Agaricus Blazei Murrill Mushroom Extract

Agaricus is the most widely consumed mushroom in many countries, where it is regarded as a health food, due to its medicinal properties.

Agaricus is traditionally known as "God's Mushroom" because of its near

miraculous curative benefits to a wide range of disorders. People have used it

to overcome numerous diseases and disorders relating to the immune system,

cardiovascular system, digestion, and for weight management, diabetes,

chronic and acute allergies, cataracts, hearing difficulties, stress syndrome,

chronic fatigue, diarrhea, constipation, and disorders of the liver.

A few decades ago, researchers noticed that in the mountain region of Ideate near Sao Paulo, Brazil , a regular

part of the local inhabitants' diet was a mushroom known as "Cogmelo de Deus" or "Mushroom of God". The

researchers also noted that the local inhabitants were extraordinarily healthy and had a very low incidence of

disease, which they attributed to this magical mushroom.

The scientific name of the mushroom is Agaricus Blazei Murrill, more commonly called the ABM mushroom and

sometimes referred to as Agaricus Brasiliennis. So potent is this mushroom that one well-known rainforest herbal

manufacturer, uses it as the main ingredients in herbal supplements that have been credited with success against

cancer and other diseases around the world.

In a study conducted by Dr. Shoji Shibata, a professor at Tokyo University , several other well known cancer-

fighting and immune-boosting mushrooms were compared to the ABM, including Reishi and Shitake. Dr. Shibata's

results found that the other mushrooms were not as effective as the ABM mushroom, and so the ABM was ranked

at the top of the list of potent mushrooms - a spot befitting the "Mushroom of God"! Other Japanese and British

studies have also shown the ABM mushroom to have the highest concentration of beta-glucan of any mushroom.

Contains Beta-(1-3)-D-glucan, Beta-(1-4)-a -D-glucan & Beta - (1-6)-D-glucan. Known collectively as Beta-

glucans, these long-chain polysaccharides are the most potent immuno-potentiating (immune enhancing)

substances yet found. They also have very powerful anti-tumor properties. When human subjects are given AMB

in their diet, a 3000% increase of NK cells, a type of anti-tumor white blood cell known as Natural Killer cells, is

seen in the blood within 2-4 days.

In addition to beta glucans, agaricus also contains derivatives of ergosterol, a potent anti-tumor agent; double

stranded RNA, an anti-viral agent; proteoglucans and protein bound polysaccharides of low molecular weight,

which are immune enhancers; and, protein bound polysaccharides of high molecular weight, vitamins B1 and B2,

proteins in the form of amino acids, niacin, iron, and calcium.

There are many verified reports from around the world of this mushroom being used successfully in late stage

cancers that had been determined hopeless and some clinics in Europe base their entire treatment protocols on

agaricus blazei murrill mushroom extracts and other complimentary botanicals. In fact, in many published studies,

the rate of cure for all types of cancer has been in the high ninety percentile range, even for stage 4 lung cancer,

where many complete remissions are often seen in just a few weeks.

 

Coriolus Versicolor extract - from the Asian Turkey Tail mushroom.

Agaricus Mushroom

  

Contains polysaccharides [PSK] and polysaccharopeptides [PSP] effective for acute leukemia and stomach, esophagus, colorectal, lung cancer; PS is effective with many types of cancer (at least early and mid-stage cancer), including lung cancer and particularly stomach & colon cancer.

NCI reportedly stated that PSK has been "contemplated for use against...

mammary cancer, gastrointestinal cancers, such as those of the esophagus,

stomach, colon, lung and brain tumors" and that PSP "has...anti-tumor

activities, inhibiting Ehrlich ascites tumors, leukemia, and sarcoma, gastric

tumor, lymph, and monocytic leukemia". Good to take during chemo & radiation - including acute leukemia

patients)

 

Shitake Mushrooms

Shiitake (for centuries called "Elixir of Life" ) has been licensed as a anti-cancer drug by the Japanese FDA. Lentinan has shown some effect on bowel cancer, liver cancer, stomach cancer, ovarian cancer and lung cancer.

Lentinan stimulates the production of T lymphocytes and natural killer

cells and can potentiate the effect of AZT in the anti-viral treatment of

A.I.D.S. Shiitake is rich in several anti-oxidants (Selenium, Uric acid &

Vitamin A, E, & C) as well as Vitamin D.

Shiitake mushrooms may also lower blood pressure in those with hypertension, lower serum

cholesterol levels, increase libido, stimulate the production of Interferon which has anti-viral effects,

and has proven effective against Hepatitis in some cases.

