Pneumonia is a respiratory health problem involving lung infection. Pneumonia is a serious health problem and can lead to dire health consequences in children, elderly individuals and people who have compromised immune systems. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that pneumonia accounts for more than 50,000 deaths each year in the United States. Certain herbal remedies, such as cordyceps, may be helpful in treating your pneumonia. However, ask your doctor about the safety and efficacy of herbs before using them for this health purpose.
Pneumonia
Pneumonia may be caused by several pathogens, including viruses and bacteria. According to the Anne Arundel Medical Center, about 50 percent of pneumonia cases may be caused by viruses. Pneumonia caused by viruses is often less severe than pneumonia caused by bacterial infection. Common signs and symptoms associated with pneumonia include cough, fever, chills, shortness of breath, headache, reduced appetite, chest pain or discomfort and severe sweating. Some people with this health problem may also experience confusion.
About Cordyceps
Cordyceps, also known as caterpillar fungus or deer fungus, is an herbal remedy that has long been used by practitioners of traditional Chinese medicine and traditional Tibetan medicine. Cordyceps is a fungi, medicinal mushroom and parasitic organism that grows on insects such as caterpillars in Nepal, China and Tibet. Cordyceps contains numerous important active constituents, including polysaccharides, cordycepin, sterols, alkenoic acids and an antibiotic compound known as ophiocordin. Though there are many species of cordyceps, Cordyceps sinensis may be the most well-known and most commonly used.
Cordyceps Uses
Cordyceps may be a helpful herbal remedy in treating your pneumonia. Dr. Alan R. Gaby, a medical doctor and author of "The Natural Pharmacy," states that cordyceps has historically been used in treating low immune function and that it may help strengthen your body and immune response after prolonged illness or exhaustion. To help restore proper immune function and combat your pneumonia, Gaby recommends taking 3 to 9 g of this herb two times per day as a liquid extract. Discuss dosage with your doctor before using this herb. More scientific research evidence may be needed to evaluate the true health effects of cordyceps.
Warning
Pneumonia, if it is not treated in a timely and appropriate manner, can lead to several serious health complications, including lung abscesses, respiratory failure, acute respiratory distress syndrome and sepsis. If you develop the signs and symptoms of pneumonia, do not delay seeking treatment from your primary care provider. Your family physician can counsel you on the merits, drawbacks, limitations and potential drug interactions associated with herbal remedies and provide you with an individualized treatment plan to help resolve your health complaint.
References
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Pneumonia
- Anne Arundel Medical Center: Pneumonia
- "The Natural Pharmacy"; Alan R. Gaby, M.D.; 2006
