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Improving your Kidney Function with Cordyceps

Updated: Jul 15, 2020


Cordyceps has been seen to improve kidney function

I have a deep fascination with mushrooms, herbs, fungus and the like that have the innate ability to heal the body. Specifically in this case, Cordyceps Sinensis and its relationship to kidney function. Cordyceps also known as Chinese caterpillar fungus, has a wide variety of health benefits for cardiovascular, kidney, liver and respiratory concerns. It also has been shown to be helpful with low libido, impotence and hyperlipidemia (high cholesterol). All these benefits are great, but specifically I was interested in its relationship to kidney function and the ability to manipulate testing markers that monitor the progress of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD).


CKD is a common condition that causes a decrease in kidney functioning overtime and usually is asymptomatic until it becomes advanced. It is also associated with diseases such as insulin, hypertension and other infectious diseases. If you do not already know your kidney status than through diagnostic blood work (specifically eGFR and creatinine levels), urinalysis (an increase in protein in your urine) or imaging, you can assess for kidney disease.


When researching the impacts Cordyceps has on kidney function I came across a Systematic Review from the Cochrane Library that discusses specifically its effects on CKD. The review looks at all the randomized control trials (RCT) with a total of 1746 participants and Cordyceps impact on improving kidney measurements. The review of all the RCT studies showed potential in decreasing serum creatinine, increasing creatine clearance, reducing proteinuria (protein in your urine). These are the diagnostic markers that are monitored in CKD and with a reduction in creatinine and proteinuria while increasing creatinine clearance you would see an improvement in kidney function. Cordyceps has also shown to reduce the likelihood of CKD complications such as increased serum albumin and haemoglobin.


The mechanism of action of Cordyceps is related to its antioxidant and immunostimulatory properties, ant-inflammatory effects and specifically for kidney functioning it has the ability to decrease accumulation of extracellular matrix in the renal cortex and reducing renal interstitial fibrosis. Future research is needed, but there is promising evidence showing Cordyceps has a beneficial effect on improving CKD.


I recommend not self- prescribing with Cordyceps and talking to your ND about next steps as quality (they always have to be hot water extracted) and dose are integral. If this sounds like something you would be interested in knowing more about or trying for yourself, let chat and book in a free 15 minute consult.

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The information provided on this website does not replace the medical advice given to you by your doctor.  Information on this site should not be used to diagnose or treat.  You should see your primary care provider before making any health changes.

All Rights Reserved, Dr. Stephanie Fairborn 2024. 

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