Cordyceps is a fungus that, like many other functional mushrooms, has been gaining popularity as a traditional medicine. It’s a substance that has long been used in alternative medicine, such as lion’s mane and reishi, to improve everything from chronic respiratory problems to organ diseases and even low sex drive.
However, few people seem to be concerned about the possible drawbacks or cordyceps side effects. What are the long-term consequences of a daily dose of Cordyceps? And, while they seem to be safe for regular use, what unknown risks might they pose?
Potential Cordyceps Dangers and Side Effects
1. Hypoglycemia
A study published in The National Center for Biotechnology Information found that Cordyceps side effects reduced blood-glucose levels in rats with high-fat diet-induced diabetes.
The study’s positive outcome is that it shows a potential natural cure for diabetes and a probable weight reduction benefits to Cordyceps that warrant further study in the future.
However, if diabetics are already on medications to lower blood sugar levels and take Cordyceps, they can run the risk of hypoglycemia (extremely low blood sugar). This can cause a number of symptoms, including dizziness, heart palpitations, and worry. So it’s worth discussing with your doctor if you’re in this situation and want to take cordyceps.
2. Decrease in Blood Clotting?
The antiplatelet effect of these mushrooms has been shown in studies to be comparable to the antiplatelet effects of certain medications. In other words, cordyceps may make your blood less capable of clotting. This may be useful for people who are at risk of acute pulmonary embolisms (blood clots and blockages in the arteries of the lungs) and other clotting-related diseases including heart attacks, but it might be hazardous for individuals who take blood-thinning drugs.
Blood-thinners and Cordyceps may cause more bruising and bleeding when used together.
3. Gastrointestinal Problems?
Although this side effect is uncommon, gastrointestinal troubles are the most common adverse effect of Cordyceps. Nausea, vomiting, and an upset stomach are all possible Cordyceps side effects, according to reports. But this is extremely rare.
4. Cancer Precursors?
Cordycepin is a natural product discovered from the fungus Cordyceps militaris, which has anti-tumor properties and may boost the effectiveness of cancer therapies. Experts, on the other hand, advise against utilizing this fungus to combat one type of cancer: myelogenous leukemia.
This sort of cancer is rare and starts in the bone marrow, which is where stem cells and precursor cells are produced. In a nutshell, it’s caused by an aberrant chromosome that causes the overproduction of white blood cells and subsequently their refusal to die as they should. This results in the formation of cancerous cells, which can damage the bone marrow.
In one experiment, cordyceps has been linked to the development of progenitor cells, raising the possibility that it might enhance myeloid leukemic cell response and growth.
5. Auto-Immune Disease?
Cordyceps is said to have immuno-stimulatory effects, like many medicinal mushrooms. This is a big advantage in most situations, but it can also be hazardous for those who have autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and lupus.
An overactive immune system that cannot distinguish normal cells from harmful ones is known as an autoimmune disease. The immune cells in the case of RA assault the healthy tissue inside the joints. Cordyceps can stimulate the immune system, making it hazardous when taken with an autoimmune illness. Although this may not be the case in all circumstances, so you should discuss your specific situation with your doctor if you would like to try cordyceps.
So Is Cordyceps Safe for Human Consumption?
Although this article may be intimidating, all of the listed symptoms are extreme examples of unusual and severe circumstances. In fact, it is considered and accepted that Cordyceps fruiting bodies, dried extracts, and tinctures are safe to consume every day. Furthermore, the benefits appear to greatly outweigh any potential drawbacks.
Sleep difficulties aren’t a typical adverse cordyceps side effect, and they won’t cause anxiety.
If you have any questions, please see your doctor first. It is unlikely to be harmful in the average person as long as you are not one of the people that is particularly susceptible to Cordyceps’ side effects.
Who should not take Cordyceps?
As a result of the aforementioned criteria, those who should be very cautious in taking a Cordyceps supplement include those that:
- Are on medications that reduce blood sugar levels.
- Take any blood thinners.
- Having any surgical procedure.
- Have mushroom or mold allergies.
- Have myelogenous cancers.
- Anyone with autoimmune diseases.
Can You Take Too Much Cordyceps Mushroom?
There are no severe side effects from taking high doses of cordyceps. You might have minor digestive issues like constipation, diarrhea, or discomfort in your stomach, but these side effects should go away in one or two days.
Is Cordyceps Mushroom Safe Long Term?
Yes, you can take cordyceps for as long as you like. By taking cordyceps for the long haul, you will reap the benefits that the mushroom provides to your kidneys (cordyceps sinensis may prove to be quite helpful to patients who have had a kidney transplant) and you will also benefit from its anti-cancer properties.
Is Cordyceps Safe for Pets?
Cordyceps is safe for humans and animals alike.
Additional Resources:
Are Cordyceps Good for Your Adrenals?
You can find our favorite capsules, powders, and tincture’s on the following pages of our website and learn more about each individually:
Best Cordyceps Mushroom Gummies
Updated 10/13/2022
