Cordyceps Side Effects, Potential Health Benefits & How Quality Impacts Risk

Although Cordyceps has been used for centuries, its recent surge in popularity comes from modern research into its potential benefits for brain health, muscle growth, and more. Cordyceps is a fungus you’ll find in many supplements, including nootropic and adaptogenic blends aimed at boosting vitality.

What are Cordyceps side effects?

While many people use Cordyceps safely, potential side effects include Cordyceps allergy or allergic reactions, stomach pain, and interactions with medications.

Some users report mild digestive issues, while others may experience a more severe Cordyceps allergic reaction. It's also important to consider the potential dangers of this mushroom, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or take medication.

Curious about how Cordyceps mushroom side effects might affect you, or whether Cordyceps interacts with any medications? Read on for a more detailed breakdown.

• Cordyceps side effects are rare and almost always mild.
• You may be at a higher risk for side effects if you have a mushroom allergy or take certain medications, or have a bleeding disorder, blood sugar issues, heart problems, or other life-threatening conditions.
• Most people can take it without any complications, but you need to choose a high-quality Cordyceps supplement.

Cordyceps is best known for its ability to enhance endurance exercise performance , energy, and stamina. Studies suggest it may improve the body’s use of oxygen and boost ATP production, supporting longer and more efficient workouts.

Beyond athletic performance, the potential health benefits of Cordyceps include:

• Improved immune response through its beta-glucan polysaccharides

• Increased libido and testosterone levels

• Anti-aging and antioxidant support

• Better brain function and memory

• Blood sugar regulation for metabolic support

Thanks to its adaptogenic and nootropic effects, Cordyceps is commonly used to promote physical and mental vitality. However, benefits can vary depending on supplement quality and dosage.

Cordyceps is generally considered safe for most people who do not have a Cordyceps mushroom allergy.

Like many mushrooms, it is primarily composed of carbohydrates and fiber, but it also contains bioactive compounds such as mushroom polysaccharides and cordycepin, which contribute to its therapeutic effects. However, these compounds, originating from the fungus's spores, may trigger an adverse allergic reaction in sensitive individuals or those with a Cordyceps allergy.

In some cases, these effects may conflict with certain health conditions or interact with medications, potentially causing unwanted side effects. Additionally, certain minerals and fibers in it may lead to stomach pain or digestive discomfort.

Though the side effects of Cordyceps are rare and not well-studied, it's important to be aware of the potential dangers of Cordyceps before incorporating it into your routine. Different types of cordyceps may produce different therapeutic effects and side effects.

If you're concerned about side effects or wonder, "Does Cordyceps interact with any medications?", it's advisable to consult a healthcare professional before use and seek medical advice.

Mushroom supplement side effects may vary depending on the type of mushroom supplement you choose. For instance, a cordyceps powder, capsules, or extract may have varying levels of bioactive material and may produce very different results.

However, the effects are similar between different types of cordyceps, and both cordyceps sinensis and cordyceps militaris are generally considered safe for supplemental use when used correctly.

Based on anecdotal reports and what we know about medicinal mushrooms, Cordyceps side effects may include:

In rare cases, some consumers have reported feeling nauseous after using Cordyceps mushrooms.

Cordyceps mushrooms contain fiber that may be upsetting for some people’s digestive systems. Symptoms like upset stomach, diarrhea, nausea, or gas could be a sign of an allergic reaction, but it could also mean you’ve taken too much and should reduce your dosage.

Although it is rare, some people experience a mushroom allergy. Symptoms of an allergic reaction to Cordyceps mushrooms may include:

• Swelling of the lips, mouth, and airways
• Difficulty breathing
• Skin rashes or hives
• Runny nose
• Watery eyes
• Nausea and vomiting
• Stomach cramping
• Bloating
• Loose stools

In some cases, medicinal mushrooms like Cordyceps may interact with certain OTC and prescription medications, which could reduce their efficiency. We'll discuss this more below.

Evidence concerning drug interactions with Cordyceps is still scarce, but we can draw some conclusions based on how other mushroom supplements interact with certain medications and how Cordyceps affects the body.

You may be able to take Cordyceps alongside certain medications with a doctor's guidance and adjusted dosage. You should always talk to your doctor before taking it if you take one of the following types of medications:

Research suggests that Cordyceps may help to boost immune function. While this is a desired effect for most people, it could be a major drawback for people taking immunosuppressants, such as those who have recently undergone a transplant.

Cordyceps mushrooms are known to have certain effects on circulation, including vasorelaxant effects that may help to lower blood pressure and improve blood flow. Because of this, they may interact with blood-thinning medications. Combining Cordyceps with a blood thinner could potentially increase your risk of bleeding.

Some evidence suggests that Cordyceps mushrooms may help to lower blood sugar levels. This could be problematic for those already taking medications to manage their blood sugar, such as those with type 2 diabetes.

It may also interact with antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, thyroid medications and blood pressure medications.

Additionally, if you have hepatitis or any other liver condition, it's crucial to consult your health care provider before considering Cordyceps due to potential interactions.

You should also consult your doctor regarding possible drug interactions if you take any of these specific medications or supplements:

• Amikacin
• Cyclosporine
• Danshen
• Devil's claw
• Gentamicin
• Isocarboxazid
• Kanamycin
• Linezolid
• neomycin PO
• Netilmicin
• Paromomycin
• Phenelzine
• Prednisolone
• Streptomycin
• Tobramycin
• Tranylcypromine

Nope! Cordyceps does not possess any properties that may make it addictive. There is little to no potential for substance abuse for Cordyceps mushrooms.

Aside from potential drug interactions, the most common cause of Cordyceps side effects is incorrect dosage. People commonly take doses between 0.5 g and 3 g daily, although this dosage will vary greatly depending on whether you're using a whole mushroom powder or extract.

Either way, if you experience adverse reactions, especially nausea or vomiting, you may need to decrease your dosage. Stop taking Cordyceps and talk to your doctor to figure out a dosing routine that works for you.

To learn more, read "Cordyceps Dosage" or "When's the Best Time to Take Cordyceps?"

Cordyceps is generally well-tolerated, but some people may experience mild side effects like dry mouth , stomach upset , or diarrhea . Rarely, it may cause nausea or dizziness . If you experience any adverse effects, it’s best to reduce the dosage or consult a healthcare provider.

People with autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis , lupus , or rheumatoid arthritis should avoid this mushroom, as it can stimulate the immune system. Those taking blood-thinning medications or undergoing surgery should be cautious, as Cordyceps could affect blood clotting . It may also lower your blood sugar levels.

Yes, Cordyceps is generally safe for daily use in moderate doses. Many people take it daily for its energy-boosting and immune-enhancing health benefits. However, it’s recommended to follow dosage guidelines and consult with a healthcare professional, especially for long-term use.

Cordyceps is considered beneficial for kidney health and is often used in traditional Chinese medicine to support kidney function. However, individuals with pre-existing kidney conditions should consult a healthcare provider before using Cordyceps to avoid any potential complications.

Cordyceps is not known to raise blood pressure. In fact, some studies suggest that it may help lower blood pressure by improving circulation and promoting vascular health . However, people with blood pressure concerns should monitor their levels and speak with a doctor.

Cordyceps may have liver-protective properties and is often used to support liver health in traditional medicine. Some studies suggest Cordyceps improves liver function during a hepatitis B infection. There’s no significant evidence that it harms the liver when taken in appropriate doses, but individuals with liver conditions should consult a healthcare provider before use.

1. "Cordyceps as an Herbal Drug" https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK92758/