Ultra Cordyceps contains pure cultivated Cordyceps sinensis, an herb used for centuries in China as a rejuvenating tonic that improves energy and supports function of various organs and systems. The strain of Cordyceps in this product is recognized by the Chinese government as similar to wild Cordyceps sinensis, a rare fungus that grows above 15,000 feet in the Tibetan Highlands of China.
Suggested Adult Use: Take 1 to 4 capsules daily, with or without food.
Other Ingredients: Modified cellulose (vegetarian capsule), cellulose, magnesium silicate.
Contains nothing other than listed ingredients.
Warning: If taking blood-thinning medications (anticoagulants) or MAO inhibitors, consult a physician before using. Keep out of reach of children.
750mg, 60VC
Cordyceps Sinesis
Ultra Cordyceps contains a strain of pure cultivated Cordyceps sinensis recognized by the Chinese government as very similar to wild Cordyceps sinensis. Highly valued in China as a food and tonic, wild Cordyceps is an exotic fungal complex found at very high altitudes in a mountainous region of China known as the Qinghai-Tibetan Highlands. Also called "Chinese caterpillar fungus," wild Cordyceps grows on, and derives nutrients from, several species of caterpillars. As wild Cordyceps is rare and difficult to harvest due to its harsh growing environment and limited occurrence in nature, commercial cultivation of the fungal complex began in the early 1980s, making it readily available for research. Results from trials of over 2,000 participants in China determined that cultivated Cordyceps was very similar to wild Cordyceps in terms of effects on energy and parameters of health.1 Ultra Cordyceps contains an award-winning strain of cultivated Cordyceps mycelia standardized by HPLC for consistent potency. It contains a minimum level of 8% cordycepic acid (D-mannitol), an important bioactive compound. In addition to cordycepic acid, biochemical analysis of Cordyceps sinensis has revealed many other active constituents: polysaccharides, nucleosides (including the adenosine derivative cordycepin), sterols, amino acids, and trace elements.2, 3
The historical use of Cordyceps as an anti-aging herb in traditional Chinese practices dates back to 1700 BCE. During China’s Chin Dynasty, one emperor is said to have paid an ounce of gold for a three-day supply of the precious fungus. Tibetan scholars recorded detailed descriptions of Cordyceps in 15th and 18th century texts. Cordyceps was introduced to Europe at a scientific meeting in Paris in 1726, and was first imported to Japan in 1728.
Due to its wide range of biological actions, it has been used against fatigue, to escalate vitality and sexual health, to promote longevity, and to support the health of the lungs, the kidneys, the liver, and the cardiovascular system.3,5 Cordyceps is known as a “kidney tonic” in traditional Chinese practices, where the kidneys constitute a functional organ system that stores vital energy (or “Jing”). This is significant because under this tradition, Cordyceps is regarded as both “Yin-nourishing” and “Yang-invigorating” for a very balancing effect on many facets of human physiology, from sensitivity to cold to respiratory health.1 Science has confirmed the utility of Cordyceps for many purposes, including its anti-fatigue & anti-stress properties.6
Immune Response Support*
Results of many preclinical studies suggest that Cordyceps promotes balanced immune cell function. Among the most interesting of these studies was one that investigated the ability of Cordyceps to differentially modulate the activities of different dendrite cell stages—key to balancing control of the homeostatic steady-state of the our immune system. These results suggested that Cordyceps bolsters immune function where necessary, yet suppresses over-reactive immune responses.7 Other immune function results reported by Cordyceps researchers include elevation of natural killer cell activity, intestinal T-cell activation, and activation of signaling molecules that support the production of healthy immune proteins.8, 9
While scientists often strive to isolate individual compounds in a naturally occurring complex like Cordyceps to determine which is responsible for certain biological actions, this process can ignore the fact that different components in Cordyceps may have synergistic activity.2 One group of researchers found that when investigating the immune activity of different components of Cordyceps in mice, some polysaccharides could impact the phagocytic function of monocyte-macrophages, while others could enhance immune response differently. In more recent in vitro work, polysaccharide fraction from mycelia of Cordyceps not only promoted macrophage phagocytic function, but also stimulated macrophage nitric oxide production (another tool used by these immune cells to maintain health).10
Antiradical Properties*
In vitro studies have demonstrated that the polysaccharide content of Cordyceps is largely behind its free radical scavenging properties.11, 12 Although not yet clearly understood, the antiradical mechanism of polysaccharides could be the donation of hydrogen to break free radical chain reactions.13 Studies in rodents, in humans, and in the laboratory have demonstrated that Cordyceps can inhibit formation of MDA (malondialdehyde), a free radical byproduct, in the liver and possibly in the brain.3, 14 In mice, Cordyceps promoted cerebral antioxidant homeostasis and was shown to safeguarding the integrity of neuronal cells, which influenced neurobehavioral function.15 As in mice, cell membranes in the human brain are vulnerable to lipid peroxidation because of their high polyunsaturated fat content. Through animal and in vitro models of lipid peroxidation, Cordyceps has shown an ability to support the health and integrity of lipids in the face of free radical oxidation.3, 16
Cordyceps has been regarded as a very safe complex throughout its traditional history, and it is considered safe for clinical use today. Animal studies have not found a lethal dose, even when Cordyceps is given in extremely high amounts (10,000 to 80,000 milligrams per kilogram of body weight), nor has Cordyceps mycelia shown teratogenic or mutagenic effects in experiments.23 Mild gastrointestinal discomfort has been reported in patients taking some forms of Cordyceps.