The shiitake (Lentinula edodes) is an edible mushroom native to East Asia. It is generally known in the English-

speaking world by its Japanese name, shiitake. Shiitake are native to China but have been grown in both Japan

and China since prehistoric times. They have been cultivated for over 1000 years. Fresh and dried shiitake have

many uses in the cuisines of East Asia. In Chinese cuisine, they are often sauteed in vegetarian dishes such as

Buddha's delight. In Japan, they are served in miso soup, used as the basis for a kind of vegetarian dashi, and

also as an ingredient in many steamed and simmered dishes. (lowers cholesterol and improves immune system

function, good for preventing high blood pressure and heart disease, for controlling cholesterol level, building

resistance against viruses, and fighting diseases such as AIDS/HIV and cancers. Often available fresh, Shitake

mushrooms are very flavorful when used in cooking! If you cannot find fresh, available as a supplement also.)

 

Maitake Mushrooms

Maitake is also known by the name Dancing Mushroom, famous for its taste and health benefits. In Japan, Maitake Mushroom is called "King of Mushroom". The fruiting body and the mycelium of Maitake are used medicinally. In China and Japan, Maitake Mushrooms have been consumed for 3000 years.

Turkey Tail Mushroom

  

Shitake Mushroom

  

Maitake Mushroom

  

Years ago in Japan, the Maitake had monetary value and was worth its weight in silver. Historically,

Maitake has been used as a tonic and adaptogen. It was used as a food to help promote wellness and

vitality. Traditionally, consumption of the mushroom was thought to prevent high blood pressure and

cancer - two applications that have been the focal point of modern research.

Clinical research with Maitake Mushroom has increased dramatically in the past several years.

Laboratory studies have shown that Maitake Mushroom extract can inhibit the growth of tumors and

stimulate the immune system of cancerous mice.

Grifola frondosa, referring to a mythical griffin, commonly known as Sheep's Head, Ram's Head and Hen of the

Woods or Maitake, is an edible polypore mushroom.

It grows in clusters at the foot of trees, especially oak. The Japanese call it "maitake" (pronounced [maitake]),

literally meaning "dancing mushroom." The underground tubers from which hen of the woods arises has been

used in traditional Chinese and Japanese medicine to enhance the immune system.

Researchers have also indicated that whole maitake has the ability to regulate blood pressure, glucose, insulin,

and both serum and liver lipids, such as cholesterol, triglycerides, and phospholipids, and may also be useful for

weight loss. (high in nutrients including Vitamins B-2, C, D, niacin, magnesium, potassium, fiber, and amino acids,

contains the polysaccharide compound beta-1.6-glucan which naturally stimulates the immune system and lowers

blood pressure. Beneficial for obesity and diabetic patients, the Maitake mushroom may be best known for its

cancer fighting ability. Tests in mice prove that it blocks tumor formation and boosts the immune system.

Available fresh or as supplement).

 

Reishi Mushrooms

Reishi has been called an "immune potentiator." Recent studies have indicated that Reishi can have a number of other effects: Analgesic, Anti-inflammatory, Antioxidant, Antiviral through inducing interferon production, Lowers blood pressure, Cardiotonic action through lowering serum cholesterol, Expectorant & Antitussive, Liver (Hepatitis)-protecting and detoxifying, protection against ionizing radiation, Antibacterial, and Anti-HIV activity. Reishi contains calcium, iron and phosphorus as well as vitamins C, D, and B - including pantothenic acid, which is essential to nerve function and the adrenal glands.

The reishi mushroom is also known as Ling-Zhi in Chinese. They are an Asian form of Ganoderma

lucidum and a polypore mushroom which are categorized as tough and leathery. Physically, "reishi

mushrooms are large, very dark and woody-looking mushrooms. While most mushrooms are 90%

water, reishi mushrooms are 75% water." In order to consume them internally, they must be made into

a tea or an extract. (The Reishi mushroom can increase the production of interleukin1 and 2, resulting

in inhibition of tumor growth. Studies show that Reishi can have a number of other positive effects on

the body such as analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-viral (through its interferon production),

lowers blood pressure. It also acts as a cardiotonic by lowering serum and increasing the production of

interleukin 1 and 2, which results in inhibition of tumor cholesterol, expectorant, anti-tissue, liver

protecting and detoxifying, protection against ionizing radiation, antibacterial, and anti-HIV activity.

Available fresh or as supplement).

Reishi Mushroom

  

 

Cordyceps Ophioglossoides Mushroom

(Cordyceps, like many other medicinal mushrooms, contains complex sugars (especially beta 1,3 glucan) and other nutrients (nucleosides, triterpeniods) which seem to strongly nourish and activate various components of the immune system, useful in treating cancer, chronic fatigue and other immune disorders.

