What Is Cordyceps and How Does It Affect the Body?
Cordyceps is a genus of parasitic fungi that grow on insect larvae in mountainous regions, most notably in China and Tibet. While wild cordyceps is rare and expensive, most supplements today use cultivated versions, such as Cordyceps militaris, grown in controlled environments. Used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine, it was prized for its ability to boost energy, improve stamina, and support vitality.
Modern research recognizes cordyceps as a powerful adaptogen. The key is in its ability to modulate physiological responses to stress rather than stimulating or sedating the body directly. It helps the body restore a sense of balance, or homeostasis, particularly within the neuro-endocrine and immune systems.
The Adaptogenic Role in Managing Stress and Anxiety
Unlike stimulants that can cause jitteriness and increase heart rate, the adaptogenic properties of cordyceps work to balance the body's stress response system. It primarily influences the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which regulates cortisol production. By helping to restore proper adrenal function, cordyceps can combat adrenal fatigue, which is often associated with symptoms like brain fog, tiredness, and poor mood.
Animal studies have explored cordyceps' impact on the nervous system and mood. Some preclinical research suggests cordyceps extracts may influence neurotransmitter systems and exhibit mild anxiolytic-like (anxiety-reducing) effects, possibly through modulating oxidative stress or inflammation. A 2025 study on mice found that cordycepin, a compound in cordyceps, helped reduce fatigue-induced learning and memory deficits while decreasing stress-linked chemicals like serotonin and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain.
Potential Mechanisms Behind Cordyceps' Calming Effects
Several bioactive compounds within cordyceps contribute to its overall effect on well-being:
- Cordycepin: This key nucleoside has demonstrated neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory properties, which can protect brain cells from damage caused by stress.
- Polysaccharides: These carbohydrates are known for their immunomodulatory properties and may also contribute to the adaptogenic and antioxidant effects.
- Adenosine: A compound naturally present in cordyceps, adenosine is a neurotransmitter that promotes relaxation and helps regulate sleep. Its activation of adenosine A1 receptors can reduce neuronal excitability.
- Antioxidants: Cordyceps contains antioxidants that fight cell damage from free radicals, which is another mechanism through which it can protect the brain and support overall health under stress.
Side Effects and Potential for Increased Anxiety
For most individuals, cordyceps is considered safe when taken in recommended doses. The notion that it increases anxiety is not supported by scientific evidence. However, some people, particularly when taking high doses, may experience mild side effects:
- Digestive issues: Stomach discomfort, nausea, or diarrhea are the most commonly reported side effects.
- Insomnia: Due to its energy-boosting properties, taking cordyceps late in the day could interfere with sleep for sensitive individuals. Disturbed sleep can, in turn, increase anxiety.
- Interactions with medication: Cordyceps has blood-thinning properties and can affect blood sugar and immune system activity. Those on anticoagulants, diabetes medication, or immunosuppressants should consult a doctor before use.
Cordyceps vs. Common Stimulants
To understand why cordyceps doesn't typically increase anxiety, it helps to compare its effects with those of a common stimulant like caffeine.
| Feature | Cordyceps (Adaptogen) | Caffeine (Stimulant) |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | Helps balance the body’s stress response; regulates cortisol levels. Promotes homeostasis. | Directly stimulates the central nervous system; blocks adenosine receptors to prevent drowsiness. |
| Energy Boost | Gentle, sustained increase in energy by enhancing ATP production and oxygen utilization. | Rapid, sometimes jittery energy boost followed by a potential crash. |
| Effect on Anxiety | Generally reduces feelings of stress and fatigue, with potential calming effects. | Can trigger or worsen anxiety, nervousness, and an increased heart rate in sensitive individuals. |
| Impact on Sleep | Can potentially interfere with sleep if taken in the evening due to increased energy, but no inherent stimulant effect. | Directly disrupts sleep cycles due to its stimulatory properties. |
Does Cordyceps Help With Anxiety?
While some traditional and preclinical evidence suggests potential anxiolytic properties, the evidence is not yet conclusive, particularly from human clinical trials. The primary benefit is derived from its adaptogenic and anti-fatigue effects, which can indirectly alleviate symptoms associated with stress and anxiety, such as exhaustion and low mood. Anyone seeking to treat anxiety should consult a healthcare professional before relying on supplements.
Conclusion: A Balancing Act, Not a Cause for Concern
The available evidence suggests that cordyceps does not increase anxiety and, in fact, may help the body manage stress more effectively. Its classification as an adaptogen means it works to restore balance within the body's systems, rather than over-stimulating them in a way that could exacerbate anxious feelings. While research on its direct effects on human anxiety is still limited, its traditional use and preclinical data support its role in promoting general well-being and stress resilience. Individuals should still adhere to recommended dosages and consult a healthcare provider, especially if they have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.
