What are Cordyceps Mushrooms?

Cordyceps Militaris / Sinensis 

Cordyceps are a genus of parasitic fungi that grow on the larvae of insects. When these fungi attack their host, they replace its tissue and sprout long, slender stems that grow outside the host’s body. The remains of the insect and fungi have been hand-collected, dried and used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries to treat fatigue, sickness, kidney disease and low sex drive. Of the more than 400 species of cordyceps discovered, two have become the focus of health research: Cordyceps militaris and Cordyceps sinensis.

  • Increased Exercise Performance

    Cordyceps are thought to increase the body’s production of the molecule adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is essential for delivering energy to the muscles. This may improve the way your body uses oxygen, especially during exercise.

  • Anti-Aging Properties

    Cordyceps contain antioxidants that can fight cell damage by neutralizing free radicals, which can otherwise contribute to disease and aging. Several studies have found that cordyceps increase antioxidants in aged mice, helping improve memory and sexual function.

  • Anti-Inflammatory Effects

    Cordyceps can help reduce inflammation by modulating the immune system and inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Inflammation is a common cause of many chronic diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, heart disease, cancer, and diabetes.

  • Supporting Respiratory Health

    Cordyceps mushrooms can support and improve respiratory function. Some studies suggest they help increase oxygen utilization in the body, enhancing lung capacity and improving breathing efficiency. This makes Cordyceps an excellent supplement for those with respiratory issues or athletes looking to improve their endurance.

Forms and Dosages of Cordyceps Mushrooms

Cordyceps mushrooms are available in various forms to suit your preferences and lifestyle. Whether you prefer brewing them as a tea, incorporating them into your coffee, using capsules, or taking them as an extract, Cordyceps mushrooms offer flexible and convenient ways to enjoy their benefits. But how much should you take? And how often? Let’s explore the best methods to consume Cordyceps mushrooms safely and effectively.

Incorporate Cordyceps into your lifestyle

How Do I Use Cordyceps Mushrooms?

Tea

You can brew Cordyceps mushrooms as a tea by steeping dried or fresh Cordyceps in hot water for about 15 minutes. You can add honey or lemon to enhance the flavor. Tea is a simple and traditional way to consume Cordyceps mushrooms and enjoy their benefits.

Coffee

You can add Cordyceps mushroom liquid extract to your coffee to create a delicious and energizing drink. Blend it well with your coffee and add milk or creamer to taste. Coffee with Cordyceps is an enjoyable way to start your day with a boost of energy and stamina.

Capsules

Cordyceps mushroom capsules are an easy and convenient way to incorporate this beneficial fungi into your diet. Capsules provide a standardized dose of Cordyceps extract, making it simple to take them with water or other beverages. This form is particularly useful for those who prefer not to taste the mushroom flavor.

Smoothies

Add Cordyceps mushroom liquid extract to your smoothies for an easy and tasty way to incorporate the mushrooms into your diet. Blend the extract with your favorite fruits and vegetables for a nutritious and energy-boosting drink.

These are some common ways to consume Cordyceps mushrooms and enjoy their health benefits. But how much should you take? And how often?

Special Note:

Cordyceps has been administered in human studies at doses ranging from 1,000 to 3,000 mg per day, taken either as a single dose or divided into multiple doses with meals. This amount is sufficient to support energy, stamina, and overall vitality.

  • Start low and go slow

    It is advisable to start with a low dose of Cordyceps mushrooms and gradually increase it over time, until you find the optimal amount that works for you. This can help you avoid any potential side effects or interactions that may occur with higher doses.

  • Cycle your intake

    Take Cordyceps mushrooms for a certain period, then take a break before resuming. This prevents tolerance or dependence. A typical cycle is about 4 to 6 weeks on, then 2 to 4 weeks off, then repeat.

  • Consult your doctor

    Always consult your doctor before taking any supplement, especially if you have any medical condition or are taking medication. Cordyceps mushrooms are generally safe, but they may interact with some drugs or cause side effects in some people.

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Cordyceps Militaris vs Cordyceps Sinensis

Cordyceps Militaris and Cordyceps Sinensis are the two most popular and widely studied species of Cordyceps mushrooms. They have many similarities, such as their parasitic nature, their medicinal properties, and their appearance. However, they also have some notable differences that make them unique and preferred for different purposes.

Chemical Composition and Bioactive Compounds

For example, Cordyceps Militaris is known to have higher levels of cordycepin than Cordyceps Sinensis. Cordycepin is a nucleoside analog that has anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, anti-viral, and immunomodulatory effects. It can also regulate cell growth and differentiation, apoptosis (programmed cell death), and autophagy (cellular self-digestion).

On the other hand, Cordyceps Sinensis is known to have higher levels of adenosine than Cordyceps Militaris. Adenosine is a nucleoside that has cardioprotective, neuroprotective, anti-oxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects. It can also modulate energy metabolism, blood flow, oxygen delivery, and neurotransmission.

Cultivation and Availability

Another difference between Cordyceps Militaris and Cordyceps Sinensis is in their cultivation and availability. Cordyceps Militaris is easier to cultivate than Cordyceps Sinensis, as it can grow on various substrates (such as grains, sawdust, or silkworm pupae) under controlled conditions. It can also produce fruiting bodies in a shorter time (about 2 months) than cordyceps sinensis (about 6 months).

Cordyceps Sinensis is harder to cultivate than Cordyceps Militaris, as it requires specific host insects (ghost moth larvae) and environmental factors (high altitude, low temperature, low humidity) to grow. It also produces fruiting bodies only after the host insect dies and decomposes. Therefore, most of the commercially available Cordyceps Sinensis products are actually made from mycelium (the vegetative part of the fungus) grown on artificial media (such as rice or potato).

Due to these differences in cultivation and availability, Cordyceps Militaris is more widely used than Cordyceps Sinensis in the modern market. Cordyceps Militaris products are cheaper, more abundant, more standardized, and more potent than Cordyceps Sinensis products. They are also more suitable for vegetarians and vegans who do not want to consume insect-derived products.

Ready to Experience the Benefits of Cordyceps Mushrooms?

Cordyceps mushrooms are ancient superfoods with modern health benefits. They offer holistic wellness, from boosting your energy levels to enhancing your immune system. Experience the magic of Cordyceps mushrooms by ordering from our online Farmstand today.