Cordyceps can be a powerful stimulant for macrophage activity, strengthening

your immune system's ability to fight against bacterial and viral infection.

Human clinical studies indicate that Cordyceps can be effective for treatment of high cholesterol, poor

libido/impotence, arrhythmia, lung cancer, and chronic kidney failure. It is also reported that Cordyceps causes

smooth muscle relaxation. This can make it especially helpful for treating chronic coughs, asthma, and other

bronchial conditions.

It also seems to have value in treating nephritis, may help the immune system recognize tumors that otherwise

might escape immune surveillance, and has positive effects on the cardiovascular and nervous systems, and an

anti-aging effect.)

 

Yun Zhi Mushroom

Yun-zhi, generally called "zhi" in ancient times, refers to a cloud-like mushroom with health-promoting qualities.

Yun Zhi, or the Cloud Mushroom, has been used to dispel dampness, reduce

phlegm, treat pulmonary infections, to strengthen the tendons and bones, for

vital energy, and to support liver health.

Researchers and traditional herbalists have discovered that polysaccharides in

Yunzhi mushroom possess broad immune stimulatory properties that helps to boster the body's defenses against

microbes and an array of cancers.

Benefits - Assists with immune function, high in vegetable proteins, promotes good health and vitality. Yunzhi

polysaccharides have been shown to maintain the immune system in a healthy condition, or boost an immune

system by increasing white blood cell count, the primary agents of the body responsible for fighting infection,

helping to reduce nausea and discomfort.

Conclusion

The world of natural health has an abundance of botanicals, vitamins, minerals and supplements to help fight

illness and boost the immune system. As you can see, the so-called "medicinal mushrooms" are important parts

of that world. Live long, live healthy, live happy!

Warning: It is extremely important that you research mushrooms thoroughly if you intend to harvest your own wild

mushrooms because many varieties are highly poisonous! It is advisable to purchase mushrooms from a

reputable grower or grocer rather than hunting them yourself.

Cordyceps Mushroom

  

YunZhi Mushroom

  

Read more: http://www.disabled-world.com/artman/publish/mushrooms.shtml#ixzz1NFZRyLL2

CordycepsFrom Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Jump to: navigation, search

Cordyceps

Cordyceps ophioglossoides

Scientific classification

Kingdom: Fungi

Subkingdom

:Dikarya

Phylum: Ascomycota

Subphylum: Pezizomycotina

Class: Sordariomycetes

Subclass:Hypocreomycetida

e

Order: Hypocreales

Family: Clavicipitaceae

Genus: Cordyceps

Species

C. bassiana (Bals.-Criv.)

C. gunnii

C. militaris

C. ophioglossoides

C. sinensis

C. subsessilis (Petch)

C. unilateralis

Cordyceps is a genus of ascomycete fungi (sac fungi) that includes about 400 described

species. All Cordyceps species are endoparasitoids, mainly on insects and other arthropods

(they are thus entomopathogenic fungi); a few are parasitic on other fungi. The best known

species of the genus is Cordyceps sinensis,[1] first recorded as yartsa gunbu in Tibet in the

15th Century.[2] It is known as yartsa gumba in Nepal. The Latin etymology describes cord as

club, ceps as head, and sinensis as Chinese. Cordyceps sinensis, known in English commonly

as caterpillar fungus, is considered a medicinal mushroom in oriental medicines, such as

Traditional Chinese medicines [3] and Traditional Tibetan medicine.

When a Cordyceps fungus attacks a host, the mycelium invades and eventually replaces the

host tissue, while the elongated fruiting body (stroma) may be cylindrical, branched, or of

complex shape. The stroma bears many small, flask-shaped perithecia contain the asci. These

in turn contain the thread-like ascospores, which usually break into fragments and are

presumably ineffective.

Some Cordyceps species are able to affect the behavior of their insect host: Cordyceps

unilateralis causes ants to climb a plant and attach there before they die. This ensures the

parasite's environment is at an optimal temperature and humidity and maximal distribution of

the spores from the fruiting body that sprouts out of the dead insect is achieved.[4] Marks have

been found on fossilised leaves which suggest this ability to modify the host's behaviour

evolved more than 48 million years ago.[5]

The genus has a worldwide distribution and most of the approximately 400 species[6] have

been described from Asia (notably Nepal, China, Japan, Korea and Thailand). Cordyceps

species are particularly abundant and diverse in humid temperate and tropical forests.

