Cordyceps and Asthma (What Resarch Says + Anti-Inflammatory Effects)

Asthma is a chronic condition that makes breathing difficult, often caused by inflammation and airway constriction. Recent studies suggest cordyceps, a medicinal mushroom, may offer relief. The unique properties of cordyceps make it a potential game-changer for managing asthma symptoms.

Here’s everything you need to know about cordyceps and asthma.

• Cordyceps reduces inflammation and enhances lung function, helping asthma sufferers breathe easier.

• Its immune-balancing effects may lower the frequency of asthma attacks.

• Cordyceps acts as a natural bronchodilator to improve airflow during mild symptoms.

Cordyceps mushrooms have long been used in traditional medicine to boost energy and performance , enhance immune function , and improve respiratory health . They are packed with bioactive compounds like cordycepin and polysaccharides, which have anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating effects.

In fact, research supports a variety of common uses for Cordyceps, including improving symptoms of cough, bronchitis, anemia, high cholesterol, arrhythmias, general frailty, and various lung and kidney issues.

When inflammation in the airways is reduced, asthma symptoms often improve. That’s where Cordyceps shines.

Asthma is a chronic condition characterized by airway inflammation, oxidative stress, and immune system overactivity. Cordyceps, a medicinal mushroom, has shown promise in managing these issues, offering potential relief when used alongside conventional treatments.

Research indicates that Cordyceps Sinensis may reduce inflammatory biomarkers and support respiratory health, making it a valuable complement for conditions like bronchitis and asthma. While more studies are needed to confirm these effects in humans, early findings are encouraging.

Here are 5 ways that cordyceps can help improve asthma symptoms:

Inflammation is a leading cause of asthma attacks. Cordyceps contains anti-inflammatory compounds , including cordycepin, which target this issue.

• How It Works:

  • Cordycepin suppresses pro-inflammatory cytokines, reducing swelling in the airways.

  • This helps open up the airways, making breathing easier.

Regular use of cordyceps may lower inflammation and reduce the frequency and severity of asthma attacks.

Asthma often limits the body's ability to take in and use oxygen effectively. Cordyceps is renowned for enhancing oxygen uptake and utilization, which is crucial for asthma sufferers.

• Research Highlights:

  • Studies show that cordyceps can improve maximal oxygen uptake (VO2 max) within three weeks.

  • It boosts adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production , providing energy to muscles and supporting better respiratory performance.

These benefits can improve stamina and ease breathing, especially for those with exercise-induced asthma.

Asthma is closely linked to an overactive immune system that often reacts excessively to allergens. Cordyceps helps to modulate the immune response , preventing it from becoming overly reactive.

• How It Helps:

  • Balances immune cells to reduce hypersensitivity.

  • Supports a stable response to common triggers like dust or pollen.

By promoting immune balance, cordyceps may reduce the likelihood of asthma attacks triggered by allergens.

Cordyceps exhibits a natural bronchodilating effect , relaxing the muscles around the airways to improve airflow.

• Scientific Insights:

  • It relaxes smooth muscle tissue in the respiratory tract.

  • This widens airways, reducing wheezing and allowing more air to flow through.

For those with mild asthma symptoms, cordyceps can provide quick relief similar to that of a bronchodilator.

Cordyceps has long been used in traditional medicine as a lung tonic. Modern studies support its ability to improve lung capacity and respiratory efficiency over time.

• Key Benefits:

  • Strengthens lung tissue and enhances overall function.

  • Reduces fatigue during high-intensity activities by improving oxygen efficiency.

For individuals with chronic asthma, these benefits may translate to fewer symptoms and a better quality of life.

Cordyceps mushrooms not only help reduce inflammation but also combat oxidative stress, a major factor in asthma. Studies have shown that it can:

• Lower inflammatory biomarkers and reduce airway inflammation .

• Combating oxidative stress by acting as an antioxidant

• Improve symptoms and reduce the frequency of asthma attacks.

• Enhance endurance and oxygen uptake, delaying fatigue during physical activity.

A study on a mushroom blend containing cordyceps found significant improvements in oxygen levels, demonstrating its potential as a supportive therapy for lung conditions.

While these findings are promising, it’s important to pair cordyceps with conventional treatments for the best results.

Cordyceps mushrooms are a promising natural remedy for enhancing lung function and reducing inflammation, making them a valuable addition for managing asthma. Here’s how to use them effectively:

Look for supplements made from Cordyceps sinensis or Cordyceps militaris, the most studied species for respiratory health.

