Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Caterpillar mushroom (Cordyceps sinensis) has a long history of use in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for supporting respiratory health and immunity, which includes the prevention of colds and other respiratory infections. In TCM, it is believed to "replenish the lungs and kidneys" and "boost vital energy (Qi)," concepts that are frequently interpreted as promoting general resilience against illness, including the common cold. Traditional practitioners have used Cordyceps as a tonic to help ward off illness, support recovery from fatigue, and enhance overall vitality.

From a scientific perspective, modern research on Cordyceps has mostly focused on its purported immunomodulatory effects, such as enhancing certain immune cell functions in vitro and in animal studies. Some laboratory studies suggest that extracts of Cordyceps may increase the activity of natural killer cells and macrophages, which are important for the body’s defense against infections. However, there is a lack of high-quality clinical trials specifically evaluating the effectiveness of Cordyceps for preventing or treating the common cold in humans. Thus, while traditional use is robust, scientific validation remains preliminary and indirect. In summary, the use of caterpillar mushroom for the prevention of colds is primarily justified by traditional practices, with limited supporting evidence from scientific studies.

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