The genus has many anamorphs (asexual states), of which Beauveria (possibly including

Beauveria bassiana, Metarhizium, and Isaria) are the better known, since these have been

used in biological control of insect pests.

Some Cordyceps species are sources of biochemicals with interesting biological and

pharmacological properties,[7] like cordycepin; the anamorph of Cordyceps subsessilis

(Tolypocladium inflatum) was the source of ciclosporin—a drug helpful in human organ

transplants, as it suppresses the immune system (Immunosuppressive drug).[8]

Contents

[hide]

1 Medicinal importance 2 Ma Junren case 3 Value 4 Gallery 5 See also 6 References 7 Further reading 8 External links

[edit] Medicinal importance

Cordycepin, a compound isolated from the "Caterpillar fungus".

The Cordyceps mushrooms have a long history as medicinal fungi. In traditional Chinese

medicine, Cordyceps have been used to treat several conditions including cancers for

thousand of years. Extracts from both mycelium and fruiting bodies of C. sinensis, C. militaris

and other Cordyceps species showed significant anticancer activities by various mechanisms

such as, modulating immune system and inducing cell apoptosis. Some polysaccharide

components and cordycepin (3'-deoxyadenosine) have been isolated from C. sinensis and C.

militaris, which acted as potent anticancer components.[9]

Some work has been published in which Cordyceps sinensis has been used to protect the bone

marrow and digestive systems of mice from whole body irradiation.[10] An experiment noted

Cordyceps sinensis may protect the liver from damage.[11] An experiment with mice noted the

mushroom may have an anti-depressant effect.[12] Researchers have noted that Cordyceps has

a hypoglycemic effect and may be beneficial for people with insulin resistance.[13][14][15][16][17]

[edit] Ma Junren case

Ma Junren, the coach of a group of female Chinese athletes who broke five world records in

distance running in 1993 at the National Games in Beijing, China, told reporters that the

runners were taking Cordyceps at his request.[18]. The number of new world records being set

at a single track event caused much attention and suspicion of drug use, and the records are

still widely regarded as dubious, as the athletes failed to match these performances outside of

China at independently drug tested events.

[edit] Value

According to Daniel Winkler, the price of Cordyceps sinensis has risen dramatically on the

Tibetan Plateau, basically 900% between 1998 and 2008, an annual average of over 20%.

However, the value of big-sized caterpillar fungus has increased more dramatically than

smaller size Cordyceps, regarded as lower quality.[19]

Year % Price increase Price/kg (Yuan)

1980s 1,800

1997 467% (incl. inflation) 8,400

2004 429% (incl. inflation) 36,000

2005 10,000–60,000

According to Modern Marvels, a show on the History Channel, mushroom hunters in Nepal

can earn 900 dollars for an ounce of cordyceps.[1]

The high value of cordyceps was evidently the reason it was one of only two Chinese

traditional medicines to be stolen in a brazen theft in British Columbia. The stolen cordyceps

has been estimated to have been worth Can $38,000.[20]

[edit] Gallery

Cordyceps sinensis (caterpillar fungus), mostly whole dried choice specimens.

Cordyceps beginning its growth from an insect.

Cordyceps militaris

Cordyceps militaris

Cordyceps being weighed in at the market in China.

Chinese soup of silkie, seahorse and cordyceps.

[edit] See also

Fungi portal

Medicinal mushrooms Caterpillar fungus Yarchagumba (Caterpillar fungus, Tochukaso, Dong Chong Xia Cao) Cordyceps information from Drugs.com. Medicinal Mushrooms: Their Therapeutic Properties and Current Medical Usage with Special

Emphasis on Cancer Treatments by Cancer Research UK (the American equivalent to the US National Cancer Institute), 2001.[2]

[edit] References

1. ̂ Holliday, John; Cleaver, Matt; (2008). "Medicinal Value of the Caterpillar Fungi Species of the Genus Cordyceps (Fr.) Link (Ascomycetes). A Review" (PDF). International Journal of Medicinal Mushrooms (New York: Begell House) 10 (3): 219. doi:10.1615/IntJMedMushr.v10.i3.30. ISSN 1521-9437. http://www.alohamedicinals.com/cordycepsIJM1003.pdf.

2. ̂ Winkler, D. 2008a. Yartsa Gunbu (Cordyceps sinensis) and the Fungal Commodification of the Rural Economy in Tibet AR. Economic Botany 63.2: 291–306

3. ̂ Halpern, Georges M. (2007). Healing Mushrooms. Square One Publishers. pp. 65–86. ISBN 978-0-7570-0196-3. http://www.alohamedicinals.com/HealingMush_Private_10-18-06.pdf.