Adverse effects of Ginkgo biloba are relatively low in occurrence and include mild gastrointestinal complaints, headaches, allergic skin reactions, and interactions with blood thinner medications; as always, consult your physician before consuming this supplement if you are currently taking any prescription medications.22
As an edible plant, artichoke is regarded as safe and non-toxic, although direct skin contact with artichoke leaves has been reported to cause dermatitis in allergic individuals. Due to the its bile-thinning action, persons with gall stones or bile-duct obstruction may wish to consult a physician before consuming large amounts of artichoke leaves or extracts.24
Zhu, J.S., G.M. Halpern, and K. Jones, J Altern Complement Med, 1998. 4(3): p. 289-303.
Zhou, X., et al., J Pharm Pharmacol, 2009. 61(3): p. 279-91.
Paterson, R.R., Phytochemistry, 2008. 69(7): p. 1469-95.
Baltasi, C., J Am Diet Assoc, 2007. 107(3): p. 432-3.
Panda, A.K. and K.C. Swain, J Ayurveda Integr Med, 2011. 2(1): p. 9-13.
Koh, J.H., et al., Biological & Pharmaceutical Bulletin, 2003. 26(5): p. 691-694.
Li, C.Y., et al., J Leukoc Biol, 2009. 85(6): p. 987-95.
Leu, S.F., et al., Biological & Pharmaceutical Bulletin, 2005. 28(9): p. 1722-1725.
Koh, J.H., et al., Biosci Biotechnol Biochem, 2002. 66(2): p. 407-11.
Chen, W., et al., Cell Immunol, 2010. 262(1): p. 69-74.
Liu, Y.K. and W. Shen, World J Gastroenterol, 2003. 9(3): p. 529-33.
Li, S.P., et al., Phytomedicine, 2001. 8(3): p. 207-12.
Wang, B.J., et al., Food Chem Toxicol, 2005. 43(4): p. 543-52.
Yamaguchi, Y., et al., Phytother Res, 2000. 14(8): p. 647-9.
Liu, Z., et al., Behav Brain Funct, 2010. 6: p. 61.
Yamaguchi, Y., et al., Phytother Res, 2000. 14(8): p. 650-2.
Nakamura, K., et al., Jpn J Pharmacol, 1999. 79(4): p. 505-8.
Manabe, N., et al., Br J Nutr, 2000. 83(2): p. 197-204.
Gebhardt, R., Toxicol Appl Pharmacol, 1997. 144(2): p. 279-86.
Li, H., et al., J Pharmacol Exp Ther, 2004. 310(3): p. 926-32.
Zhou, W., et al., Cardiovasc Drug Rev, 2004. 22(4): p. 309-19.
Mahadevan, S. and Y. Park, J Food Sci, 2008. 73(1): p. R14-9.
Zhu, J.S., G.M. Halpern, and K. Jones, J Altern Complement Med, 1998. 4(4): p. 429-57.
Blumenthal, M., et al., eds. 1998, American Botanical Council: Austin, TX. 683.
The Certificate of Analysis I have for the last batch of Cordyceps bulk says “Fermented Cordyceps Mycelia Powder CS-4”. What does CS-4 mean?
A1.
Wild Cordyceps Sinensis is extremely rare in nature which takes about 6 years to complete its life cycle and therefore very expensive. Because of this, Chinese Scientists developed a technique for isolating a fermentable strain from wild Cordyceps Sinensis called Cs-4. It is used to produce fermented mycelia product that contains pharmacologically active components similar to the wild Cordyceps Sinensis including cordycepic acid (D-mannitol), adenosine, and polysaccharides.
True Cs-4 is never produced from other Cordyceps species.
Q2.
What is modified cellulose and is it safe?
A2.
