a commercial herbal-based formula on exercise performance in cyclists.
RCT examining the effects of a commercial herbal-based formula containing Cordyceps sinensis and Rhodiola rosea on exercise performance in 17 amateur cyclists. The study found no significant treatment effect on peak VO2, time to exhaustion, peak power output, or other exercise variables.
Anti-Diabetic Activity of Cordyceps-Fermented Edible Insects by the Promotion of Glucose Absorption
The study investigated the effect of Cordyceps-fermentation on the nutritional composition and functional benefits of six edible insects. Fermentation increased protein content and decreased carbohydrate content, and the fermented insects showed anti-diabetic efficacy by promoting glucose absorption in L6-GLUT4myc cells. Cordycepin was produced in varying amounts depending on insect type and cultivation conditions.
Supercritical Carbon Dioxide Extracts of Cordyceps sinensis: Chromatography-based Metabolite Profiling and Protective Efficacy Against Hypobaric Hypoxia
The study characterizes supercritical CO2 extracts of Cordyceps sinensis, a medicinal mushroom, using chromatography and evaluates their protective efficacy against hypobaric hypoxia. The extracts demonstrated antibacterial activity and cytoprotective effects in a simulated hypobaric hypoxia environment, with CSF2 improving cell viability and modulating HIF-1α levels.
Cordyceps militaris induces apoptosis in ovarian cancer cells through TNF-α/TNFR1-mediated inhibition of NF-κB phosphorylation
The study investigates the effects of Cordyceps militaris extract on ovarian cancer cells, showing that it reduces cell viability and induces apoptosis through TNF-α/TNFR1-mediated inhibition of NF-κB phosphorylation. The extract decreased cell migration and modulated apoptotic pathways, suggesting potential antitumor properties.
[Effect of Jinshuibao capsule on the immunological function of 36 patients with advanced cancer].
RCT studying the effect of Jinshuibao Capsule on immunological function in 36 patients with advanced cancer. It restored cellular immunological function and improved quality of life, but had no significant effect on humoral immunological function.
Amelioration of cyclosporin nephrotoxicity by Cordyceps sinensis in kidney-transplanted recipients.
RCT studying the effect of Cordyceps sinensis on cyclosporin nephrotoxicity in kidney-transplanted recipients. The study suggests potential amelioration of nephrotoxicity.
Cordyceps More Than Edible Mushroom-A Rich Source of Diverse Bioactive Metabolites with Huge Medicinal Benefits
This narrative review discusses the therapeutic capabilities of the Cordyceps mushroom genus, its use in maintaining health, and its status in the global marketplace. It highlights the importance of Cordyceps cultivation and industry practices, and suggests areas for further research.
Cordyceps spp.: A Review on Its Immune-Stimulatory and Other Biological Potentials
This narrative review examines the immunostimulatory and other biological potentials of Cordyceps species. It discusses the effects of Cordyceps on cytokine production, immune cell stimulation, and various pharmacological activities such as antioxidant, anti-cancer, and anti-aging effects, highlighting the bioactive compounds involved.
Trends in the Immunomodulatory Effects of Cordyceps militaris: Total Extracts, Polysaccharides and Cordycepin
This narrative review catalogs the immunomodulatory effects of different extracts of Cordyceps militaris, including total extracts, polysaccharides, and cordycepin. It highlights how different extracts promote type 1 or type 2 immunity, providing a comprehensive understanding of its effects and guidance on its use.
Prevention of disuse osteoporosis in rats by Cordyceps sinensis extract.
The study investigated the effects of Cordyceps sinensis on disuse-induced osteoporosis in hind limb suspension rats. Higher doses of C. sinensis (300 and 500 mg/kg/day) prevented bone loss and improved bone microarchitecture, suggesting its potential as an alternative therapy for osteoporosis prevention.
Antifungal and Anticancer Activities of a Protein from the Mushroom Cordyceps militaris.
The study purified a cytotoxic antifungal protease from Cordyceps militaris, showing strong antifungal effects against Fusarium oxysporum and cytotoxicity against human breast and bladder cancer cells. This suggests potential biological and medicinal applications.
The genus Cordyceps: An extensive review of its traditional uses, phytochemistry and pharmacology.
This review compiles literature on the ethno-medicinal, phytochemistry, and pharmacological properties of species in the genus Cordyceps. It highlights Cordyceps sinensis as the most frequently used species and discusses various bioactive compounds with potential therapeutic activities.
Bioactive principles from Cordyceps sinensis: A potent food supplement – A review
The review discusses the importance of Cordyceps sinensis, including its economic value, artificial cultivation methods, chemical characterization, potential health benefits, and mechanisms of action. It also explores the possible applications of the fungus or its extracts in food and pharmaceutical industries.
Inhibitory effect of Cordyceps sinensis on spontaneous liver metastasis of Lewis lung carcinoma and B16 melanoma cells in syngeneic mice.
The study investigated the effect of water extract of Cordyceps sinensis (WECS) on liver metastasis of Lewis lung carcinoma and B16 melanoma cells in mice. WECS administration reduced relative liver weight in tumor-inoculated mice, suggesting anti-metastatic activity.
Effects of the mycelial extract of cultured Cordyceps sinensis on in vivo hepatic energy metabolism in the mouse.
Mice were given an extract of cultured Cordyceps sinensis (200 mg/kg daily) for 3 weeks. The study observed a consistent increase in the ATP/inorganic phosphate ratio, indicating a high energy state in the Cs extract-treated mice. No liver damage was observed.