4. ̂ "Neurophilosophy: Brainwashed by a parasite". 2006-11-20. http://neurophilosophy.wordpress.com/2006/11/20/brainwashed-by-a-parasite/. Retrieved 2008-07-02.

5. ̂ Hughes, D. P.; Wappler, T.; Labandeira, C. C. (2010). "Ancient death-grip leaf scars reveal ant-fungal parasitism". Biology Letters 7 (1): 67–70. doi:10.1098/rsbl.2010.0521. PMID 20719770. edit

6. ̂ Sung, Gi-Ho; Nigel L. Hywel-Jones, Jae-Mo Sung, J. Jennifer Luangsa-ard, Bhushan Shrestha and Joseph W. Spatafora (2007). "Phylogenetic classification of Cordyceps and the clavicipitaceous fungi". Stud Mycol 57 (1): 5–59. doi:10.3114/sim.2007.57.01. PMC 2104736. PMID 18490993. http://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/articlerender.fcgi?tool=pmcentrez&artid=2104736.

7. ̂ Holliday, John; Cleaver, Phillip; Lomis-Powers, Megan; Patel, Dinesh; (2004). "Analysis of Quality and Techniques for Hybridization of Medicinal Fungus Cordyceps sinensis (Berk.)Sacc. (Ascomycetes)" (PDF). International Journal of Medicinal Mushrooms (New York: Begell House) 6 (2): 152. ISSN 1521-9437. http://www.alohamedicinals.com/cordy_IJMM_hybrid_article.pdf.

8. ̂ Holliday, John (2005). "Cordyceps". In Coates, Paul M. (PDF). Encyclopedia of Dietary Supplements. 1. Marcel Dekker. pp. 4 of Cordyceps Chapter. http://www.alohamedicinals.com/cordyceps.pdf.

9. ̂ Khan MA, Tania M, Zhang D, Chen H (May 2010). "Cordyceps Mushroom: A Potent Anticancer Nutraceutical". The Open Nutraceuticals Journal 3: 179–183. http://www.bentham.org/open/tonutraj/articles/V003/179TONUTRAJ.pdf.

10. ̂ Liu, Wei-Chung; Wang, Shu-Chi; Tsai, Min-Lung; Chen, Meng-Chi; Wang, Ya-Chen; Hong, Ji-Hong; McBride, William H.; Chiang, CS (2006-12). "Protection against Radiation-Induced Bone Marrow and Intestinal Injuries by Cordyceps sinensis, a Chinese Herbal Medicine". Radiation Research 166 (6): 900–907. doi:10.1667/RR0670.1. PMID 17149981.

11. ̂ Ko WS, Hsu SL, Chyau CC, Chen KC, Peng RY (July 2009). "Compound Cordyceps TCM-700C exhibits potent hepatoprotective capability in animal model". Fitoterapia 81 (1): 1–7. doi:10.1016/j.fitote.2009.06.018. PMID 19596425.

12. ̂ Nishizawa K, Torii K, Kawasaki A, et al. (September 2007). "Antidepressant-like effect of Cordyceps sinensis in the mouse tail suspension test". Biol. Pharm. Bull. 30 (9): 1758–1762. doi:10.1248/bpb.30.1758. PMID 17827735.

13. ̂ Kiho T, Hui J, Yamane A, Ukai S (December 1993). "Polysaccharides in fungi. XXXII. Hypoglycemic activity and chemical properties of a polysaccharide from the cultural mycelium of Cordyceps sinensis". Biol. Pharm. Bull. 16 (12): 1291–1293. PMID 8130781.

14. ̂ Kiho T, Yamane A, Hui J, Usui S, Ukai S (February 1996). "Polysaccharides in fungi. XXXVI. Hypoglycemic activity of a polysaccharide (CS-F30) from the cultural mycelium of Cordyceps sinensis and its effect on glucose metabolism in mouse liver". Biol. Pharm. Bull. 19 (2): 294–296. PMID 8850325.

15. ̂ Zhao CS, Yin WT, Wang JY, et al. (June 2002). "CordyMax Cs-4 improves glucose metabolism and increases insulin sensitivity in normal rats". J Altern Complement Med 8 (3): 309–314. doi:10.1089/10755530260127998. PMID 12165188.

16. ̂ Lo HC, Tu ST, Lin KC, Lin SC (April 2004). "The anti-hyperglycemic activity of the fruiting body of Cordyceps in diabetic rats induced by nicotinamide and streptozotocin". Life Sci. 74 (23): 2897–2908. doi:10.1016/j.lfs.2003.11.003. PMID 15050427.

