Caterpillar mushroom, also known as Cordyceps sinensis, has a long history of use in traditional Chinese and Tibetan medicine, particularly for supporting recovery during convalescence. Traditional practitioners have valued Cordyceps for its reputed ability to restore energy, enhance stamina, and promote general vitality after illness or physical exhaustion. Historical records dating back centuries describe its use for revitalizing the body, improving lung and kidney function, and accelerating the recovery process after chronic diseases or surgery.

The traditional rationale for its use in convalescence centers on its classification as a tonic, believed to balance the body's vital energies (Qi) and support immune function. While modern scientific studies have investigated Cordyceps for immunomodulatory, anti-fatigue, and adaptogenic effects, much of the direct evidence for its efficacy in convalescence is limited to animal studies and small human trials with mixed results. Most clinical studies focus on chronic kidney disease, exercise performance, and general fatigue rather than specifically on post-illness recovery.

In summary, Cordyceps’ use in convalescence is primarily rooted in traditional practices, with some preliminary scientific data suggesting potential benefits. However, robust clinical trials directly assessing its efficacy for convalescence in humans are lacking, so evidence is moderate and mainly traditional.