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TCM

Cordyceps

Cordyceps sinensis/militaris (Dong Chong Xia Cao)

Tradition of Use: TCM, Tibetan traditional

Mechanism of Action

Increases ATP production, adaptogenic, immunomodulation, bronchodilation

Key Conditions & Uses

Fatigue
athletic performance
lung disease
kidney disease
libido
immune support

Preparation

Capsule, powder, decoction, tincture

Dosage

1-3g extract or 3-9g dried mushroom daily

Active Compounds

Cordycepin, polysaccharides, adenosine, ergosterol

Interactions

May interact with immunosuppressants, anticoagulants, diabetes medications

Contraindications

Autoimmune disorders; bleeding disorders; surgery

Evidence Level & Clinical Notes

Evidence Level:

Moderate - promising evidence for energy and performance

Clinical Notes:

Caterpillar fungus; very expensive (wild); cultivated C. militaris more available

Traditional Chinese Medicine Context

Dong Chong Xia Cao

Rebuilds energy reserves depleted by chronic infection and supports deep immune function

Pattern:Toxic Heat with Qi and Blood Deficiency

Dong Chong Xia Cao

Deeply restores energy at the cellular level and improves stamina

Pattern:Spleen and Kidney Yang Deficiency with Blood Stasis

Dong Chong Xia Cao

Restores energy depleted by chronic mold toxicity and inflammation

Pattern:Damp Phlegm with Toxic Heat and Qi Deficiency

Dong Chong Xia Cao

Strengthens kidney essence which governs reproductive health and fertility

Pattern:Kidney Essence Deficiency with Blood Deficiency

Dong Chong Xia Cao

Rebuilds energy depleted by chronic parasitic infection

Pattern:Toxic Heat with Qi and Blood Deficiency

Dong Chong Xia Cao

Supports lung health and energy during cancer treatment

Pattern:Lung Qi Deficiency with Phlegm and Toxin

Dong Chong Xia Cao

Supports kidney health and slows disease progression

Pattern:Kidney Yin and Yang Deficiency with Dampness

Dong Chong Xia Cao

Rebuilds energy and lung function after COVID infection

Pattern:Qi and Yin Deficiency with Residual Heat

Dong Chong Xia Cao

Strengthens lung function and improves breathing capacity

Pattern:Lung and Kidney Qi Deficiency with Phlegm

Quick Overview

TraditionTCM
GBS Score79/100
Key Uses6

Key Points

Evidence-based information
Traditional wisdom
Safety information
Clinical applications
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