17. ̂ Li SP, Zhang GH, Zeng Q, et al. (June 2006). "Hypoglycemic activity of polysaccharide, with antioxidation, isolated from cultured Cordyceps mycelia". Phytomedicine 13 (6): 428–433. doi:10.1016/j.phymed.2005.02.002. PMID 16716913.

18. ̂ Mackay, Duncan (2001-07-24). "Ma's army on the march again". The Guardian. http://www.guardian.co.uk/sport/2001/jul/24/athletics.duncanmackay1. Retrieved 2010-12-04.

19. ̂ Winkler, Daniel (2008). "Yarsa Gunbu (Cordyceps sinensis) and the Fungal Commodification of the Rural Economy in Nepal". Economic Botany 62 (3): 291–305. doi:10.1007/s12231-008-9038-3 (inactive 2010-01-07).

20. ̂ Owsianik, Jenna (2010-07-14). "Bird's nests, fungus stolen in high-end B.C. heist.". Ctvbc.ca. http://www.ctvbc.ctv.ca/servlet/an/local/CTVNews/20100714/bc_herbal_robbery_100714/20100714?hub=BritishColumbiaHome. Retrieved 2010-12-04.

[edit] Further reading

Bensky, D.; Gamble, A.; Clavey, S.; Stoger, E.; Lai Bensky, L. (2004). Chinese Herbal Medicine: Materia Medica (3rd ed.). Seattle: Eastland Press. ISBN 0-939616-42-4.

Kobayasi, Y. (1941). "The genus Cordyceps and its allies". Science Reports of the Tokyo Bunrika Daigaku, Sect. B 5: 53–260. ISSN 0371-3547.

Mains, E. B. (1957). "Species of Cordyceps parasitic on Elaphomyces " . Bulletin of the Torrey Botanical Club 84 (4): 243–251. doi:10.2307/2482671. ISSN 0040-9618. http://jstor.org/stable/2482671.

Mains, E. B. (1958). "North American entomogenous species of Cordyceps " . Mycologia 50 (2): 169–222. doi:10.2307/3756193. ISSN 0027-5514. http://jstor.org/stable/3756193.

Tzean, S. S.; Hsieh, L. S.; Wu, W. J. (1997). Atlas of entomopathogenic fungi from Taiwan. Taiwan: Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan.

Paterson, R. R. M. (2008). "Cordyceps - a traditional Chinese medicine and another fungal therapeutic biofactory?". Phytochemistry 69 (7): 1469–1495. doi:10.1016/j.phytochem.2008.01.027. PMID 18343466.

[edit] External links

Photos of Cordyceps fungi Independent Medicinal Research on Cordyceps Clinical Potential of C. sinensis by J. Howard Fun Facts about Cordyceps L'or brun du Tibet 2008 TV5 documentary coverage of Cordyceps BBC Planet Earth documentary coverage of Cordyceps An Electronic Monograph of Cordyceps and Related Fungi Cordyceps sinensis in Tibet

Cordyceps: Cancer Support and Immune Modulation From an Ancient Chinese Herbal Medicine

by Dr. Nalini Chilkov on April 27, 2011

6Share

Image via Wikipedia

Cordyceps sinensis (CS), a traditional Chinese Medicine is a fungus that has been historically used for over 2,000 years throughout China and Asia as part of treatment for a variety of conditions including many cancers. In modern times the effects of Cordyceps on immune modulation and its use in concert with modern chemotherapy agents, both to enhance therapeutic benefit and to manage side effects have been widely studied. Cordycepin, one of the active constituents, has been shown to possess many pharmacological activities including immunological stimulation, and anti-bacterial, anti-viral, anti-oxidant anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor effects. It may be of benefit to support cancer patients and cancer survivors.

Available evidence suggests that the efficacy of CS as a potential anti-neoplastic/anti cancer therapeutic agent is related to a role as an activator of innate immune responses.

Cordyceps, like many other medicinal mushrooms has been traditionally cooked into soups in Asia for its nutritive and tonic properties. Like other medicinal mushrooms CS is rich in polysaccharides, the primary immune modulators as well as being rich in vitamins and minerals. It can be thought of as a medicinal food.Cordyceps is best taken as either a water extract (tea or soup) or a high quality powder can be mixed into juice or water, or even into yoghurt or applesauce.

It is important to get high quality, properly prepared and processed Cordyceps product to insure that you will get the most benefit from this healing mushroom. As with any other product of this nature, seek the guidance of a health care professional.

The constituents in medicinal mushrooms such as CS have few drug interactions and can often be used safely along with conventional therapies. Always discuss the use of herbal medicines with your doctor.

