Cordyceps

botanical
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Cordyceps is a parasitic fungus that naturally grows on insect larvae in high-altitude regions like the Himalayas and Tibet. Cordyceps sinensis, now known as Ophiocordyceps sinensis, has been a central part of traditional Chinese and Tibetan medicine for centuries, valued for its wide range of potential health benefits. Its unusual life cycle gives it the common name “caterpillar fungus.” Bioactive compounds like cordycepin, adenosine, polysaccharides, and ergosterol are believed to contribute to its adaptogenic role, helping the body manage various stressors. These components may support cellular energy production, antioxidant pathways, and immune system modulation, which contributes to overall physiological resilience. Research explores its potential to support athletic performance, respiratory health, and kidney function, as well as its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. It is available in various forms such as capsules, powders, and extracts, often standardized to ensure consistent levels of active compounds for those seeking physical stamina and vitality.

Natural sources
High-altitude regions of the Himalayas, Tibet, China, Nepal, and Bhutan (parasitic on insect larvae)Cultivated Cordyceps (often *Cordyceps militaris*)

Ingredient forms

No public comparison lists found.

Timing & Intake
AnytimeWith foodTake with It is often suggested to take Cordyceps with a meal for better absorption and to reduce potential stomach discomfort.
Consistent use is recommended for observing benefits. Some individuals prefer taking it in the morning or before physical activity to support energy levels.
Optimal Dosage
Minimum1000 mg
Maximum3000 mg
Safety & Toxicity
4 safety notes
  • Individuals with autoimmune diseases should use with caution or consult a healthcare professional, as Cordyceps may stimulate the immune system.
  • People with bleeding disorders or those scheduled for surgery should avoid Cordyceps due to its potential mild anticoagulant effects.
  • Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid use due to insufficient safety data.
  • Diabetics should monitor blood sugar levels closely, as Cordyceps may lower blood sugar.
Goals
Productivity Boost
Productivity Boost
Impact
High effect
Typical dose:500–3000 mg
Cordyceps mushroom is known to improve the body's production of ATP, the primary energy molecule. This enhancement in cellular energy and improved oxygen efficiency directly combats mental fatigue, supporting sustained cognitive effort and endurance during demanding work.

Study evidence

1 study

Cordyceps has shown a preliminary signal for faster reaction times around strenuous exercise in young men. The supplied evidence does not establish a productivity benefit, because workplace performance, sustained concentration and everyday task completion were not assessed.

View goal
Productivity Boost
Productivity Boost
Impact
High effect
Typical dose:500–3000 mg
Cordyceps mushroom is known to improve the body's production of ATP, the primary energy molecule. This enhancement in cellular energy and improved oxygen efficiency directly combats mental fatigue, supporting sustained cognitive effort and endurance during demanding work.

Study evidence

1 study

Cordyceps has shown a preliminary signal for faster reaction times around strenuous exercise in young men. The supplied evidence does not establish a productivity benefit, because workplace performance, sustained concentration and everyday task completion were not assessed.

View goal
Productivity Boost
Productivity Boost
Impact
High effect
Typical dose:500–3000 mg
Cordyceps mushroom is known to improve the body's production of ATP, the primary energy molecule. This enhancement in cellular energy and improved oxygen efficiency directly combats mental fatigue, supporting sustained cognitive effort and endurance during demanding work.

Study evidence

1 study

Cordyceps has shown a preliminary signal for faster reaction times around strenuous exercise in young men. The supplied evidence does not establish a productivity benefit, because workplace performance, sustained concentration and everyday task completion were not assessed.

View goal
Immunity
Immunity
Impact
Moderate effect
Typical dose:1000–3000 mg
Cordyceps contains polysaccharides and other compounds that can enhance the activity of macrophages and natural killer cells, key components of the innate immune system. It also supports oxygen utilization and energy production, which can be beneficial during recovery from illness.

Study evidence

9 studies

Cordyceps preparations can change immune-cell activity and inflammatory signals in humans, but these laboratory effects do not establish fewer everyday infections. Evidence from cancer and transplant care involves specialized treatment settings, so it cannot be generalized to immune protection in healthy people.

View goal
Energy
Energy
Impact
Situational effect
Typical dose:1000–3000 mg
Traditionally used to combat fatigue and improve vitality, Cordyceps is popular among athletes for boosting endurance and aerobic capacity. Research suggests it may increase the body's production of ATP, making more energy available to the muscles.

Study evidence

2 studies

Cordyceps may improve aspects of exercise endurance, based on research in athletes and healthy older adults. The available evidence concerns exercise performance rather than everyday energy, and improvements are not consistent across all measures of aerobic capacity.

