Consuming Cordyceps During Pregnancy: Is It Safe or Not?

Cordyceps is a functional mushroom native to the Himalayan regions of India, Nepal, China, and Bhutan, and is commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine to boost energy, endurance, and exercise performance. It is often referred to as the "athlete’s mushroom" or "energy mushroom". Today, Cordyceps is used in supplements to boost energy and stamina, reduce fatigue and reduce inflammation. Although functional mushrooms are generally considered safe to consume, one has to be increasingly vigilant about what they ingest while pregnant.

Keep reading to discover the risk of using Cordyceps during pregnancy.

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Side Effects & Risks of Using Cordyceps During Pregnancy

According to the Botanical Safety Handbook, which talks about adaptogenic mushrooms and functional herbs in pregnancy and lactation, "Cordyceps can be safely consumed during pregnancy." However, as supplements in general do not go through FDA approval and there simply isn't enough research on this topic, many medical practitioners recommend avoiding functional mushrooms when pregnant.



Even though they are generally considered safe, Cordyceps may cause stomach problems, nausea, and dry mouth in some people. It is strictly advised not to take Cordyceps if you have a bleeding disorder. Cordyceps can also interact with certain medicines such as blood thinners and immunosuppressors.

» Want to learn more about Cordyceps? Discover this mushroom's health benefits and potential side effects

The Verdict: Should You Avoid Cordyceps During Pregnancy?

There are no specific prohibitions to taking Cordyceps during pregnancy. That said, it is always best to be on the safe side and check in with your healthcare provider.

These mushrooms have numerous properties such as being anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal, anti-allergic, antiarthritic, and anti-aging. Supplements containing adaptogenic mushrooms such as Cordyceps may boost your health and immunity during pregnancy, but it is best to take them under proper medical supervision to avoid any complications.