What are the potential benefits of Cordyceps sinensis? Studies show the following actions and effects of the water extract of Cordyceps sinensis: (CS):

The polysaccharides in CS have been shown to have immune stimulating and anti tumor activity.

CS had been shown to inhibit the growth of several cancer cell lines

CS has also been shown to protect the liver and kidneys from toxic side effects of chemotherapy.

CS has been shown to potentiate and enhance the activity of some chemotherapy drugs.

CS has been shown to promote Cell Death (induce apoptosis). Normal cells will self destruct (undergo apoptosis) when the cell is damaged. Cancer cells fail to do so. Agents which cause normal cell death are used widely in chemotherapy today. CS has been shown to induce apoptosis or normal cell death in cancer cells in many studies and suggests that CS might be a valuable adjunct therapy for cancer patients.

CS is a potent antioxidant, thus protecting cells from free radical damage. Free radical damage is a process in which free electrons damage our cells and our DNA. Free radical damage is thought to be a primary factor in the aging process. Additionally when DNA (genetic material) in the cells is damaged, risk of cancer increases. CS has been shown to enhance the production of Glutathione and SOD, protective, natural antioxidants produced in our cells to protect against free radical damage and oxidation.

CS demonstrates anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation is a factor common to many diseases, including cancer. Supporting the management of inflammation modulates our immune system. In particular, CS has been shown to suppress the production of COX-2, NFkB and TNFa, inflammatory molecules present in cancer cells and many other disease processes.

CS has been shown to increase the production of Natural Killer (NK) cells. NK cells are primary protective cell in our natural innate immune response is active against both tumor cells and viral cells.

CS has also been shown to inhibit metastasis and the spread of some cancers. It is metastasis, the spread of cancer cells from the primary original site of the tumor to other parts of the body that causes cancer patients to die. Inhibiting metastasis therefore prolong life for cancer patients.

Some studies have shown that CS prevents metastasis by inhibiting angiogenesis, the process by which tumor cells make new blood vessels, allowing tumors to grow in size as well as allowing cancer cells to enter the blood stream and travel to other parts of the body.

Qualitatively cancer patients using CS along with their chemotherapy report less fatigue, reduced pain and less weight loss during treatment.

CS has also demonstrated anti-viral and antibacterial properties. Cancer patients are often at risk for infection during chemotherapy and after surgery. Researchers hypothesize that CS increases resistance to infections by modulating immune function, increasing white blood cells and Natural Killer cells and by modulating inflammation.

Additionally, CS has been shown to protect against bone loss and osteoporosis, a risk factor for many patients, especially breast cancer and prostate cancer patients on medications which block hormones.

These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult your doctor before using any supplement or herb.

Primary References (additional references available)

1. Cancer Immunol Immunother. 2010 May;59(5):789-97. Epub 2009 Dec 3.

Activation of innate immunity to reduce lung metastases in breast cancer.

Jordan JL, Nowak A, Lee TD. Department of Pathology, Atlantic Centre for Transplantation Research, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada. julie.jordan@dal.ca

2. Immunopharmacol Immunotoxicol. 2008;30(1):53-70.

Immune activation by a sterile aqueous extract of Cordyceps sinensis: mechanism of action. Jordan JL, Sullivan AM, Lee TD.

Department of Pathology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.

3. Polysaccharide of Cordyceps sinensis Enhances Cisplatin Cytotoxicity in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer H157 Cell Line. Ji NF, Yao LS, Li Y, He W, Yi KS, Huang M.

Integr Cancer Ther. 2011 Mar 7. [Epub ahead of print] PMID: 21382957 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

RESULTS: Compared with the cells treated with cisplatin alone, cell viability was significantly decreased and the expression levels of VEGF and bFGF protein were significantly reduced in the cells treated with a combination of CS and cisplatin. CONCLUSION: The current study indicates that the

polysaccharide of CS inhibits tumor growth in NSCLC and that CS may be a potential adjuvant chemotherapeutic agent in NSCLC therapy.

4. Biotechnol Appl Biochem. 2005 Aug;42(Pt 1):9-15.

Immunomodulatory and antitumour effects of an exopolysaccharide fraction from cultivated Cordyceps sinensis (Chinese caterpillar fungus) on tumour-bearing mice.Zhang W, Yang J, Chen J, Hou Y, Han X. Immunology and Reproductive Biology Laboratory, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210093, People’s Republic of China. zhangwy@nju.edu.cn

5. Exp Biol Med (Maywood). 2008 Apr;233(4):447-55.

Cordyceps sinensis health supplement enhances recovery from taxol-induced leukopenia. Liu WC, Chuang WL, Tsai ML, Hong JH, McBride WH, Chiang CS.

