Cordyceps
Cordyceps is a popular medicinal mushroom that has traditionally been consumed in China for centuries. It is now becoming popular in the western market, praised for its abilities to improve athletic performance, energy levels, respiratory health, and overall physical capabilities. On top of these benefits, studies suggest it has beneficial effects on immune function, and may help fight infections. Lastly, there is also evidence to suggest it may help in the treatment of various cancers.
There are two main cordyceps that have been researched for therapeutic purposes
Cordyceps militaris
This is the most commonly used in supplements. It is cultivated around the world and easily recognized by its bright orange color.
Ophiocordyceps sinensis
This is the version traditionally used in China. It is prohibitively expensive for most consumers, as it is not cultivated and must be wild harvested.
Photo by Bibekkunwar7
Photo by Mario Biondi
The story begins with the “Caterpillar Fungus”
For centuries, the prized Ophiocordyceps sinensis has held a revered place in traditional Chinese medicine. It is known as the “Caterpillar Fungus,” due to its unique parasitic relationship with caterpillars in the high-altitude plateaus of the Himalayas. Its rarity and potent properties have positioned it as one of the world’s most expensive natural products, surpassing even saffron and black truffles in value. A kilogram of Ophiocordyceps sinensis can surpass 20,000 USD
The scarcity of Ophiocordyceps sinensis stems from its dependence on wild harvesting in its remote Himalayan habitat. While cultivation methods are being explored, they remain largely experimental. Much of the research conducted on Ophiocordyceps sinensis focuses on a cultivated form known as CS-4. Derived from an isolated culture of Ophiocordyceps sinensis it is grown in a liquid medium, allowing for a more accessible and sustainable avenue for scientific exploration.
You can learn more about CS-4 here.
Cordyceps militaris
Cordyceps militaris has become the prominent species for commercial cordyceps supplements. Its widespread cultivation allows for significantly lower costs compared to its wild counterpart, Ophiocordyceps sinensis. Despite this affordability, Cordyceps militaris often demonstrates comparable or even superior levels of bioactive compounds and therapeutic effects. This species is easily recognized by its vibrant orange hue, evident in its fruiting bodies, extracts, and tinctures.
While more accessible than wild cordyceps, Cordyceps militaris remains a premium product compared to other cultivated mushrooms. It’s important for consumers to be aware of the varying grades of Cordyceps militaris, particularly in Asian markets where it is also consumed as a food. “Food-grade” Cordyceps undergoes a preliminary extraction, diminishing its potency compared to supplements specifically cultivated for therapeutic use.
How Does Cordyceps Work?
Cordyceps mushrooms are renowned for their bioactive compounds, primarily adenosine and cordycepin. While adenosine is characteristic of Ophiocordyceps sinensis, Cordyceps militaris predominantly contains cordycepin, a closely related analog. However, it’s important to note that Cordyceps militaris also contains certain forms and quantities of adenosine.
Beyond these key compounds, a complex array of other bioactive constituents likely contribute to the therapeutic effects of cordyceps. The concentration of these compounds can vary significantly depending on several factors, including the specific strain cultivated, cultivation methods employed, storage conditions, extraction processes, and other variables. This inherent variability underscores the importance of careful sourcing and quality control in cordyceps products.
Adenosine
Adenosine is a nucleoside that serves as a building block for essential molecules like ATP and cyclic AMP, playing a central role in energy transfer, cellular signaling, and numerous physiological processes
Cordycepin
Cordycepin is very similar in structure to adenosine. Its effects are largely attributed to its interaction with various enzymes and receptors in the body, particularly those involved in adenosine metabolism and signaling.
Other Important Compounds
BETA-GLUCANS
These complex sugars are abundant in Cordyceps and contribute significantly to its immunomodulatory, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects.
ERGOSTEROL
This sterol is a precursor to vitamin D2 and possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. It’s a major component of Cordyceps and may contribute to its overall health benefits.
CORDYCEPIC ACID
This sugar alcohol exhibits antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and diuretic properties. It may play a role in Cordyceps’ ability to protect against cellular damage and promote fluid balance.
Hydroxyethyl adenosine
This adenosine analog exhibits anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, and neuroprotective effects.
Cordyceps Clinical Trials
Clinical trials have explored the potential of Cordyceps to enhance various aspects of human health. Studies indicate that Cordyceps may improve aerobic capacity, exercise performance, and respiratory function in both healthy elderly individuals and athletes. Promising results have also been observed in its ability to enhance immune function, support liver health, and alleviate symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
Furthermore, some research suggests potential therapeutic applications for Cordyceps in conditions such as asthma, COVID-19, and insomnia, although further investigation is needed to confirm these findings. The diverse preparations and active compounds within Cordyceps contribute to its wide-ranging effects, warranting continued research to fully elucidate its mechanisms of action and optimize its therapeutic use.
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