Chronic Bronchitis in 10 year old Dachsund / Cordyceps sinensis
Answered by: Kerry Hackett
Question from: Dan
Posted on: June 03, 2010

Will Cordyceps Sinensis Mushrooms help with Chronic Bronchitis in our 10 year old Dachsund dog? If so, what would be the best does and how often for how long? She weighs 9-10kg.

Chronic canine bronchitis can have many underlying causes. It usually affects small and toy breed dogs, particularly those who are middle aged to elderly. Causes range from allergy based conditions to infections, parasites, serious lung conditions to heart related issues. In all, this condition requires a multi-faceted approach, starting with a definite diagnosis from your veterinarian. If allergies are suspected then it might be helpful to look at the dog’s diet, environment, stress levels, digestive processes, etc. in order to see if there are mitigating circumstances that are having an effect on your dog. The best way to go about this would be to seek the advice of a qualified practitioner who has experience with both animals and herbal medicines.

Cordyceps sinensis is a dried fungus that grows on a particular catepillar larvae and is, as such, not a herbal medicine. However, it has been used for centuries in the Chinese culture as a food and medicine. Traditionally is has been used to strengthen a body after an extended illness and aid in lung weakness. Wynn and Fougere (2007) state that historical use includes "... cough, anemia, tuberculosis, lower back pain, impotence, infertility, irregular menstruation, night sweats and senile weakness." They also mention that it should not be used in patients on antithrombotic or blood-thinning medications and corticosteroids. Their recommended dose for a small animal is:

Dried herb: 25 - 500 mg/kg divided into three doses per day (extracted and dried material)

Infusion: 5 - 30 per cup of water administered at a rate of 1/4 to 1/2 cup per 10kg (20lb) divided into three doses per day

Tincture (27.5% alcohol): 1:2 - 1:3 (ratio of material to alcohol) 0.5 - 2.0 ml per 10kg (20lb) divided into three doses per day.

Unfortunately, I have no experience in the use of Cordyceps so cannot answer your question with any personal experience. Many other herbs might be appropriate in this case, however, a practitioner should really see the animal and take a full case history before making any specific recommendations.

