Randomized Double-blind Placebo-controlled Clinical Trial andAssessment of Fermentation Product of Cordyceps Sinensis (Cs-4) inEnhancing Aerobic Capacity and Respiratory Function ofThe Healthy Elderly Volunteers

摘要

Objective: Cordyceps sinensis (CS) is a popular natural Chinese herbal medicine for invigoration, health preservation and reducing fatigue. Its natural substance has been prepared as a fermentation product of a specific strain of Cordyceps sinensis (Cs-4). Our objective was to assess the effect of Cs-4 on the exercise capacity of the healthy elderly people in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.Methods; Thirty-seven healthy, elderly Chinese subjects were randomly assigned to receive either Cs-4 (3 g/day) or identical placebo capsules. Their exercise performance was tested before and after 6 weeks of treatment with a symptom-limited, incremental work rate protocol on a cycle ergometer. Maximum oxygen uptake (VO2max) was measured using a metabolic chart. Anaerobic thresholds (VO2θ) were identified by two observers using plots of both VCO2 vs VO2 and VE/VO2 vs time. Results: After taking Cs-4 for 6 weeks,VO2max (1. 88±0.13 to 2. 00±0.14 L/min; P=0.050) and VO2θ (1. 15±0.07 to 1. 30±0.09 L/min; P=0. 012) were significantly increased, whereas after placebo application they were unchanged. Conclusion:These findings support the belief held in China that Cs-4 could improve oxygen uptake or aerobic capacity and ventilation function and resistance to fatigue of elderly people in exercise.