View goal
Testosterone Support
Testosterone Support
Impact
Situational effect
Typical dose:1000–3000 mg
Animal studies show Cordyceps can stimulate testosterone production, possibly by mimicking the action of Luteinizing Hormone (LH) on Leydig cells. As an adaptogen, it may also help modulate the body's stress response, creating a more favorable environment for hormone production.

Study evidence

No published studies for this goal yet.

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Studies

Research connections will load here.
Interactions

Positive Interactions

Green Tea
May offer synergistic antioxidant and immune-modulating effects.
Ashwagandha
Both are adaptogens; may enhance stress resistance and overall vitality when combined.
Rhodiola
Both are adaptogens; can complement each other to improve stress response and endurance.
Coenzyme Q-10
Both support cellular energy production, potentially enhancing athletic performance and vitality.
Vitamin C
Can enhance immune support and antioxidant benefits when combined with Cordyceps.
Zinc
May offer synergistic immune support when taken with Cordyceps.
Selenium
Provides synergistic antioxidant and immune support when combined.
Hericium mushroom
Combining different medicinal mushrooms can offer a broader spectrum of health benefits, including immune and cognitive support.
Curcumin
Both possess anti-inflammatory properties, potentially enhancing overall anti-inflammatory effects.
Turmeric
Both possess anti-inflammatory properties, potentially enhancing overall anti-inflammatory effects.

Negative Interactions

Omega-3
Cordyceps may have mild anticoagulant effects, which could be additive with the blood-thinning properties of Omega-3s, theoretically increasing bleeding risk.
Fish Oil
Cordyceps may have mild anticoagulant effects, which could be additive with the blood-thinning properties of Fish Oil, theoretically increasing bleeding risk.
EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid)
Cordyceps may have mild anticoagulant effects, which could be additive with the blood-thinning properties of EPA, theoretically increasing bleeding risk.
DHA
Cordyceps may have mild anticoagulant effects, which could be additive with the blood-thinning properties of DHA, theoretically increasing bleeding risk.
Ginkgo
Both Ginkgo and Cordyceps are noted for mild anticoagulant effects; combining them could theoretically increase the risk of bleeding.
Sources

Up to five highest-ranked published examples per goal. Study counts and charts include all published studies for the connection.

  1. Acute Cordyceps militaris supplementation and elevated resting oxygen uptake with faster reaction times: A randomized crossover trial
    Hamidreza Farzan, Maryam Koushkie Jahromi · PLOS ONE · 2026
    Randomized trial12 participantsProductivity Boost
  2. Adjuvant treatment with Cordyceps sinensis for lung cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.
    Wang C; Wang J; Qi Y · Journal of ethnopharmacology · 2024
    Meta-analysis928 participants12 studies pooledImmunity
  3. Regulation of human cytokines by Cordyceps militaris.
    Sun Y; Shao Y; Zhang Z; Wang L; Mariga AM; Pang G; Geng C; Ho CT; Hu Q; Zhao L · Journal of food and drug analysis · 2022
    Clinical trialImmunity
  4. Effects of Bailing capsules for renal transplant recipients: a retrospective clinical study.
    Wang W; Zhang XN; Yin H; Li XB; Hu XP; Liu H; Wang Y; Zhang XD · Chinese medical journal · 2013
    Cohort study180 participantsImmunity
  5. [Effect of Cordyceps sinensis on the Th1/Th2 cytokines in patients with Condyloma Acuminatum].
    Gao Q; Wu G; He D · Zhong yao cai = Zhongyaocai = Journal of Chinese medicinal materials · 2004
    Non-randomized trial63 participantsImmunity
  6. Immunomodulatory effects of a mycelium extract of Cordyceps (Paecilomyces hepiali; CBG-CS-2): a randomized and double-blind clinical trial.
    Jung SJ; Jung ES; Choi EK; Sin HS; Ha KC; Chae SW · BMC complementary and alternative medicine · 2019
    Randomized trial79 participantsImmunity
  7. Effects of fungal supplementation on endurance, immune function, and hematological profiles in adult athletes: a systematic review and meta-analysis
    Meng-Yuan Shu, Xiu-Chang Zhang, Li Zuo, Fang-Lin Jiang, Jian Liang, Fang Li · Frontiers in Nutrition · 2025
    Meta-analysis34 participants2 studies pooledEnergy
  8. Effect of Cs-4 (Cordyceps sinensis) on exercise performance in healthy older subjects: a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial
    Steve Chen, Zhaoping Li, Robert Krochmal, Marlon Abrazado, Woosong Kim, Christopher B Cooper · Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine · 2010
    Randomized trialEnergy