The cellulose is derived from alpha cellulose from softwood pulp. This softwood pulp may be derived from hemlock, spruce or other soft woods. It is made by cooking raw plant fiber in an aqueous solution to separate the cellulose, and then purified. It then goes through extra processing to further break down the fiber. The finished product contains no residual solvents. Excipients are needed to make the materials flow into the capsule and are extremely minute in amounts and are safe.
Q3.
I am somewhat confused on how to take the DRB products. On many of the labels the Suggested Adult Use will list something along the lines of: Take 2 capsules daily, but it does not state whether they should be taken together or separately. What is the correct usage?
A3.
Unless otherwise specified on the label, the product may be taken together or separately.
Q4.
Is there a limit to how many vitamins can be taken safely in one day?
A4.
While our bodies need vitamins and minerals, like other things, if taken in large amounts they may adversely affect health. Large amounts of anything can be toxic. It is important to follow all label directions and discuss any concerns with your physician.
Q5.
What are the other ingredients and why are they used?
A5.
These are used as flow agents and aid in the production to keep the machinery running smoothly and the capsules filling correctly. Similarly for the croscarmellose sodium, which is cellulose (sourced from the cell walls of green plants), and is used to help disintegrate the tablet in the stomach.
Q6.
What is Silicon Dioxide and how is it produced?
A6.
Silicon dioxide is the most abundant mineral in the Earth’s crust, and it is found across the world in various forms. Silicon dioxide (SiO2) in its pure form is colorless to white. Precipitated synthetic amorphous silicas are obtained from a process essentially using sand.
Precipitated silica is a safe (non-crystalline) mineral. According to the relevant United States and European Union standards, precipitated silica is non-hazardous with regard to manufacture, transportation and handling. Precipitated silica is an inert powder and a certified food and feed additive.
Q7.
Should I be concerned when I see that Silicon Dioxide has been used as an excipient in DRB products?
A7.
According to numerous studies reviewed to date on this long-term Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) listed food additive, the following was found:
The oral toxicity in mice is greater than (>) 5 grams/kilogram of body weight (Kimmerle 1968), or greater than 350 grams in one dose in humans based on allometric comparisons between mice and humans.
A single dose of 2.5 grams of amorphous polymeric silicon dioxide to human volunteers did not significantly raise the SiO2 excretion in the urine thus suggesting poor absorption of the compound (silicon dioxide)--(Langendorf 1966). Less than one one-hundredth (1000th) of the dose was found in urine, suggesting extremely poor absorption--(Langendorf 1966).
This would suggest that there is no scientific reason to eliminate silicon dioxide as an excipient at the very low levels found in dietary supplements.
For further information re: Silicon dioxide, see "Minerals, Trace Elements and Human Health, 4th Edition."
Q8.
Why is silicon dioxide used as an excipient in DRB products?
A8.
Silicon Dioxide is commonly used as a flow agent in supplements. It also works as an anti-caking agent, and is added as an ingredient in foods, many multivitamins and mineral supplements because silicon is necessary for good health and is a necessary nutrient for the health of skin, hair, nails and bones.
Q9.
What is cellulose and modified cellulose produced from?
A9.
Southern pine and spruce.
Q10.
Since Doctor's Best does not manufacture its supplements, how are the purity and integrity of supplements verified? In addition, how are your prices lower than other brands? Does this mean that quality is being compromised?
A10.
Doctor's Best supplements are manufactured in the US at cGMP (current Good Manufacturing Practice) certified facilities. All of our manufacturers and suppliers go through our vendor qualification program, which includes inspections and testing, before we agree to work with them. Our finished products have also been tested at the raw material level, in process, and as a finished product to ensure safety and quality. We place the highest importance on safety and quality and do not compromise for the sake of a better price point. The price points are lower because of production size and the overall business structure. We also place great importance on making our supplements available and affordable to those who need them most.
Q11.
What is HPLC?
A11.
HPLC stands for "High Performance Liquid Chromatography." This is an analytical lab testing method that is used to quantify the active ingredients. It is considered to be a very sensitive and accurate test. HPLC testing is a tool recognized as a quality benchmark for herbal extracts.
Q12.
Does cellulose interfere with the absorption of supplements?
A12.
Dietary fiber in general is known to change intestinal viscosity, nutrient absorption, transit time, and gut hormones. Although there is some evidence from animal studies that large amounts of cellulose in the diet (6-12% of diet) can interfere with nutrient absorption (particularly minerals), there is no evidence that the small amount in capsules interfere with nutrient absorption, as there are many pharmacokinetic studies that have been conducted with nutrients in cellulose capsules, demonstrating the ability of the nutrients to be effectively absorbed.
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