Choose products that are third-party tested, free of fillers, and from reputable brands. When it comes to mushrooms supplements, you should choose single-extracted products made from 100% fruiting bodies, not mycelium. The best mushroom supplements ensure a beta-glucan content of at least 20%.

Dosage can vary, but general guidelines include:

• 1-3 grams daily for asthma and lung health.

• Up to 4 grams daily for chronic or severe respiratory conditions.

Begin with a lower dose and increase gradually based on your body’s response. Read "Cordyceps Dosage" to learn more. 

Cordyceps works best with regular use over time. Take cordyceps every day, ideally in the morning or early afternoon. Many users notice benefits within 2–6 weeks of consistent use.

Cordyceps works well with other natural nootropic and adaptogenic supplements for enhanced results:

• Lion’s Mane for cognitive and immune support.

• Reishi to reduce stress and inflammation.

• Astragalus to boost lung function and immunity.

• Ginkgo Biloba to improves circulation and oxygen delivery to tissues.

• Rhodiola Rosea to support energy and stamina, improve oxygen utilization, and reduce fatigue.

Maximize the benefits of cordyceps by pairing it with a healthy lifestyle:

• Eat an anti-inflammatory diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3s.

• Practice breathing exercises to improve lung capacity.

• Stay active with light exercise like walking or yoga.

Speak with a healthcare provider before starting cordyceps, especially if you have severe asthma or take medications or are pregnant or breastfeeding.

By following these steps, you can safely and effectively use cordyceps to support your lung health and reduce asthma symptoms.

Cordyceps is generally safe for most people when used as directed. However, some individuals may experience mild side effects, such as:

• Upset stomach or digestive discomfort.

• Dry mouth.

• Allergic reactions in rare cases.

• Drug interactions.

If you notice any adverse effects, stop use and consult a healthcare provider. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid cordyceps unless directed by a doctor.

The connection between cordyceps and asthma is backed by both science and tradition. This powerful mushroom reduces inflammation, supports lung health, and balances the immune system—all critical for managing asthma symptoms.

For those seeking a natural way to breathe easier, cordyceps might be worth exploring.

Yes, cordyceps is considered beneficial for lung health. It improves oxygen utilization, reduces airway inflammation, and strengthens respiratory function, making it a helpful supplement for people with asthma or other breathing conditions.

People with autoimmune disorders, such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis, should avoid cordyceps as it may stimulate the immune system. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should also consult a doctor before use.

Cordyceps is not known to be high in histamine, but its immune-modulating properties may help reduce histamine-related reactions, such as those caused by allergies or asthma.

Yes, cordyceps may help manage allergies. It modulates the immune system, reducing the overactive response to allergens that can lead to symptoms like sneezing, congestion, or asthma attacks.

Cordyceps is generally safe, but some people may experience mild side effects like digestive upset or dry mouth. Additionally, it might interact with certain medications, such as immunosuppressants, so consulting a healthcare provider is essential.

Cordyceps supports brain health by enhancing oxygen delivery and acting as a natural nootropic. It may improve focus, memory, and mental clarity while also protecting the brain from oxidative stress.

1. “Effects of a Commercial Supplement of Ophiocordyceps sinensis and Ganoderma lucidum on Physiological Responses to Maximal Exercise in Healthy Young Participants” https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29953396/

2. “Herbal Medicine Cordyceps sinensis Improves Health-Related Quality of Life in Moderate-to-Severe Asthma” https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5165155/

3. “Antioxidant activity of the extracts from fruiting bodies of cultured Cordyceps sinensis” https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11114006/

4. “Cordyceps Improves Respiratory Health” https://brioclinic.com/blogs/products/14445797-cordyceps-improves-respiratory-health

5. “Cordyceps spp.: A Review on Its Immune-Stimulatory and Other Biological Potentials” https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7898063/

6. “Effect of Polysaccharide from Cordyceps militaris (Ascomycetes) on Physical Fatigue Induced by Forced Swimming” https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28094746/

7. “Chronic supplementation of a mushroom blend on oxygen kinetics, peak power, and time to exhaustion” https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4594151/

8. “Cordyceps as an Herbal Drug” https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK92758/

9. “Protective roles of Cordyceps on lung fibrosis in cellular and rat models” https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378874112004333

10. “Beneficial Effect of Cordyceps militaris on Exercise Performance via Promoting Cellular Energy Production” https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33312018/