Discover the Power of Cordyceps: The Ancient Fungus for Modern Health

Cordyceps in Modern Supplements

The popularity of Cordyceps has surged, with C. sinensis and C. militaris leading the way. Despite challenges in cultivating true C. sinensis, advancements have led to the development of Cs-4, a cultivated mycelium with similar health benefits. It’s crucial to source these supplements carefully to ensure purity and effectiveness.

So, here’s the deal: commercially cultivated Cordyceps sinensis is not testing as sinensis.

This is an entire article in itself, but the bottom line is that the cultivated Cordyceps sinensis species that you might be buying as a supplement, most likely is not true to its species.

In the 1980’s, when the wild Cordyceps sinensis was gaining in popularity and the price tag kept climbing, scientists in China set out to cultivate this fungus. Many tried and many failed. Still, to this day, there is no affordable cultivated version of this mushroom. What the scientists did end up with are Cordyceps anamorphs, mycelium cultures that are unable to produce a mushroom (fruiting body).

The cultivated Cordyceps sinensis mycelium that is grown for supplements is now called Cs-4. When Cs-4 is DNA tested it doesn’t show up as sinensis any longer, instead cordyceps anamorphs show up, and it tests as another species, such as Cordyceps subsessilis. 

The issue with Cs-4 is that most of the time, the mycelium is grown in large fermentation tanks creating a mass amount of pure mycelium, which is basically “fermented mushroom grain” that is then pulverized and turned into a dry powder, and the mushroom is never fruited.

The end result is a 100% pure mycelium product that is similar to actual C. sinesis in terms of chemical make-up and similar beneficial compounds. Yet, you might be consuming a product as high as 65% of starch from the excessive amount of grain that might be in the end product. *Ensure your source of Cs-4 is from a reputable supplier, and ensure your mushrooms are true to species, on top of them not being diluted with GMO grains, and other fillers.

This is why we’ve chosen to offer a super clean, properly farmed and undiluted source of Cordyceps militaris. In our powder we offer the actual fruiting body as well as the mycelium, which are steam extracted to break open the cell wall for optimum absorption.   

The Top 7 Health Benefits of Cordyceps

1. Kidney Protection: Cordyceps has shown promise in protecting kidneys from damage and enhancing their function.
2. Immune System Boost: With anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, Cordyceps supports overall immune health.
3. Liver Health: It offers liver protection and may aid in treating conditions like hepatitis.
4. Athletic Performance: Known to improve stamina and exercise performance, Cordyceps is a favorite among athletes.
5. Respiratory Health: It has been found to reduce inflammation in the lungs and improve breathing in asthma patients.
6. Sexual Health: Cordyceps has a history of use as an aphrodisiac and fertility enhancer.
7. Cancer Progression: Active compounds in Cordyceps have been observed to slow cancer growth and support the immune system in fighting cancer.

For those interested read up on the many cancer studies here:

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Recommended Dosage and Considerations

For those incorporating Cordyceps into their health regimen, a daily dosage of 1-3 grams of extract powder is often recommended. While side effects are rare, it’s important to be mindful of potential reactions like dry mouth, nausea, or diarrhea, especially when consumed in large quantities.