Cordyceps
Parasitic fungus with significant evidence for fatigue reduction, VO2max improvement, and immune modulation. Cordycepin and adenosine as key bioactives.
How it works (mechanism of action)
Acts on cellular signalling pathways relevant to the documented clinical indications. Contains bioactive compounds with enzyme-modulating, receptor-binding, or antioxidant properties studied in peer-reviewed literature.
Evidence grades: A=Strong RCT evidence · B=Good clinical trials · C=Limited trials · D=Preliminary/traditional
Autoimmune: immunostimulant — caution in RA, lupus, MS. Drug interactions: anticoagulants, cyclosporine, prednisolone (potential interference with immunosuppression). Platelet aggregation inhibition. Pregnancy: insufficient data. Blood glucose lowering: monitor in diabetes.