Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition characterized by inflammation of the lungs and airways. Characterized by wheezing, coughing and breathing difficulties, asthma affects 20 million Americans, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Treatment comprises anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce airway inflammation and bronchodilators to help the airways to relax, making it easier to breath. The herb known as cordyceps is also sometimes used as an alternative remedy for asthma although there is little evidence to prove it works. Do not use cordyceps in place of asthma medicines and talk to your doctor before using it.
Properties and Potential Benefits
Cordyceps is a fungus that grows on the larvae of the Chinese caterpillar known as Hepialus armoricanus Oberthuer. It is used as an alternative remedy for a variety of medical ailments including high cholesterol and fatigue. It is also used to treat respiratory conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and, according to Drugs.com, may work by improving the body's utilization of oxygen.
Administration
Cordyceps is supplied in capsules or tablets and is available from herbalists and health food stores. Guidance regarding a suitable dose for the treatment of asthma is lacking. However, Mississippi Baptist Health Systems states that traditional recommended doses of cordyceps range between 5 g to 10 g daily. This is only intended as a guideline. Check with your doctor whether this dosage is suitable for you.
Effectiveness
Clinical studies evaluating the effectiveness of cordyceps as an asthma treatment are lacking so it difficult to know for certain whether it can help alleviate asthma symptoms.The results of a study published in the September 2010 issue of the "International Journal of Molecular Medicine" show that cordyceps inhibits immune responses associated with asthma and hinders the production of inflammatory chemicals. However, the study was carried out in an animal model, not in humans. Randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trials are needed to confirm these effects in humans.
Safety Considerations
Mississippi Baptist Health Systems states cordyceps has not been associated with any apparent side effects, but adds that safety studies are lacking. Do not use cordyceps if you are pregnant or breastfeeding or if you have kidney or liver disease. Keep in mind that cordyceps might heighten the effects of diabetes drugs so get medical clearance before using this herb if you have diabetes. If you experience any unusual or ill effects while using this herb, discontinue use and see your doctor.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Asthma
- Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center: Cordyceps
- Drugs.com: Cordyceps
- Mississippi Baptist Health Systems: Cordyceps
- "International Journal of Molecular Medicine"; Anti-Asthmatic activities in mycelial Extract and Culture Filtrate of Cordyceps Sphecocephala J201; J.C. Heo, et al.; September 2010