The Department of Biomedical Engineering and Environmental Sciences, National Tsing Hua University, 101 Sec. 2, Kuang-Fu Road, Hsinchu 30013, Taiwan. In summary, CS enhances recovery of mice from leukopenia caused by Taxol treatment. It appears to do so by protecting both hematopoietic progenitor cells directly and the bone marrow stem cell niche through its effects on osteoblast differentiation.

6. Biofactors. 2007;30(2):105-16.

Water extract of Cordyceps sinensis (WECS) inhibits the RANKL-induced osteoclast differentiation.Mizuha Y, Yamamoto H, Sato T, Tsuji M, Masuda M, Uchida M, Sakai K, Taketani Y, Yasutomo K, Sasaki H, Takeda E. Department of Clinical Nutrition, Institute of Health Biosciences, The University of Tokushima Graduate School, Kuramoto-cho, Tokushima, Japan.

7. Cordycepin suppresses TNF-alpha-induced invasion, migration and matrix metalloproteinase-9 expression in human bladder cancer cell Eo-Jin Lee, Wun-Jae Kim. Sung-Kwon Moon. Article first published online: 17 JUN 2010

DOI: 10.1002/ptr.3132 Phytotherapy Research Volume 24, Issue 12, pages 1755–1761, December 2010

8. RNA-directed agent, cordycepin, induces cell death in multiple myeloma cells

BRITISH JOURNAL OF HAEMATOLOGY

Volume 140, Issue 6, March 2008, Pages: 682–391, Lisa S. Chen, Christine M. Stellrecht and Varsha Gandhi

Article first published online : 18 JAN 2008, DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2141.2007.06955.

9. CORDYCEPIN AND CORDYCEPS SINENSIS REDUCE THE GROWTH OF HUMAN PROMYELOCYTIC LEUKAEMIA CELLS THROUGH THE Wnt SIGNALLING PATHWAY

CLINICAL AND EXPERIMENTAL PHARMACOLOGY AND PHYSIOLOGY

Volume 34November 2007, Pages: S61–S63, Noriko Yoshikawa, Kazuki Nakamura, Yu Yamaguchi, Satomi Kagota, Kazumasa Shinozuka and Masaru Kunitomo

Article first published online : 30 OCT 2007, DOI: 10.1111/j.1440-1681.2007.04781.x

10. Toxicol In Vitro. 2011 Feb 15. [Epub ahead of print] Induction of apoptosis by cordycepin via reactive oxygen species generation in human leukemia cells.Jeong JW, Jin CY, Park C, Hong SH, Kim GY, Jeong YK, Lee JD, Yoo YH, Choi YH. Department of Biochemistry and Research Institute of Oriental Medicine, Dongeui University College of Oriental Medicine, Busan 614-052, Republic of Korea; Department of Microbiology, College of Natural Sciences, Pusan National University, Busan 609-735, Republic of Korea.

11. Li SP; Li P; Dong TT; Tsim KW Anti-oxidation activity of different types of natural Cordyceps

sinensis and cultured Cordyceps mycelia. Phytomedicine 2001 May;8(3):207-12 (ISSN: 0944-

7113) Department of Biology and Biotechnology Research Institute, The Hong Kong University

of Science and Technology, China.

12. Shin KH; Lim SS; Lee SH; Lee YS; Cho SY, Antioxidant and immunostimulating activities of the

fruiting bodies of Paecilomyces japonica, a new type of Cordyceps sp. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2001

Apr;928:261-73 (ISSN: 0077-8923) Natural Products Research Institute, Seoul National

University, Korea. khshin@plaza.snu.ac.kr.

13. Shin KH, Lim SS, Lee S, Lee YS, Jung SH, Cho SY., Anti-tumor and immuno-stimulating

activities of the fruiting bodies of Paecilomyces japonica, a new type of Cordyceps spp. Phytother

Res. 2003 Aug;17(7):830-3. Natural Products Research Institute, Seoul National University,

Seoul, Korea. khshin@snu.ac.kr

14. Jordan JL, Sullivan AM, Lee TD. Immune activation by a sterile aqueous extract of Cordyceps

sinensis: mechanism of action. Immunopharmacol Immunotoxicol. 2008;30(1):53-70.

subscribe to our free Monthly Newsletter! Click on the image here —> Continue learning more about Integrative Cancer Care and Optimal Health and Wellness. You can unsubscribe at any time.

Did you like this? Share it: