As the new year unfolds, many of us are focused on setting and achieving personal goals. In the quest for improved well-being, mushrooms – both culinary varieties and functional extracts – emerge as unsung heroes. Their unique properties and health benefits align seamlessly with the top five resolutions of 2024, as outlined in Forbes' "New Year’s Resolutions Statistics 2024" article.
According to the Forbes 2023 survey of 1000 Americans, the following resolutions were the top 5 most common responses:
Let's delve deeper into the science behind how mushrooms can support these aspirations.
Cordyceps, a mushroom revered in traditional medicine, has garnered attention in the fitness world. Studies reveal that the cordyceps mushroom makes for an ideal pre- and post-workout supplement: It enhances aerobic capacity, delays fatigue, and improves endurance by influencing the body’s exercise utilization of oxygen and energy production [1]. This is attributed to its ability to increase adenosine triphosphate (ATP) levels, the primary energy currency of the cell, thus providing extra energy for longer, more intense workouts [2]. Moreover, as an adaptogen, a good quality cordyceps supplement can help the body manage and adapt to stress. These properties help promote better recovery post-exercise by balancing muscle inflammation and oxidative stress [3].
In the context of financial wellness, culinary mushrooms offer an economical and nutritious alternative to meat. Economically, they are less costly to produce and purchase, helping consumers save money without compromising nutritional value. Nutritionally, mushrooms are rich in proteins, vitamins (especially B vitamins), minerals (like selenium, potassium, and copper), and antioxidants [4]. This makes them a nutrient-dense food choice that provides essential nutrients without the high costs associated with meat. Incorporating mushrooms into your recipes can help stretch the food budget while contributing to a balanced diet.
For mental health, reishi mushrooms and lion's mane are particularly noteworthy. Reishi, often termed as the "mushroom of immortality," is known for its calming properties. It contains triterpenes, which have been shown to induce sedation and decrease anxiety [7]. Studies suggest that a quality Reishi supplement can improve sleep quality by modulating the sleep-wake cycle, which is crucial for mental health and daily functioning [8].
Lion's mane has unique neuroprotective properties. It contains compounds like hericenones and erinacines that stimulate the growth of brain cells and can potentially improve cognitive function [5]. This mushroom has been linked to enhancing memory and brain function, which is crucial in the fast-paced, stress-inducing modern lifestyle [6]. A good quality lion’s mane supplement can be the key to enhancing your mental clarity.
Mushrooms are a low-calorie, high-volume food, meaning they provide a lot of food with few calories, making them ideal for weight loss. Their high fiber content promotes satiety, reduces food intake, and aids in digestion. Some mushroom varieties, like Ganoderma lucidum (reishi), have been studied for their potential to manage obesity. These mushrooms contain bioactive compounds that can alter fat metabolism and regulate the expression of genes related to obesity [9].
As mentioned in section 4, Reishi can also improve sleep quality and promote a calm mood.
In terms of dietary improvements, mushrooms are an excellent source of several key nutrients. They are one of the few non-animal sources of vitamin D, essential for bone health and immune function [10]. They also contain B vitamins, vital for various metabolic processes, including energy production. Additionally, the antioxidants present in mushrooms, like ergothioneine and selenium, help combat oxidative stress and promote a healthy inflammation response, contributing to overall wellness and longevity [11].
In summary, mushrooms, in their various forms, stand as powerful allies in achieving the common New Year’s resolutions of 2024. They are not just a means to an end but a sustainable, health-promoting choice that benefits both personal well-being and financial health. Whether you’re looking to boost your fitness regime, manage finances wisely, support mental health, lose weight, or improve your diet, mushrooms offer a versatile and effective solution for your journey toward personal growth and wellness.
Trouble staying focused and a bit of brain fog is something we all experience at some point. Thankfully, this downtrend in concentration, no matter the cause, need not be a permanent fixture in our lives.
There are organic supplements you can take to improve cognitive function and clear that mental haze naturally.
Today we review some of the best supplements for focus and concentration and highlight trusted brands in the space.
All the products we highlight ensure high efficacy because they use certified real mushroom extracts and other exceptional natural ingredients known to have numerous benefits for brain health.
Other things we considered while compiling this list are that:
This is a potent supplement specially designed to deliver lion’s mane mushroom’s (Hericium erinaceus) natural goodness to support your brain health and cognitive function.
Lion’s mane mushroom is full of essential compounds, such as beta-glucans, immuno-modulating antioxidants, and neuroprotective phytonutrients—all essential for maintaining your brain health.
This is backed up by research showing that supplementation with lion’s mane mushroom and its extracts help promote Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) synthesis in nerve cells (1).
In adults with minor memory problems associated with aging, a study found that lion’s mane extract significantly improved brain function compared to participants who did not take the mushroom or its extracts (2).
However, to reap lion’s mane mushroom’s health-supporting benefits, you need the best quality lion’s mane extract. This is where Real Mushrooms’ Organic Lion's Mane Extract Capsules comes in. With:
It doesn’t get much better. But don’t take it from us.
“... From someone who doesn’t really expect much in supplements, I have to confess these were a huge surprise … I will be a fan of quality mushroom products for life.” - Romibee | ★★★★★
Buy Organic Lion’s Mane Extract Capsules
Related: Find the Best Lion’s Mane Supplement: The 4-Point Buying Guide
MycoRev™ Neuro consists of a complex combination of high-quality extracts to boost brain function, including lion’s mane, turmeric rhizome, buckwheat leaf, and freeze-dried bovine brain.
Each ingredient was specially selected for its synergistic neurological health-supporting benefits. But for clarity, let’s briefly examine the specific benefits these ingredients bring to the table.
CurQfen® is enriched with soluble fenugreek seed fiber to improve its bioavailability. In turn, it's able to better supply free curcuminoids to your blood plasma and improve the blood-to-brain barrier permeability, improving cognitive functions (4).
This is supported by research and clinical trials, which have confirmed the mushroom's health-supporting qualities, especially in improving cognitive function, focus, and concentration (3).
Note: MycoRev™ Neuro is made from 100% real lion’s mane mushroom (from the fruiting body) and herbs. No fillers. No binders. No additives.
Cordyceps is yet another supplement from Real Mushrooms that’s specially formulated to deliver the goodness of real organic cordyceps.
Cordyceps mushrooms contain several beneficial bioactive compounds that provide a range of health-supporting benefits, most notably improving focus and concentration.
Cordyceps mushrooms are also known for their ability to support the immune system and are considered biomolecular immunomodulators. They help the body adapt better to immune threats—a key factor in supporting respiratory health (5).
Like all other Real Mushrooms supplements, Organic Cordyceps Extract Capsules follow strict guidelines to ensure the best quality. These include:
At Real Mushrooms, we use Cordyceps militaris in our supplement. While there are over 400 varieties of cordyceps mushrooms, the two most common for therapeutic use are:
Cordyceps sinensis is a health-supporting functional mushroom whose use can be traced back to traditional Chinese medicine. It’s the more commonly advertised Cordyceps mushroom in supplements.
However, it is rare, highly sought after, and very expensive. As such, some supplements that claim to contain Cordyceps sinensis also contain fillers and often use mycelium instead of the fruiting body to cut costs.
This significantly impacts efficacy and limits your ability to reap the benefits of Cordyceps mushrooms.
On the other hand, Cordyceps militaris provides all the goodness of sinensis (and more) but at a fraction of the cost. Additionally, Cordyceps militaris has been shown to contain up to 90 times more cordycepin than the sinensis variety (6).
Expert Tip: The Cordyceps militaris produced in North America is mainly myceliated grain. Pure mushroom extract almost exclusively comes from Asia, with China accounting for over 90% of the global supply. This is why we source our mushrooms from Asia.
Related: Cordyceps Sinensis vs. Militaris: What’s the Best Cordyceps Supplement?
Neurofuel™ contains an advanced blend of 100% natural focus supplements designed to enhance focus and improve memory.
It works as fuel for your neurotransmitters by supporting better signaling between your brain cells. It also provides your body with the ingredients it needs to power Long Term Potentiation (LTP) processes.
When LTP is enhanced, you experience increased alertness, curiosity, and creativity.
As such, Neurofuel™ users often report:
“Of the countless nootropics I’ve tried over the years, I always come back to Neurofuel™. I have my best, most productive work days when I start my day with this!” - Kimi | ★★★★★
The key ingredients in Neurofuel™ that give it its cognitive and brain health-supporting qualities include:
Buy Natural Stacks’ Neurofuel™
Real Clarity is a powerhouse supplement for improving focus, concentration, and overall brain function by leveraging the goodness of real organic mushrooms and herbs.
Real Clarity can achieve this through a blend of four health-supporting natural ingredients, all of which are essential in promoting your brain health. These are:
For instance, Ashwagandha is known to support brain health and cognitive function, and its benefits include (12):
This is supported by findings from a study where participants who took Ashwagandha supplements noticed improvements in cognitive functions in all areas (13).
These benefits were particularly noticeable in skills relating to concentration and the capacity to focus.
Rhodiola also shows mild stimulating effects, which help improve focus.
Indeed, one study showed that participants with chronic fatigue experienced an improvement in concentration after taking Rhodiola supplements (9).
This is supported by research proving that Bacopa contains potent brain-health-supporting benefits and can even protect against Alzheimer’s disease (10).
Bacopa is also considered an adaptogen thanks to its ability to help alleviate stress and anxiety by lowering cortisol levels. This also has the benefit of helping improve your focus and concentration (11).
Related: Medicinal Mushrooms: 7 Kinds and Their Unique Health Benefits
At Real Mushrooms, our goal is simple. We are driven by the desire to deliver the best functional mushroom extracts in their purest form. No filler. No additives.
To this end, we employ decades of expertise to tailor our extraction method for each mushroom we use to attain peak potency in our supplements.
Additionally, all Real Mushrooms' products are tested multiple times during production at accredited third-party facilities to ensure they are free from agricultural chemicals and other contaminants.
We also screen for heavy metals to guarantee that our products exceed the heavy metal standards set by the FDA and Health Canada.
This is how we guarantee all the therapeutic properties in our products and ensure you can enjoy high-quality supplements you’re confident in.
Visit our online store today to explore our collection of organic supplements to enhance your life. You can also check out our blog for more information about our ingredients and their numerous health-supporting benefits.
As the popularity of mushrooms as functional foods skyrockets in the world of holistic health, cat parents can't help but ask, "Can cats eat mushrooms?" As experts on the subject, let's unravel this question.
Mushrooms are complex, highly adaptive organisms with properties that can target various bodily functions. They're rich in immune-stimulating compounds that have been instrumental throughout evolution, allowing animals to fend off pathogens. When mushrooms are consumed, they trigger an "alert" in the immune system, primarily through bioactive compounds such as beta-glucans.
In other words, mushrooms can be likened to the first light of dawn that wakes up a nocturnal bird, preparing it for the day's activities. Consuming functional mushrooms such as turkey tail, reishi, lion's mane, and cordyceps sends a similar "rise and shine" command to your cat's body. The signal is not of an impending threat but rather an encouragement for alertness, thereby strengthening your feline companion's immune system.
To fully grasp whether cats can eat mushrooms, it's crucial to understand the four mushroom categories:
While some mushrooms fall into multiple categories, this article focuses on culinary (edible) mushrooms and functional (medicinal) mushrooms.
Safe, culinary mushrooms can be an excellent addition to your cat's diet.
However, it's important to steer clear of wild mushrooms because they can be toxic.
However, store-bought varieties of mushrooms, when well cooked, can be safely added to your cat’s diet. A note of caution: mushrooms should not be fed to animals uncooked and raw. They are difficult to digest when uncooked due to their high fiber content
Culinary mushrooms, like oyster, shiitake, and lion’s mane mushrooms, pack a nutritional punch. They're teeming with proteins, fiber, selenium, B vitamins, vitamins and polyunsaturated fatty acids. Plus, mushrooms can be an abundant source of vitamin D2 when exposed to UVB light. They also house unique antioxidants that help with longevity, like ergothioneine and glutathione.
To unlock these benefits for your cat, cooking them well is key. All mushrooms contain chitin, a component that can hinder digestibility but also serves as dietary fiber. Cooking mushrooms breaks down chitin, increasing the bioavailability of crucial immunomodulatory compounds like beta-glucans.
So, for the question, “Can cats eat mushrooms?” the answer is YES, with some qualifications — Cooked, store-bought culinary mushrooms can be safely added to your cat's diet. Start with small portions and always ensure they're well-cooked to enhance their digestibility.
Chopping up the mushroom into small little pieces improves their digestibility and allows them to be thoroughly cooked which will release their many bioactive compounds to benefit your cat’s health.
Some functional mushrooms can act as adaptogens when ingested. Adaptogens help the body adapt to physical and emotional stress over the long term, increasing attention, endurance, and overall body function.
Adding to the fascinating array of information on how mushrooms contribute to a cat's overall health, let's dive deeper into the beneficial effects of two mushrooms in particular: Cordyceps and Lion's Mane. Furthermore, we will explore how to identify quality mushroom supplements in the market and the best ways to introduce these supplements into your cat's diet.
Cordyceps, a type of fungus, has remarkable benefits for cats, which should not be surprising considering that it's closely related to some of the tastiest edible mushrooms, such as truffles and morels. Its palatable taste makes it an appealing supplement for our feline friends who can be quite selective when it comes to food.
Cordyceps checks the boxes when it comes to feline health. Whether your cat is young or old, this mushroom can offer considerable support.
An alarming number of cats are prone to develop kidney disease, a condition that can sometimes be fatal. Studies in various species have shown that Cordyceps can effectively support kidney function and protect these organs from toxins, including certain antibiotics and immunosuppressive drugs (1).
This mushroom isn't just beneficial for the kidneys; it also plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy glucose levels. Just like humans, cats can develop Type 2 Diabetes, often associated with a diet rich in carbohydrates. Cordyceps helps control blood glucose levels, thanks to its special polysaccharides. It also normalizes the body's insulin production, further supporting healthy blood sugar levels (2).
Cordyceps also has an impressive effect on the respiratory system, potentially benefiting cats with bronchial asthma. It aids in maintaining healthy pulmonary function, thus promoting proper respiration (3). In addition to its lung-boosting properties, Cordyceps also offers heart health benefits (4).
Most cats would do well with an eighth of a teaspoon of pure cordyceps mushroom extract powder, mixed into their food once or twice daily.
Lion’s Mane, scientifically known as Hericium erinaceus, is a mushroom that has been traditionally used in Eastern medicine for its multiple health benefits, particularly for cognitive function and gut health. With increasing interest in natural remedies for pet health, Lion’s Mane has emerged as a key supplement of interest for cat owners, offering potential benefits similar to those found in dogs.
Similar to dogs, cats are susceptible to cognitive dysfunction as they age, a condition akin to Alzheimer's in humans. An estimated 36% of cats aged between 11 and 21 show signs of dementia (5).
Human clinical trials have shown that lion’s mane mushroom can support brain function and cognition in people with mild dementia and/or memory loss (6,7). Studies on this unique functional mushroom have discovered that it supports cognition by stimulating neurogenesis, the process of forming new neurons (9, 10).
Even though rigorous clinical studies in cats have yet to be conducted, there's anecdotal evidence suggesting its positive impact.
For instance, testimonials from pet parents, as shared by Real Mushrooms’ Registered Veterinary Technician, Joni Kamlet, have reported improvements in older dogs exhibiting signs of dementia, including being more attentive, finding their way around familiar surroundings, and initiating play. Given the physiological similarities between dogs and cats, it’s plausible to speculate that lion's mane could provide similar benefits to felines, potentially improving their cognitive function and mitigating signs of feline cognitive dysfunction.
Beyond cognitive benefits, Lion’s Mane could also offer cats support for their gut health, mood, and immune system. Traditionally used in China and Japan to support gut health, nervous system weakness, and even wound healing, this mushroom has also the potential to promote a healthy inflammatory response.
Furthermore, human clinical studies have suggested lion's mane's potential role in mitigating anxiety and depression. These mood-supporting benefits could potentially be translated to cats, helping to manage behavior issues and promoting overall well-being.
Moreover, lion's mane can help regulate the immune system. Considering that cats, like all pets, can suffer from various immune-related issues, lion’s mane could provide additional support in bolstering their immune health.
To support the mind, immunity, and digestive health of your aging cat, consider mixing an eighth of a teaspoon of pure lion’s mane mushroom extract powder into their food once or twice daily.
For pet parents considering introducing lion’s mane or cordyceps supplements to their cat's diet, it's advisable to use a concentrated mushroom powder extract. Real Mushrooms offers pet products that are pre-measured for animal dosing, making them easy to administer.
Cats are notoriously picky eaters, making the introduction of new supplements a bit of a challenge. Luckily, lion's mane and cordyceps extract powders are fairly bland tasting and can easily blend into your cat's favorite dishes without causing too much of a taste disturbance.
Mushroom extract powders, such as those from Lion's Mane and Cordyceps, might be easier for cats to accept when mixed into their food. These can easily blend into your cat's favorite dishes without causing too much of a taste disturbance.
Remember that patience and persistence are key when introducing new supplements to your cat's diet. Here’s a good tip from Real Mushrooms’ Registered Veterinary Technician, Joni Kamlet about introducing new supplements to picky or cautious kitties:
It's important to note that while lion’s mane and cordyceps appear to be safe for cats, more research is needed to fully understand its impact and optimal dosing for feline health. Always consult with your veterinarian before starting any new supplementation regimen.
When it comes to choosing a mushroom supplement for your cat, it's important to prioritize quality. Look for supplements that are organic, and free from additives, pesticides, or fillers. Products that have been tested by third-party labs for purity and potency can also offer an additional layer of reassurance.
When looking to get the most medicinal value for your money, ensure you are buying a supplement that uses 100% mushrooms and not mycelium grown on grain. You can get more specific information about picking a quality mushroom product for your pet in the following articles:
As we continue to explore the potential of functional mushrooms, it's encouraging to see the possibilities they offer for enhancing our pets' health and quality of life. Whether for cognitive support, gut health, revitalization, or general wellness, they could be a valuable addition to your feline friend's wellness regimen.
This flatbread recipe combines wholesome ingredients with the health benefits of Cordyceps mushrooms, creating a decadent yet nutritious meal that is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Whether you’re looking for a savory appetizer, a light meal, or a dish to impress your dinner guests, this Cordyceps mushroom and caramelized onion flatbread recipe is sure to tick all the right boxes. Bonus: it also ticks the multi-benefit health box too!
The combination of earthy mushrooms, sweet onions, and tangy goat cheese on crispy flatbread is a flavor explosion. And, when you throw in Cordyceps’ ability to enhance energy, improve respiration, and support the immune system, you have one powerful and tasty meal.
Cordyceps mushrooms have been used for centuries in Traditional Chinese Medicine to address a variety of ailments, to strengthen the lungs and kidneys, and to improve a person’s vitality.
Today, Cordyceps mushrooms are gaining popularity in the Western world for their many health benefits (and their fictitious role in a video game/tv series).
Learn more about the abundant benefits of Cordyceps mushrooms here.
From Traditional Chinese Medicine all the way to your kitchen, you can now enjoy all those benefits when you whip up this delicious flatbread!
Cordyceps' taste can vary depending on how it is prepared and what it is prepared with. Some have described it as having an earthy and nutty flavor, with a hint of umami. It pairs excellently with the goat cheese, caramelized onions, and balsamic vinegar found in this recipe.
In general, fresh Cordyceps have a more mild, earthy flavor, similar to other mushrooms, and dried Cordyceps have a slightly stronger flavor.
When consumed in a powder extract form, the taste is very mild and easily masked by other ingredients, making it a great addition to soups, stews, and pre-workout smoothies!
For an in-depth shopping guide, take a look here. The gist is:
Dried Cordyceps mushrooms are incredibly easy to cook. We suggest poaching them for this recipe. For a detailed run down, you can take a look at this article.
The basics of poaching dried Cordyceps:
And that’s it! As we said, easy!
Keeping with the theme of ease, this whole recipe requires just a few ingredients and can be done in a short amount of time. The most time-consuming part is caramelizing the onions - everything else can be done in under 20 minutes! However, we guarantee you the effort of doing a slow, proper caramelization of your onions will bring you outstanding flavor. It will make this dish restaurant-worthy.
Here are the basics:
The longest part of this recipe is cooking the onions because you want them to really caramelize. The wait is worth it though because your guests and your taste buds will be crediting you with culinary praise, thinking you slaved for hours over the recipe.
If you’re looking for an easy and satisfying way to incorporate the benefits of Cordyceps mushrooms into your diet, this flatbread is for you! Whether you’re looking for a boost in energy, endurance, or immunity, or simply trying to maintain a healthy lifestyle, this Cordyceps flatbread is a wonderful choice.
So invite some friends over, throw a dinner party, or just treat yourself to a true culinary delight and give this recipe a try!
If you're looking for a new way to use mushrooms in your cooking, look no further than Cordyceps. This medicinal mushroom is gaining popularity in the culinary world for its earthy flavor and wide range of health benefits. Eating Cordyceps mushrooms, a.k.a. caterpillar mushrooms, is one way to bring diversity and color into your everyday meals. The unique nutritional profile of this mushroom also makes it a winner for the health-conscious foodie.
Cooking Cordyceps is easy, and there are endless possibilities for recipes. We'll show you the simplest way to prepare Cordyceps mushrooms so you can enjoy their delicious flavor and health benefits any time you want.
When shopping for cordyceps mushrooms, you might notice there are two main varieties: Cordyceps sinensis and Cordyceps militaris.
The first, Cordyceps sinensis a.k.a Himalayan gold, is a functional mushroom that grows in very few regions of the world. Additionally, Cordyceps sinensis only grows on the caterpillar of one very specific moth. Given such precise growing circumstances, it has become so rare and sought after that the price tag is out of reach for most people (around $20,000 per kilogram!). Its alternative name clearly rings true as Cordyceps sinensis is the most expensive mushroom in the world - gold indeed!
The good news is Cordyceps militaris is a wonderful and very affordable alternative. It can be commercially cultivated on brown rice or wood substrate. This makes the Cordyceps mushroom more readily available for the average consumer, and it provides the same kind of healthy compounds as the sinensis variety. In fact, Cordyceps militaris contains even higher concentrations of the key health-supporting compound, cordycepin (which will be discussed later in the article). Good news for our bodies and our wallets!
A few helpful hints for your shopping excursions:
Now that you know what you’re looking for and where to buy it, why would you even want to include Cordyceps in your diet in the first place? What health benefits do Cordyceps mushrooms have? And the all-important question, do they taste good?
If you like an earthy and nutty flavor, with a hint of umami, then the answer is yes, Cordyceps mushrooms do taste good! And if you’ve been looking for a new culinary ingredient with an abundance of health benefits, then eating Cordyceps is for you!
Pleasant taste and positive health support are two huge reasons to give this mushroom a try. But, if you’re not quite convinced yet, let’s dive further into the benefits of Cordyceps militaris from its nutraceutical standpoint.
First things first, what does “nutraceutical” mean? The word was first introduced by DeFelice who combined the two words “nutrition” and “pharmaceutical” and defined it as “food or a part of food which not only impart health benefits but also contributes in preventing or treating various diseases.” To sum it up, nutraceuticals are components found in food that play an important role in maintaining your normal physiological function and well-being (1, 2). They’re the good stuff you want, and cordyceps has plenty of them!
In fact, Cordyceps is full of nucleosides, polysaccharides, sterols, proteins, amino acids, polypeptides, and vitamins. And if you’re scratching your head trying to figure out what that means for your body and health, this table breaks it down for you.
As you can see from the table, there are various bioactive components found in Cordyceps, and they all have great therapeutic effects. Out of all of them, though, cordycepin is considered to be the most vital.
Cordyceps have a wide range of therapeutic potential. Studies have shown that Cordyceps mushrooms can support your health in the following ways (3, 4, 7):
Talk about a small-sized mushroom with big talents!
On the nutritional side, Cordyceps militaris contains vitamins B1, B2, B12, E, and K. And that’s not all - it is abundant with proteins, fats, essential amino acids, volatile oils, carotenoids, phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and minerals (Fe, Ca, Mg, Ni, Sr, Na, Ti, Pi, Se, Mn, Zn, Al, Si, K, Cr, Ga, V and Zr). Finally, Cordyceps militaris has different types of healthy carbohydrates like monosaccharides, oligosaccharides, sterols, nucleosides, and polysaccharides like beta-glucans, (3, 9, 5, 8, 6).
Vitamins, check. Minerals, check. A nutritional powerhouse, check. Something you probably want to include in your diet, check check!
Now that you know how beneficial this mushroom is for you, you’ll want to discover ways to use it. The great news is, Cordyceps is easily prepared and can be added to many recipes to boost both the taste and nutritional profile. To show you just how easy, here’s a basic rundown of how to cook dried Cordyceps:
Once you’ve got the basics of cooking Cordyceps down, you can move on to the fun part - finding your favorite food combinations with it. The delicious taste and versatility of Cordyceps mushrooms make them an easy addition to numerous meals.
If you need some help getting the creative juices going, consider adding cordyceps to these dishes:
Make your favorite version of the dishes and throw some Cordyceps in it. In all cases, try to cook the Cordyceps just until they soften. Otherwise, overcooking these mushrooms will turn them rubbery and will make eating Cordyceps a less pleasant experience.
Although cooking Cordyceps is incredibly simple, there’s an even easier route; one where you can get all those health benefits on a daily basis - without turning on the stove at all. Enter Cordyceps supplements.
You can find Cordyceps supplements in capsule form or as a powder. You can add the powder to your favorite tea, coffee, or hot chocolate. Or sprinkle it on top of salads, eggs, soups, stir frys, your favorite dishes, etc. There’s truly no limit to what you can do with Cordyceps extracts.
If you’re looking for other creative ways to easily add Cordyceps extract powder to your snacks and drinks, check out this article.
Whether you decide to get creative in the kitchen and whip up some culinary masterpiece with Cordyceps mushrooms, toss some on your favorite dish you’re already cooking, or you go the supplement route - one thing is sure: you can’t go wrong with eating Cordyceps!
1. Ahmad F., Ashraf S.A., Ahmad F.A., Ansari J.A., Siddiquee R.A. Nutraceutical Market and its Regulation. Am. J. Food Technol. 2011;6:342–347. doi: 10.3923/ajft.2011.342.347.
2. Ashraf S.A., Adnan M., Patel M., Siddiqui A.J., Sachidanandan M., Snoussi M., Hadi S. Fish-based Bioactives as Potent Nutraceuticals: Exploring the Therapeutic Perspective of Sustainable Food from the Sea. Mar. Drugs. 2020;18:265. doi: 10.3390/md18050265.
3. Elkhateeb W.A., Daba G.M., Thomas P.W., Wen T.C. Medicinal mushrooms as a new source of natural therapeutic bioactive compounds. Egypt. Pharm. J. 2019;18:88–101.
4. Bawadekji A., Al Ali K., Al Ali M. A Review of the Bioactive Compound and Medicinal Value of Cordyceps militaris. J. North Basic Appl. Sci. (JNBAS) 2016;1:69–76. doi: 10.12816/0021378.
5. Hur H. Chemical Ingredients of Cordyceps militaris. Mycobiology. 2008;36:233–235. doi: 10.4489/MYCO.2008.36.4.233.
6. Li S., Li P., Ji H. RP-HPLC determination of ergosterol in natural and cultured Cordyceps. Chin. J. Mod. Appl. Pharm. 2011;18:297–299.
7. Wang D., Zhang Y., Lu J., Wang Y., Wang J., Meng Q., Lee R.J., Teng L. Cordycepin, a Natural Antineoplastic Agent, Induces Apoptosis of Breast Cancer Cells via Caspase-dependent Pathways. Nat. Prod. Commun. 2016;11:63–68. doi: 10.1177/1934578X1601100119.
8. Yang F.Q., Feng K., Zhao J., Li S.P. Analysis of sterols and fatty acids in natural and cultured Cordyceps by one-step derivatization followed with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. J. Pharm. Biomed. Anal. 2009;49:1172–1178. doi: 10.1016/j.jpba.2009.02.025. [PubMed] [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
9. Zhu J.S., Halpern G.M., Jones K. The scientific rediscovery of a precious ancient Chinese herbal regimen: Cordyceps sinensis: Part II. J. Altern. Complement. Med. 1998;4:429–457. doi: 10.1089/acm.1998.4.429. [PubMed] [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
Cordyceps are fascinating fungi. From how they take over caterpillars and other insects to their numerous health benefits and hefty price tag. It’s no surprise you’re curious about them.
To help bring clarity between the myth and the science behind this strange but helpful parasitic mushroom we’ve answered 30 questions on caterpillars with Cordyceps (a.k.a. Cordyceps sinensis). As you go through our list, you’ll learn:
The stalk-like, dark brown, fruiting body of Cordyceps (stroma), which grows out of a caterpillar head, is edible along with the non-fruiting body (sclerotium).
Cordyceps sinensis are a well-known herbal remedy in East Asia. They’re loaded with beneficial bioactive compounds such as cordycepin and adenosine.
The ground-dwelling caterpillars of ghost moths are prone to infection by Cordyceps sinensis.
These caterpillars mostly dwell just below the ground surface of shrublands and alpine grasslands; perfect environments for the fruiting Cordyceps fungus.
Most ghost moth caterpillars populate the shrublands and grasslands of the Tibetan plateau and Himalayas at an altitude of between 9,800 and 16,400 feet.
More specifically, these caterpillars are found in the mountainous regions of:
Cordyceps sinensis (a.k.a caterpillars with Cordyceps) are expensive because they’re notoriously hard to find and have high demand.
Their hard-to-find status is because they sprout only a few weeks a year—in the spring—which isn’t enough time to satisfy year-round, global demand. And, unlike other types of Cordyceps mushrooms which can grow out of a variety of insects, Cordyceps sinensis grows from only a single species of moth: the ghost moth.
Additionally, the natural habitat of these caterpillars—grasslands—keeps them hidden like needles in a haystack. Since no one has yet been able to figure out how to cultivate this kind of Cordyceps, they remain rare.
Ophiocordyceps sinensis is commonly referred to as the caterpillar fungus. It is an entomopathogenic fungus (a parasite of insects) that often infects the caterpillar of ghost moths.
It’s the wild Cordyceps species with a long history in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and the inspiration behind modern cultivated Cordyceps alternatives.
The relationship between caterpillars and Cordyceps fungus is purely parasitic and propagating to the fungus.
Cordyceps sinensis (a.k.a. caterpillar Cordyceps) may support your body in the following ways:
Caterpillars with Cordyceps (a.k.a. Cordyceps sinensis) are bright yellow when harvested with longitudinal ridges across their sclerotium (the non-fruiting body) with a thin blade-like mushroom protruding from its head.
The Cordyceps mushrooms are longer than the caterpillar’s body and dark brown when harvested but eventually darken when dry.
Harvesting Cordyceps sinensis is a communal practice that involves manually searching through large tracts of alpine grasslands for the protruding mushrooms popping out of the ground.
The practice is generally low-tech and occurs in the spring when the fungus emerges from the soil ready to infect more caterpillars.
Processing caterpillar Cordyceps involves the following methods:
Due to the high price tag, wild Cordyceps sinensis is typically bought as a gift and the majority of sales are within China.
Caterpillars with Cordyceps (a.k.a. Cordyceps sinensis) have no psychedelic properties. They are adaptogenic, meaning they support your body's resistance to stressors and promote normal physiological functioning.
For instance, they can help your body with oxidative stress, while promoting a healthy response to inflammation.
Caption: searching for the Himalayan viagra
In Traditional Chinese Medicine and much of the Himalayas region, Cordyceps sinensis mushrooms have long been used as natural aphrodisiacs for men and women, hence the name “Himalayan viagra”.
This practice persists to date supported by scientific studies. For instance, one study found caterpillars with Cordyceps to enhance libido by 66% (1).
Warming winters and declining snowfall are greatly impacting the population of the caterpillar mushroom (a.k.a. Cordyceps sinensis). Recently, China reported a drastic decline in yields due to global warming.
Meanwhile, across the Himalayas, a major source of the world’s caterpillar fungus, a 20%–40% reduction in snowfall is predicted. This will likely exacerbate the already dwindling numbers of caterpillar Cordyceps.
There are a variety of important nutritional components in Cordyceps sinensis (Hyun 2008; Yang et al. 2009, 2010; Li et al. 2011), including:
Cordyceps sinensis, the true caterpillar fungus, cannot be grown without the caterpillars. After many decades of trying to cultivate Cordyceps sinensis in China, only recently has this been accomplished by initially farming the ghost moth and then infecting it with Cordyceps sinensis mycelium.
Cordyceps militaris on the other hand, can be cultivated on conventional mushroom substrates without the need for its’ native insect host.
Caterpillar Cordyceps develop their mushroom (fruiting body) annually, in the spring. The following table highlights this process throughout the year.
The mushroom (fruiting body) of Cordyceps sinensis, which sprouts from the head of dead caterpillars, contains many biologically active compounds, for instance:
Out of these, beta-glucans and cordycepin are the primary active compounds and the most studied, with a wide range of biological activity.
Ghost moth caterpillars themselves are not endangered. However, the Cordyceps sinensis fungi that infect and grow out of the corpses of ghost moth caterpillars is an endangered species and highly restricted.
Their endangered status is down to over exploitation for use in traditional medicines, as well as an ever-changing climate in the wild harvesting regions.
While ghost moth caterpillars are prone to infection by Cordyceps sinenis, they aren’t the only victims.
Other species of Cordyceps also parasitizes the insect orders Hymenoptera, Hemiptera, and Coleoptera. The following table highlights the various features of these insect orders.
Caterpillars infected with Cordyceps contain carotenoids, which are responsible for their intense yellow-orange color.
Carotenoids are light-harvesting pigments produced by plants, algae, and fungi that double as antioxidants in humans. These pigments extend the spectral range over which photosynthesis can occur.
Carotenoids are also present in:
Commercially-available Cordyceps supplements are generally made exclusively from the cultivated Cordyceps of the species militaris. There are three reasons for this:
However, some commercial Cordyceps militaris supplements contain only the fungal mycelium, and not the mushroom. To receive adequate concentrations of the health-supporting compounds from Cordyceps, it is important that the supplement contains the actual mushroom.
Here’s one such supplement by Real Mushrooms that only features the mushroom of cultivated Cordyceps militaris. No added starch, mycelium, or grain of any kind ensures high amounts of bioactive compounds for maximum health benefits.
"These supplements helped me with cognitive and physical benefits. They are not mixed with fillers and have no weird taste." My Linh
Considering their endangered status, harvesting and trading of caterpillars with Cordyceps is highly restricted and outright banned in some countries such as India. Recently, India’s state of Sikkim acquired sniffer dogs to help enforce the ban.
These measures are in place to preserve the population of caterpillars with Cordyceps in the wild and prevent potential turf-related conflicts in countries such as Nepal.
Because all Cordyceps species parasitize insects, it can be difficult to artificially cultivate them.
While the Chinese have been trying to cultivate Cordyceps sinensis since the 1980s, only recently has there been success. Initial attempts at cultivating the mycelium via liquid fermentation has given rise to Cordyceps Cs-4 but the mushroom was never able to be reproduced at scale. This was until scientists added host moth into the equation. By farming the caterpillar and inoculating it with Cordyceps sinensis mycelium as well as simulating the cold mountainous environment, the caterpillar is able to produce the mushroom.
However, this process is still new and quite expensive so it has not reached mass scale yet.
The Cordyceps fungi that infect caterpillars are most productive under cold conditions and grow in areas with permafrost; a thick layer of soil that remains frozen throughout the year.
Such areas are mountainous regions with elevations of between 3,200 and 4,900 meters.
Many Cordyceps-harvesting countries have placed measures to try and curb the excessive exploitation of Cordyceps sinensis.
For instance, China is a major producer of Cordyceps militaris mushrooms, which can be cultivated without the use of insects. This is an amazing affordable alternative to the caterpillar fungus.
China is also cultivating Cordyceps sinensis but it still requires the host moth and the price tag is still quite high to capitalize on the high price of wild version.
The price tag of wild Cordyceps sinensis is still very high, which currently sits at over $20,000 per kilo.
The caterpillar Cordyceps trade has been both a blessing and a curse for the rural communities that inhabit the mountainous alpine grasslands in Asia―where the fungi grow.
On the one hand, the lucrative trade has provided a much-needed income source for these remote communities.
On the other, the Cordyceps trade is a major source of conflicts over territorial claims.
For instance, in one Tibetan village, eight locals were found dead after a quarrel over-harvesting rights.
In 1993, Chinese track and field runner, Junxia Wang, broke several world records. Her coach, Junren Ma, later credited a tonic of Cordyceps sinensis and turle blood for Wang’s impressive performance, sparking international attention and demand. Years later, Junren Ma was removed from the Chinese Olympic team due to his athletes failing drug tests.
Today, the fungus is highly exploited for its wide range of benefits such as increased energy, antioxidation, and respiratory support. As such, mycologists fear that the wild fungus might soon disappear.
Contrary to popular zombie lore, the Cordyceps fungi aren’t mind-controlling. They control their hosts, such as caterpillars, by interfering with their nervous system and taking over their muscles.
This is how the fungus gets the caterpillar to burrow itself a few inches beneath the ground surface with its head up. This position facilitates the eventual growth of the Cordyceps’ fruiting body.
The prevalence of caterpillars with Cordyceps in traditional medicine has led to the development of a lab-grown alternative with similar bioactive compounds, the first example being Cordyceps Cs-4.
This cultivated alternative is developed by growing pure Cordyceps mycelium in a liquid substrate.
Since then, a much bigger breakthrough was the development of being able to grow Cordyceps militaris mushrooms without the need for the host insect. This allows for commercial mushroom growers to vastly scale mushroom production to meet worldwide demand while alleviating the demand on the limited wild supply.
Cordyceps fungi infect caterpillars in the following way:
1. Wang, S. M., Lee, L. J., Lin, W. W., & Chang, C. M. (1998). Effects of a water-soluble extract of Cordyceps sinensis on steroidogenesis and capsular morphology of lipid droplets in cultured rat adrenocortical cells. Journal of cellular biochemistry, 69(4), 483-489.
2. Paterson, 2008; Zhong et al., 2009; Lo et al., 2012; Yan et al., 2014
A healthy twist on a breakfast staple! These low-carb, buttery, paleo biscuits will have your taste buds dancing and your energy soaring thanks to the wholesome ingredients and the secret punch of cordyceps extract powder.
Break out the jam, the gravy, and your taste buds because this is one of those recipes where you can have your biscuit and eat it too. Not only are these biscuits paleo-friendly and autoimmune-friendly, but they’re ramped up a notch or two with cordyceps mushroom extract! Unlike caffeine, this energizing mushroom is not a stimulant, so you’ll get the energy benefits without the downsides. Plus, the cordyceps extract lends a gorgeous golden color to the recipe. That’s a win-win in our books!
Forget the highly processed, blood-sugar spiking bleached white flour and bring in the almond flour. This low-carb alternative, mixed with the healthy fat coming from the ghee, makes these paleo biscuits a great staple for those wanting an energizing, blood-sugar-stabilizing, healthy substitute for white bread.
The energizing ingredients don’t stop there though: enter cordyceps. The health benefits of cordyceps range from improving exercise stamina, libido, supporting a healthy inflammatory response, testosterone levels, heart health, and maintaining blood sugar balance.
To learn more about this amazing ingredient and the two different varieties, read our article: Cordyceps Mushrooms: Supplement Types & Health Benefits.
We all love a tasty, healthy, easy recipe, and these paleo biscuits fit right into that category.
While making the biscuit dough it’s important not to over-mix the batter. Over-mixing can lead to biscuits that are tough, gummy, or unpleasantly chewy.
To make these paleo biscuits into a complete meal, whip up some eggs or serve with ramen or butternut squash soup.
Truthfully, there are countless ways to enjoy these paleo biscuits: alongside a hearty meal, with a smear of butter, a dollop of jelly, drizzled with olive oil and herbs, or doused in gravy - the list goes on. They also make a great stand-alone snack while on the go and could even serve folks who follow a low-carb, high-fat diet.
Scroll on down for the directions to get these paleo biscuits whipped up ASAP! You won’t be disappointed.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Servings: 6 large biscuits
That’s it - simple and easy! The hardest part is waiting for these paleo biscuits to cook and cool while smelling that delicious, buttery aroma.
Enjoy in Good Health: Take a pass on the energy-depleting, processed white bread and easily whip up these energy-giving paleo biscuits instead. You get all of the same delicious, buttery taste, but also reap the rewards of having the energy to do the things you love.
Don’t pass on enjoying meals with loved ones, though. Nourishing meals, community, and doing activities that light you up are all foundational aspects of a healthy, joy-filled life. So run to the kitchen and grab the almond flour and Real Mushrooms Cordyceps to try these delicious, paleo biscuits. They’re perfect for one, and even more fun to share!
For more delicious recipes that use our energy-enhancing cordyceps extract, go to our recipe roundup: 5 Ridiculously Delicious Cordyceps Mushroom Recipes.
There’s a fascinating mushroom that grows from insect bodies after it consumes them from the inside out. This parasitic fungus is called Cordyceps. Ironically, what is deadly to insects becomes something that is healthy for humans to consume as a multi-benefit supplement. There are key differences between the commercially-available Cordyceps types used in supplements. So, the question is: when it comes to Cordyceps sinensis vs militaris, which variety gives you the most health benefits for your buck?
Cordyceps sinensis is a type of health-supporting, functional mushroom that has been used for centuries in Traditional Chinese medicine. In modern times it has become so rare and highly sought after for its unique health-supporting properties that its price tag makes purchasing it out of reach for all but the ultra-rich.
However, there is an alternative to the sinensis variety of Cordyceps that can be cultivated commercially. This alternative requires no dead insects to be involved in the growing process and makes the resulting supplement affordable. Happily, this cultivated version, called Cordyceps militaris, provides the same kind of healthy compounds that makes the Cordyceps sinensis variety effective as a supplement.
Read on to learn more about the difference between Cordyceps sinensis vs militaris and which of these two mushrooms makes for the best Cordyceps supplement. This unique mushroom is worthy of exploring for the number of health benefits it can provide. However, the supplement industry can be misleading about what you’re getting, so this guide will help inform you about what to look for.
Each of the 400+ species of Cordyceps is fundamentally a parasite that will grow on a very specific insect unique to it. We will be examining just two of these species: Cordyceps sinensis (now known as Ophiocordyceps sinensis), and Cordyceps militaris.
After Cordyceps spores enter an insect’s body, the fungus begins to grow inside the insect and turn it into mycelium (the “root-like” filament structures that will sprout mushrooms). The mycelium continues to spread inside the insect until it fully consumes it and completely turns it into mycelium. The mushroom, or fruiting body, of the fungi then grows out from the head of the insect.
The most well-known and common species of Cordyceps mushrooms is Ophiocordyceps sinensis. Previously known as Cordyceps sinensis, it enters and grows from the caterpillar of the Hepialus moth. When found in the wild, the mushroom will be above the ground’s surface with the body of the insect below.
The Cordyceps sinensis species of Cordyceps is very rare in the wild because of the lifecycle of the fungus and specific environmental growing conditions necessary for it to thrive. It mainly grows at high elevations in Tibet and the Chinese provinces of Sichuan, Yunnan, Qinghai and Gansu. It can also be found in India, Nepal, and Bhutan, but is less abundant there. In Tibet, the mushroom is known as Yarsagumba or yartsa gunbu and in China it is known as Dōnɡ Chónɡ Xià Cǎo (冬虫夏草), which translate to summer grass, winter worm.
Cordyceps sinensis is relatively rare to find naturally and grows only in these limited regions. This scarcity of the wild variety of Cordyceps sinensis and its desirable health-promoting traits results in a high price tag (around $20,000 per kilogram). Therefore, these fungi are not typically in any supplement you can readily purchase..
Due to the rapid rise in price on this precious resource, it has been dubbed “Himilayan gold.” It has become a significant contributor to household income in the harvesting regions, so much so that there have been disputes over harvesting territory, and outsiders have tried to push their way in. There are now harvesting permits being issued by the Chinese government and local land holders for access to the growing regions. For more on Cordyceps sinensis harvesting and the lifestyle in Tibet, see Daniel Winkler’s article in Fungi Magazine.
More recently, concerns over the sustainability of Cordyceps sinensis have been raised around overharvesting, ecosystem degradation and climate change (1).
This is an entire article in itself but it needs a brief mention.
Cordyceps sinensis made international headlines in 1993 at the Chinese national games in Beijing, when multiple Chinese runners shattered track and field records.
Most notable was Wang Jungxia, who beat the 10,000m world record by 42 seconds. This record lasted for 23 years.
Three days later, she came second to teammate Yunxia Qu in the 1500m. They both beat the previous world record, and Yunxia’s record stood for 22 years.
Two days after that, Wang posted a world record in the 3000m. This record still stands today, and four of the five best times in the 3000m come from Chinese athletes in these 1993 games.
Their coach, Ma Junren, claimed their success was due to a tonic of Cordyceps sinensis and turtle blood.
This Olympic runner's story is touted all around the internet to promote Cordyceps products, but what is typically left out is that many of Ma’s athletes later failed drug tests. Because of this, Ma Junren was eventually dropped as part of the Chinese Olympic team.
This era of sports in the 80s to mid-90s was rife with doping scandals, and it begs the question: was their success really due to Cordyceps?
It’s true, wild Cordyceps sinensis (shown below) is not in 99.9% of Cordyceps supplements because of its exceptionally high price tag. In fact, wild Cordyceps sinensis costs over $20,000 per kilogram, making it the most expensive mushroom in the world. It is almost exclusively sold in Asia and rarely makes it into the North American market.
The high price tag of Cordyceps sinensis mushrooms (including the caterpillar) is in part due to the fact that for many years, Chinese scientists have been unable to cultivate this mushroom. This has fueled increased demand on a set supply of wild Cordyceps sinensis. Recently Chinese scientists figured out how to cultivate this mushroom, but it is not at a production scale yet to make an impact on wild Cordyceps sinensis prices and cultivators want to cash in on the high price tag of the wild version.
Even though the majority of Cordyceps supplements do not contain the caterpillar fungus, this has not stopped many companies from using photos of Cordyceps sinensis in their marketing materials and label information. This has caused customers to believe they are consuming this mushroom. Sadly, they are not.
But if the caterpillar fungus (Cordyceps sinensis) isn’t in your supplements, then WHAT is?
There is currently one type of Cordyceps species that can be commercially cultivated at scale to produce a mushroom (fruiting body), and it is becoming quite popular for use in supplements. This is Cordyceps militaris.
Cordyceps militaris is known as Scarlet Club Fungus, or Caterpillar Killer in the U.S. It is the Cordyceps species that can grow on the largest variety of insects and can be found widely in North America and Asia (3). They are commonly found in the mountains, in bogs.
This Cordyceps variety can be commercially cultivated at scale rather easily and does not require any insects. By using Cordyceps militaris, for the first time, true Cordyceps mushroom extracts can be made.
There are two distinct advantages to the Cordyceps Militaris vs Cordyceps Sinensis:
1. No insects are harmed in the making of this mushroom - Cordyceps militaris is grown in a sterile medium, NOT in an arthropod.
2. It’s a super-charged version of Cordyceps - Cordyceps militaris produces the health-supporting compound cordycepin (3′-deoxyadenosine) in much higher amounts when compared to Cordyceps sinensis (2).
A study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry in 2008, confirmed that not only does Cordyceps militaris contain more cordycepin when compared with the wild Cordyceps sinensis, it has up to 90 times more (2)!
That data is very revealing, as products touting the benefits of cordycepin and labelled as Cordyceps sinensis would likely have undetectable amounts of this phyto-nutrient. This information makes the shopping decision much easier when it comes to deciding whether or buy a supplement made from Cordyceps sinensis vs militaris: Cordyceps militaris is the clear winner.
More and more research is coming out showing that Cordyceps militaris has similar benefits to wild Cordyceps sinensis. It has traditionally been used as an alternative to Cordyceps sinensis in Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Given the exorbitant cost of Cordyceps sinensis, the majority of the supplements sold in North America will be extracts made from cultivated the Cordyceps militaris fungus.
Note that Cordyceps militaris products grown in North America are still myceliated grain and not a true mushroom extract. Pure mushroom extract powders almost solely come from Asia, with China accounting for over 90% of worldwide mushroom production.
There are important differences between Cordyceps militaris products available in North America. So, don’t go sprinting to that supplement aisle just yet to grab yourself a bottle of affordable Cordyceps! Read on below for important facts you will need to know before you go shopping for a Cordyceps extract.
To get the most health benefits from your Cordyceps supplement, you will have to make sure of three things:
1. The supplement is made from Cordyceps militaris. As already stated above, Cordyceps militaris produces the health-supporting compound cordycepin (3′-deoxyadenosine) in much higher amounts when compared to Cordyceps sinensis. Besides that, the price tag of Cordyceps sinensis vs militaris makes buying the militaris-based supplement a no-brainer.
1. The Cordyceps militaris supplement label specifically says that it is made from the actual mushroom (fruiting body), not the mycelium. Mycelium-based supplements will include the grain these fungal filaments are grown on and contain a lower proportion of medicinal compounds. Cordyceps mycelium on grain would have almost no cordycepin due to the low amount of mycelium present. Learn more about the significant differences between supplements made from mycelium vs fruiting body here.
2. The supplement label identifies the beta-glucan content, the key mushroom compound to getting health-supporting effects from fungi. The Real Mushrooms Cordyceps-M supplement, which is extracted exclusively from organic Cordyceps militaris mushrooms, has greater than 25% beta-glucans. Compare that to Cordyceps mycelium on grain, which typically has 1-3% beta-glucans. Since all Real Mushrooms supplements are derived from the mushroom (versus the mycelium), there are much higher levels of the important beta-glucans.
You can ensure you receive ethically-produced, pure and potent Cordyceps militaris extract if you select any of Real Mushrooms’ products. We cultivate certified organic mushrooms and use ideal mushroom extraction methods to make the best Cordyceps supplement on the market. Conveniently, we offer two ways for you to take your daily dose of Cordyceps militaris supplements: capsules, or powders.
Yes, it’s important to understand the differences between Cordyceps sinensis vs militaris to ensure you’re getting the best Cordyceps supplement. However, there’s so much more to learn about this fascinating mushroom!
Read our other articles to get to know the advantages and uses of this unique health-supporting fungus:
Cordyceps mushrooms are gaining more popularity as people look for natural supplements for lung health.
While there are a variety of supplements for respiratory support on the market, Cordyceps contains a number of beneficial bioactive compounds that provide a range of health benefits, including lung health support.
Cordyceps mushrooms may help maintain open airways, enabling free and easy breathing. They hold the potential to be effective supplements for shortness of breath and other respiratory issues.
Before you decide to talk to your health care provider about trying Cordyceps to help with respiratory health, here’s what you should know.
Cordyceps mushrooms are powerful medicinal mushrooms with a long history of use in the Far East as well as South America. With over 400 different species known today, you find Cordyceps all over the world, from China and Japan to Brazil and the US (1).
Traditionally, these fungi were used to help support energy levels and healthy sexual function as well as bronchial, lung, liver, and kidney health. Researchers are working to learn about each of the 400 Cordyceps species and determine how to best use them to benefit human health, including use as supplements for lung health.
However, these fungi are very rare in the wild because of the lifecycle of the fungus and specific environmental growing conditions necessary for it to thrive. Each of the 400+ species of Cordyceps will grow in the wild on a very specific insect unique to it. Don't worry though, as cultivated cordyceps such as those in Real Mushrooms’ supplements do not require an insect to grow.
After Cordyceps enters an insect’s body, the fungus’ spores grow inside the insect and turn it into mycelium (the “root-like” filament structures that will sprout mushrooms). The mycelium continues to grow inside the insect until it fully consumes it and completely turns it into mycelium. The mushroom, or fruiting body, of the fungi then grows out from the head of the insect.
The most well-known and common species of Cordyceps mushrooms is Ophiocordyceps sinensis. Previously known as Cordyceps sinensis, it enters and grows from the caterpillar of the Hepialus moth. When found in the wild, the mushroom will be above the surface with the body of the insect below the ground. These specific fungi are found only in certain alpine areas of the Himalayan Plateau in the regions of China and Tibet, making them very rare and valuable.
The scarcity of the wild variety of Cordyceps sinensis results in a high price tag (around $20,000 per kilogram). Therefore, these fungi are not typically in any supplements for lung health you can readily purchase.
Beware of any product claiming it is made from Cordyceps sinensis, as it is almost guaranteed not to be the caterpillar fungus but some form of inferior Cordyceps mycelium instead (1). For more details, see our Cordyceps guide.
Commercial cultivation of Cordyceps sinensis is difficult to do at scale—the best efforts thus far have produced mycelium grown in liquid culture. Research shows that the liquid mycelium culture has some of the same health benefits, but it is not a genuine mushroom product.
Alternatively, extracts made of pure Cordyceps militaris mushroom, a different species and close relative of Cordyceps sinensis, contain the full complement of the bio-active compounds found in the mushroom (fruiting body) of Cordyceps sinensis.
Cordyceps militaris is known as Scarlet Club Fungus, or Caterpillar Killer in the U.S. It is the Cordyceps species that can grow on the largest variety of insects and can be found widely in North America and Asia.
The primary beneficial compounds in both types of Cordyceps are beta-glucans and adenosine, though Cordyceps militaris also contains another special compound called cordycepin. In fact, the militaris species can contain up to 90 times more of this unique health-supporting compound than its sinensis cousin (22).
Unlike the sinensis species, Cordyceps militaris can be commercially cultivated at scale to produce a mushroom (fruiting body), and it is becoming quite popular for use in supplements for lung health.
Learn more about the differences between these two type of Cordyceps species in our article, Cordyceps Sinensis vs Militaris: What’s the Best Cordyceps Supplement?
Thanks to environmental influences and toxins in our surroundings, people are increasingly concerned with respiratory health. Many folks struggle with seasonal challenges, as they can be triggered by a wide variety of sources such as food, plants, animal sheddings, chemicals, drugs, and even particles in the air around you (2).
Seasonal challenges are basically overreactions of the immune system. It launches an all-out war in order to fight what it believes are potentially toxic invaders but which are actually harmless. This can cause a reaction in your respiratory and digestive system, as well as potentially spreading to other parts of your body like your skin and lymph nodes.
How your body reacts to seasonal irritants will differ from person to person and can change over the years, as our bodies and environments also change. Using supplements for lung health can help you adapt to these environmental and physiological shifts.
The helpful characteristics of Cordyceps mushrooms have been researched for a wide variety of indications in recent years, and this research shows promising results (12). While more clinical data is still needed, many of these preclinical studies found a link between Cordyceps and improved lung health (13).
This means that Cordyceps supplements may aid in supporting lung health and improving respiratory function. They can also be used as lung supplements for smokers, and may help with lung support while trying to quit smoking.
Seasonal challenges involve activation of an immune cell called the mast cell, which can release histamine and other immune cells that can wreak havoc in the body (14).
Thymic Stromal Lymphopoietin (TLSP) is an epithelial-derived cytokine that is a major contributor to mast cell development and activation (15).
Studies conducted in vitro have shown how Cordyceps mushrooms may significantly suppress TLSP from activating, thus maintaining homeostasis in the body (16).
Other studies show the effect these medicinal mushrooms have on assisting the body with respiratory health, as they relax the bronchial walls and promote enhanced oxygen utilization efficacy (17,18,19).
These benefits, along with the minimal and mild nature of potential side effects from Cordyceps supplements for lung health, make the fungi useful in any situation where an increase or improvement in lung function is important.
Cordyceps mushrooms have been known for their ability to support the immune system and are considered to be biomolecular immunomodulators. They help the body adapt better to immune threats and support a healthy inflammatory response, which is key to promoting respiratory health (20).
Just like other medicinal mushrooms, these fungi are effective adaptogens and immune supporters, helping to protect you against immune threats in your everyday environment.
When choosing Cordyceps supplements for lung health, the key to achieving desirable results is ensuring you’re getting a 100% mushroom supplement of the best possible potency and quality (21). This means choosing a supplement made from mushrooms (fruiting bodies), not mycelium (which, unfortunately, is what most Cordyceps supplements sold in North America are made from). Real Mushrooms Cordyceps supplements are an exception: they have the highest potency of health-supporting compounds possible because they contain the actual mushroom (fruit bodies) and are made using optimal extraction methods.
Human and animal studies have shown that Cordyceps and other mushroom-based supplements can have a significant impact on athletic performance. One way that Cordyceps is believed to do this is by supporting lung function. It turns out this mushroom makes ideal supplements for lung health in those with respiratory issues, but also helps those with healthy lungs improve their respiration for athletic gains.
While more research is needed, there is animal and human data indicating cordyceps calms agitated bronchial tubes and supports healthy respiratory function (23,24).
Some animal research suggests that Cordyceps may boost the body’s adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production (25,26). ATP is a molecule that’s essential for delivering energy to your muscles. Increasing ATP may help your body optimize the use of oxygen, especially during exercise. This may help you exercise at a higher intensity for longer.
In one study involving 30 healthy older adults, researchers tested the effects of Cordyceps on exercise endurance. Half of the participants received 3 grams of a synthetic strain of Cordyceps called CS-4 while the other half received a placebo. After 6 weeks, the CS-4 group had increased their VO2 max by 7%, while the placebo group remained the same. VO2 is a measurement used to determine how much oxygen your body can absorb during exercise (27).
For more information about how Cordyceps can improve respiration for athletic performance, read our article Stimulant-Free Pre-Workout & Post-Workout Mushroom Supplements.
Despite limited evidence supporting any contraindications, Cordyceps is not for everyone. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid these fungi, as well as those with severe auto-immune conditions, such as lupus and multiple sclerosis, and bleeding disorders.
Caution should be taken with anti-platelet (blood thinning) and immunosuppressant medications, as they may interact with cordyceps. This goes for anyone who is about to undergo surgery or is recovering from a significant injury too.
As with any mushroom supplement, make sure to check with your health care provider before you start or stop taking any supplement or medication.
By learning about and understanding the way Cordyceps and other medicinal mushrooms can influence your overall health and wellbeing, you can be more confident and make better decisions about your diet and wisely choose supplements for lung health.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has thus far been the major proponent of these incredible fungi. Thanks to today’s scientific investigation, we’re able to reap the benefits and use them as supplements for lung health.
Take a look at Real Mushroom’s line of high-quality mushroom supplements, including our Cordyceps-M, available in both capsule and powder form.
Cordyceps-M is made from 100% hot-water-extracted organic Cordyceps militaris mushrooms. Our line of supplements ensures that you’re getting the best Cordyceps supplement from genuine mushrooms.
1. Chilton, Skye, 2017, ‘Cordyceps Mushroom Supplement Types Explained + The Health Benefits’, Real Mushrooms Blog, https://www.realmushrooms.com/cordyceps-supplements-guide/
2. Mayo Clinic, 2020, Allergies, https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/allergies/symptoms-causes/syc-20351497
3. Mayo Clinic, 2020, Asthma, https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/asthma/symptoms-causes/syc-20369653
4. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, 2020, Bronchitis https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/bronchitis
5. Centers For Disease Control and Prevention, 2020, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), https://www.cdc.gov/copd/index.html
6. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, 2017, COPD National Action Plan, https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/education-and-awareness/COPD-national-action-plan
7. Mayo Clinic, 2020, Pneumonia, https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pneumonia/symptoms-causes/syc-20354204
8. Johns Hopkins Medicine, 2020, Pneumoconiosis, https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/pneumoconiosis
9. American Lung Association, 2020, Interstitial Lung Disease, https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/interstitial-lung-disease
10. Johns Hopkins Medicine, 2020, Pulmonary sarcoidosis, https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/pulmonary-sarcoidosis
11. Centers For Disease Control and Prevention, 2020, Coronavirus (COVID-19), https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html
12. National Center for Biotechnology Information, 3 Biotech. 2014 Feb; 4(1): 1–12, Published online 2013 Feb 19.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3909570/
13. National Center for Biotechnology Information, Exp Ther Med. 2018 Mar; 15(3): 2731–2738, Published online 2018 Jan 19. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5795554/
14. American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology, 2020, MAST CELL ACTIVATION SYNDROME (MCAS), https://www.aaaai.org/conditions-and-treatments/related-conditions/mcas
15. National Center for Biotechnology Information, Expert Rev Clin Immunol. Author manuscript,
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4332833/
16. National Library of Medicine, J Invest Dermatol, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26725432/
17. National Center for Biotechnology Information, Evid Based Complement Alternat Med., https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5165155/
18, National Library of Medicine, Ethnopharmacol, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22796203/
19. ScienceDirect, Cordyceps sp.: The Precious Mushroom for High-Altitude Maladies
Mamta Pal, Kshipra Misra, in Management of High Altitude Pathophysiology, 2018,
https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/immunology-and-microbiology/cordyceps
20. National Center for Biotechnology Information, Bao-qin Lin and Shao-ping Li, Herbal Medicine: Biomolecular and Clinical Aspects. 2nd edition, 2011, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK92758/
21. Real Mushrooms, Cordyceps-M Capsules, https://shop.realmushrooms.com/products/organic-cordyceps-extract-capsules
22. Yuan, J. P., Zhao, S. Y., Wang, J. H., Kuang, H. C., Liu, X., Uan, J. I. A. N. I. N. G. Y., … Iu, X. I. N. L. (2008). Distribution of nucleosides and nucleobases in edible fungi. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 56(3), 809–815.
23. Tuli, H. S., Sandhu, S. S., & Sharma, A. K. (2014, February 4). Pharmacological and therapeutic potential of Cordyceps with special reference to Cordycepin. 3 Biotech. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3909570/.
24. Yang, L., et al. (2018, March 15). Cordyceps sinensis inhibits airway remodeling in rats with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Experimental and therapeutic medicine. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5795554/.
25. Xu, Y.-F. (2016). Effect of Polysaccharide from Cordyceps militaris (Ascomycetes) on Physical Fatigue Induced by Forced Swimming. International journal of medicinal mushrooms. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28094746/.
26. Song, J. et al. (2015, August 17). Studies on the Antifatigue Activities of Cordyceps militaris Fruit Body Extract in Mouse Model. Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine : eCAM. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26351509/.
27. Yi, X. et al. (2004, September). Randomized double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial and assessment of fermentation product of Cordyceps sinensis (Cs-4) in enhancing aerobic capacity and respiratory function of the healthy elderly volunteers. Chinese Journal of Integrative Medicine. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007%2FBF02836405.
Cordyceps mushrooms seem to be all the rage right now. You see them in every adaptogen and pre-workout supplement. They’re being talked about extensively in the mushroom community and are one of the top superfoods.
So what is all the hype surrounding this fascinating fungus? Let’s first explore exactly what this fungus is and how it can benefit your health. Then we will look at the common variations of Cordyceps on the market and help decipher what to look for in a Cordyceps supplement.
Cordyceps mushrooms are parasitic fungi that include over 400 different species. They grow all over the world in countries like China, Japan, India, the United States, Australia, Peru, Bolivia, and many more. They typically infect insects and arthropods, with each species of Cordyceps infecting a very specific bug.
The life cycle begins with Cordyceps spores landing on the insect. The spore germinates, and small thread-like filaments called hyphae will begin to grow inside the insect and turn into mycelium. The mycelium (the fungi’s root-like structure that will develop into a mushroom) continues to consume the insect from the inside.
When the fungal mycelium fully consumes the insect and the environmental conditions are correct, a blade-like mushroom (fruiting body) is produced from the insect’s head. The mushroom then releases spores and the life cycle starts over.
Here is a BBC Planet Earth clip of Cordyceps infecting ants:
Even the popular video game The Last of Us, feature Cordyceps as the main antagonist. In it, a mutant Cordyceps strain infects humans creating “Cordyceps zombies.” And no, Cordyceps does not really infect humans.
There are two types of Cordyceps mushrooms that you can buy: Cordyceps sinensis and Cordyceps militaris.
We give a brief overview of the differences between the two below. However, we encourage you to read our article, Cordyceps Sinensis vs Militaris: What’s the Best Cordyceps Supplement? for a better understanding of each type. The article explains which of these two varieties is preferable over the other when it comes to supplementing with this mushroom.
The most well-known species of Cordyceps mushrooms is Cordyceps sinensis (now known officially as Ophiocordyceps sinensis), which infects the caterpillar of the Hepialus moth. It mainly grows at high elevations in Tibet and the Chinese provinces of Sichuan, Yunnan, Qinghai and Gansu. It can also be found in India, Nepal, and Bhutan, but is less abundant there.
In Tibet, it is known as Yarsagumba or yartsa gunbu and in China it is known as Dōnɡ Chónɡ Xià Cǎo (冬虫夏草), which translate to summer grass, winter worm.
Wild Cordyceps sinensis (shown above) is not in 99.9% of Cordyceps supplements because of its exceptionally high price tag. In fact, wild Cordyceps sinensis costs over $20,000 per kilogram, making it the most expensive mushroom in the world. It is almost exclusively sold in Asia and rarely makes it into the North American market.
The high price tag of Cordyceps sinensis mushrooms (including the caterpillar) is due to the fact that for many years, Chinese scientists have been unable to cultivate this mushroom. This has fueled increased demand on a set supply of wild Cordyceps sinensis. Recently Chinese scientists figured out how to cultivate this mushroom, but it is not at a production scale yet to make an impact on wild Cordyceps sinensis prices.
So, don’t expect to readily (or affordably) be able to get your hands on this pricey mushroom.
There is currently one type of Cordyceps species that can be commercially cultivated at scale to produce a mushroom (fruiting body), and it is becoming quite popular for use in supplements. This is Cordyceps militaris.
Cordyceps militaris is known as Scarlet Club Fungus, or Caterpillar Killer in the U.S. It is the Cordyceps species that can grow on the largest variety of insects and can be found widely in North America and Asia. They are commonly found in the mountains, in bogs.
This Cordyceps variety can be commercially cultivated at scale rather easily. By using Cordyceps militaris, for the first time, true Cordyceps mushroom extracts can be made.
Now that we’ve dispelled a lot of the misinformation around Cordyceps, let’s look at some of the benefits of using Cordyceps.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Cordyceps mushrooms are considered a very special tonic. Called Dōnɡ Chónɡ Xià Cǎo (冬虫夏草), these mushrooms were offered to the Emperor’s court and others among Chinese nobility. The first written record was mentioned in the year AD 620. Traditionally it was used as a lung and kidney tonic, making it useful for respiratory complaints, physical tiredness, and for those with a weak constitution. Sexual function, libido, and performance are also keynotes for Cordyceps mushrooms’ traditional use.
Cordyceps is considered a jing tonic by nourishing yin, boosting yang, and supporting kidney essence. Essence is considered to be the elixir of life in TCM. Essence comes from lifestyle (post-natal qi: breathing, diet, meditation, mushrooms and herbs) or from energetic reserves we are born with (pre-natal qi). Cordyceps is considered to be placed on equal value with other valued tonics like ginseng, reishi and deer antler velvet.
Cordyceps mushrooms have a sweet flavor and are slightly warm in energetics. These more subtle qualities of Cordyceps are used to make sure Cordyceps isn’t used in the wrong scenarios. For example, due to the stimulating and strengthening nature of Cordyceps mushrooms, they are contraindicated in conditions with lung heat based on their ability to not only strengthen the person but also the current state of the body.
There have been 50 medicines and two Cordyceps supplements approved in China since 2002.
Think vigor and vitality when looking at the traditional applications of Cordyceps: a secret tonic traditionally used to strengthen, rebuild and energize the body and mind.
Supplements of Cordyceps mushrooms showed improved exercise performance in healthy older patients, as demonstrated by improved respiratory and metabolic functioning (44). This study took 20 healthy elderly individuals ages 50-75. One group was the control, and the other group took 999 mg of Cs-4 (three 333-mg capsules) per day. The subjects performed the stationary cycle ergometer using breath-by-breath examination at baseline and the end of the study. The results were quite good! Following 12 weeks of Cs-4 supplementation, the healthy elderly individuals’ lactate threshold increased by 10.5%, and their ventilatory threshold increased by 8.5%. On the other hand, the control group saw no changes in VO2 max (5).
Similar results were shown in a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial, which showed a 7% improvement in VO2max in healthy older individuals, this time in a bigger sample size (48).
Cordyceps was shown in a small study to have no effect on aerobic capacity in trained athletes. The researchers theorize that trained athletes are already close to their aerobic capacity, and Cordyceps’ mechanisms of action have less of an effect (45).
Another human study supported the use of Cordyceps on energy and sympathetic activation during exercise (49).
Animal studies show that the polysaccharides in Cordyceps mushrooms can have an anti-tiredness effect and improve exercise performance biomarkers (46). One such study found that rodents that received two weeks of Cordyceps militaris (CM) supplementation displayed greater levels of delayed tiredness compared to rodents not given Cordyceps militaris. Not only that, but the CM rodent group had higher levels of ATP, antioxidant enzyme levels and best of all, lower levels of lactic acid (a key component affecting tiredness and time to exercise-induced exhaustion). In other words, these rodents were able to push longer and harder without tiring out as quickly (8).
Cordyceps mushrooms have been documented to have antioxidative effects (50). In theory, this could support athletes during and after their performance. Recovery is a critical time often overlooked by athletes of all levels. Athletes using Cordyceps for performance enhancement should also consider its recovery potential.
Conveniently, Cordyceps is a key ingredient in a blend that Real Mushrooms has recently launched to help support your energy, stamina, and vitality. Our Real Boost supplement is paired with other herbs such as Guayusa and Ginseng extract for optimal effects.
For more information about the use of Cordyceps mushrooms and other functional fungi to support exercise performance and athletics, read our article on Stimulant-Free Pre-Workout & Post-Workout Mushroom Supplements.
Preliminary human and animal cell studies suggest Cordyceps may support healthy levels of inflammation and immune markers (15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20). Beta-glucans and cordycepin in Cordyceps militaris have been theorized to be the main compounds responsible for their apparent ability to support a healthy inflammation response (14, 23).
Mouse studies on blood sugar balance suggest that Cordyceps mushrooms may support the health of pancreatic beta cells (21). The immunomodulating and inflammation-balancing properties of Cordyceps may help rebalance the T regulatory and Th17 cell ratio seen in one mouse study (22).
Age-related inflammation of the cells and mitochondria can be influenced by free radicals and reactive oxygen species. In vitro and in vivo animal research suggests Cordyceps helps oxygen delivery at a cellular level, which may support a healthy inflammation response (25).
Animal research indicates Cordyceps mushrooms may have an effect on adenosine receptors, which explains some of its inflammation-balancing properties (55, 56).
Traditionally, Cordyceps mushrooms were used as an aphrodisiac to support sexual performance and healthy libido. Modern science indicates they may support healthy levels of androgens in men.
One animal study showed that Cordyceps helped mitigate the impact of bisphenol A (BPA, a hormone-disrupting plastic) on the reproductive system while supporting healthy testosterone levels, sperm motility, and sperm count (26).
Cordycepin may support healthy steroidogenic acute regulatory (STAR) enzyme, which allows the starting substrate of all hormones, cholesterol, to enter the mitochondria for the production of steroid hormones. Cholesterol is converted to pregnenolone and pregnenolone to testosterone (27, 28).
A lot of individuals looking to support healthy levels of testosterone often make the mistake of overtraining. Overtraining can lead to an increase in free radicals, leading to oxidative stress and a negative impact on the hypothalamus, pituitary, adrenal and gonadal axis (29). Cordyceps mushrooms also have abundant have anti-oxidative properties (30).
A pilot endurance athlete study (7 participants) showed that Cordyceps supplementation combined with reishi mushroom supplementation decreased overtraining markers and supported healthy testosterone to cortisol ratio. This same study showed decreases in oxidative stress (32).
A small study sample (16 participants) showed that young, healthy male adults showed no support of physical endurance or testosterone levels when supplementing with 2.4g/day of cordyceps (33). Again, this may be similar to the VO2 max studies showing that Cordyceps may have less of an effect on physically fit individuals.
Less may be more when looking at dosing for hormonal-balancing effects; a few of these animal studies showed better results with the lower dosage (1% vs 5%).
Cordyceps mushrooms were used traditionally to support libido and all things related to sexual functioning, but clinical data is lacking in this area.
Most of the in vitro studies and in vivo animal studies suggest that Cordyceps’ libido-enhancing effects may come from its hormone-supportive actions.
A study on individuals with low libido treated with cultured Cordyceps showed a 64.5% subjective improvement (41). A 2016 review referenced a Cordyceps study which increased libido and sexual performance in men and women (62).
One other thing to consider is that medicinal mushrooms may be 5-alpha-reductase (5AR) inhibitors, which could prevent testosterone from being converted to dihydrotestosterone (DHT). This is why you see claims that medicinal mushrooms can support healthy hair in men over 50 (63). Whether or not that is true remains to be seen.
The evidence to support the libido-enhancing effects of Cordyceps mushrooms is weak at best. Other than traditional and historic use, there is minimal research (34, 35). However, taking into consideration the other positive physiological effects Cordyceps mushrooms exert, they may support a healthy sex drive, as libido has biopsychosocial factors.
Maintaining a healthy blood sugar balance is important since imbalances can negatively affect the kidneys due to increased oxidative stress.
Animal studies suggest that Cordyceps mushrooms may help maintain blood sugar levels already within a healthy range (36). Cordyceps mushrooms also appear to have kidney-protective and antioxidant effects (37).
Further evidence is needed to explore the preliminary findings of Cordyceps’ biomedical application in supporting kidney function (38).
There is currently no randomized clinical trial data to support Cordyceps assisting with blood sugar balance.
In animal studies, Cordyceps mushrooms appear to help maintain LDL cholesterol levels already within a healthy range (41, 42).
Cordyceps’ protective role toward the cardiovascular system may be due to its adenosine and antioxidative effects. The compounds in Cordyceps mushrooms are thought to activate adenosine receptors, which can provide some cardioprotective effects. In fact, Cordyceps is used in China to support a regular heart rhythm (43).
Cordyceps’ possible performance enhancement mentioned above is another significant indicator of its effect on the cardiovascular system. (44,46,47,48,49).
Direct data regarding everyday worry and Cordyceps is lacking, though there is some supportive research.
Cordyceps mushrooms may theoretically help relieve occasional stress, which has been associated with higher levels of oxidation (52, 53). Cordyceps decreases oxidative stress while providing support to the psychoneuroimmunology processes in the body (i.e.processes in which psychology, neurology, and immunology interact). Adaptogens are mediators of this system with their ability to build resilience (54).
Animal studies show that cordycepin may be neuroprotective in certain populations and conditions (57). Synaptic functions (needed to transmit nerve impulses) depend on healthy mitochondria and ATP for proper functioning (58)
Cordyceps mushrooms are considered a stimulating adaptogen, meaning it is more energizing compared to other adaptogens that are more neutral, calming, or restorative. An example of a calming adaptogen is holy basil. TCM, energetic herbalism, and Ayurvedic knowledge have best understood the applications of different classes of adaptogens.
There are 3 types of Cordyceps supplements that are commonly found on the market as replacements for the extravagantly-priced Cordyceps sinensis:
In the 1980s, when 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).
These anamorphs were grown in a liquid growth medium to create mass amounts of pure mycelium.
This process is known as liquid culture mycelium, or liquid fermentation, and involves growing the mycelium in a liquid solution of nutrients that can then be removed, leaving you with pure mycelium. Most mycelium research is based on liquid fermentation mycelium.
These anamorphs were studied extensively and found to produce similar results to wild Cordyceps sinensis. This ended up turning into what is now known as Cordyceps Cs-4. After undergoing clinical trials in China, the Chinese government approved its use in TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) hospitals and it is now recognized as a safe natural product in China.
If a Cordyceps supplement is claiming to be Cordyceps sinensis and it is made in China, it is almost certainly Cordyceps Cs-4.
Other Cs-4 products may also be labeled as Paecilomyces hepiali, which is an anamorph form of Cordyceps sinensis.
Do not confuse Cordyceps Cs-4 (pure mycelium) with Cordyceps myceliated grain (below), as these are very different products.
Due to the fact that it is not economical to grow mushrooms in North America for supplement use, if a Cordyceps product is grown in North America, it is almost certainly Cordyceps myceliated grain.
Myceliated grain can also go by mycelium on grain (MOG), mycelium biomass, or grain spawn.
Myceliated grain products are typically labeled as Cordyceps sinensis or Cordyceps militaris.
Instead of growing the mycelium in liquid like what is used for Cordyceps Cs-4, the mycelium is instead grown in a plastic bag containing sterilized grain. This can also be referred to as solid-state fermentation.
The issue here is that unlike being in liquid, the mycelium cannot be separated from the grain, so the grain ends up in the final product. This reduces the volume of desirable Cordyceps compounds found in the final supplement product.
With mycelium-on-grain products, the mycelium does not fully consume the grain, so much of the final product is actually the grain the mycelium grows on. This is most apparent with Cordyceps mushrooms, as it is a slow-growing fungus.
From the table below, you see a high amount of alpha-glucans, which represent starch from the grain. Starch is an alpha-glucan. Therefore, the grain medium the Cordyceps mycelium grows on is nowhere close to being fully consumed by the fungus.
The high amount of grain translates into a low amount of mycelium, and this is confirmed in the low beta-glucan numbers. This is why it is important to measure beta-glucans and not polysaccharides for medicinal mushroom products. These samples can tout high polysaccharide numbers (beta + alpha), but the majority of them come from non-beneficial starches, which are alpha-glucans.
Beta-glucan and Alpha-glucan results of Cordyceps mycelium grown on grain: (3,4).
Myceliated grain is often justified by referencing research on pure mycelium made through liquid fermentation.
As pointed out above with Cs-4, Cordyceps myceliated grain is very different from Cordyceps Cs-4, so using Cordyceps Cs-4 research to justify the use of Cordyceps myceliated grain is not valid and is misleading to the consumer.
There is currently one type of Cordyceps species that can be commercially cultivated at scale to produce a mushroom (fruiting body), and it is becoming quite popular. This is Cordyceps militaris. By using Cordyceps militaris, for the first time, true Cordyceps mushroom extracts can be made.
Since they are derived from the mushroom (versus the mycelium), there are much higher levels of the important beta-glucans.
Our Cordyceps-M product, which is extracted exclusively from organic Cordyceps militaris mushrooms, has greater than 25% beta-glucans. Compare that to Cs-4, which typically has less than 10% beta-glucans, and Cordyceps mycelium on grain, which typically has 1-3% beta-glucans.
One of the unique things about Cordyceps militaris is that it produces the compound cordycepin (3′-deoxyadenosine) in much higher amounts when compared to Cordyceps sinensis.
As seen from the table above, Cordyceps militaris has up to 90 times more cordycepin (column “Co”) when compared with the wild Cordyceps sinensis. Cs-4 would likely have even less cordycepin than wild Cordyceps sinensis, and Cordyceps mycelium on grain would have almost no cordycepin due to the low amount of mycelium present.
This is very important, as products touting the benefits of cordycepin and labelled as Cordyceps sinensis would likely have undetectable amounts of this phyto-nutrient. Either that, or the product is improperly labelled as Cordyceps sinensis when it is actually Cordyceps militaris, which, by the way, is against FDA regulations and very misleading to consumers.
Note that Cordyceps militaris products grown in North America are still myceliated grain and not a true mushroom extract. Pure mushroom extract powders almost solely come from Asia, with China accounting for over 90% of the world’s mushroom production.
More and more research is coming out showing that Cordyceps militaris has similar benefits to traditional wild Cordyceps sinensis. It has traditionally been used as an alternative to Cordyceps sinensis in Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Cordycepic acid is not to be confused with cordycepin, which is a unique compound in Cordyceps. Many Cordyceps products talk about Cordycepic acid (sometimes spelled Cordyceptic) as a beneficial compound in Cordyceps. But this was debunked back in the 1960s as not being a compound unique to Cordyceps, but a compound that is found in all medicinal mushrooms, which is D-Mannitol or Mannitol (1).
Other nucleosides like adenine, adenosine and uridine, which are commonly touted in Cordyceps, are also found in other fungi as well (see table above).
Cordyceps mushroom extracts may interact with anti-coagulant, immunosuppressant, hormone replacement, and prednisolone medications.
Cordyceps may be contraindicated in breast and prostate cancer until further studies are performed (59).
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Cordyceps is contraindicated in acute fever, flu, or other pathogen invasions.
The typical dosage in the scientific literature is 1-3 g/day of Cordyceps extract powder. However, this depends on the form of Cordyceps and the potency.
Generally speaking, higher doses have been found effective in research. One human clinical study used 4g/day for exercise performance enhancement (47). Even higher doses can be considered for specific immune support with the recommendation from a medical professional.
Cordyceps is considered a generally well-tolerated supplement with limited side effects. Some users may experience mild diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal discomfort, which may be decreased by taking Cordyceps after a meal. There has been one case of a slight decrease in kidney function in an already compromised individual (60).
Cordyceps extract may cause anxiety in some individuals due to its energizing nature; Cordyceps has been shown to increase ATP production in rodents (8). An individual’s constitution and adrenal function status is something to consider when using this medicinal mushroom.
The easiest way to take advantage of the health benefits of Cordyceps militaris mushrooms is to use an extract. Real Mushrooms provides Cordyceps supplements in capsule or powder form, and also as part of an energy-boosting blend.
The cell wall of mushrooms is made up of chitin, which is the same substance that makes up crab shells. By extracting the mushrooms, this chitin will break down, allowing the body to have better access to the active constituents.
Extracting Cordyceps mushrooms produces a powder that is highly concentrated in bioactive compounds like beta-glucans and cordycepin. This is the method that Real Mushrooms uses with our organically-farmed mushrooms to produce the potent supplements we offer.
In comparison, eating Cordyceps militaris mushrooms or using a myceliated grain-based Cordyceps supplement will provide much smaller concentrations of the beneficial constituents.
While Real Mushrooms allows for simplicity of use by offering encapsulated Organic Cordyceps Extract Capsules, we also offer pouches of Organic Cordyceps Mushroom Extract Powder, so the extract can easily be incorporated into healthy recipes. Once you discover the pleasure of taking our Cordyceps powder, the sky's the limit for its uses in smoothies, stews, coffee, stir frys, and other meals and drinks.
To spark your creative application of this mushroom powder in your diet, read our article assembling our tastiest recipes using Cordyceps extracts.
It is very important when selecting a Cordyceps mushrooms product to know exactly where it came from and how it was made. Scrutinize the label and Supplements Facts panel very carefully.
Here are 6 primary takeaways to remember about Cordyceps supplements:
We always recommend selecting products that are extracted from the mushroom (fruiting body), ideally certified organic, with measured levels of beta-glucans, like our very own Cordyceps mushroom extract. For more information about buying mushroom supplements and what to look out for, visit our article on the difference between mycelium and fruiting bodies for medicinal uses.
*Disclaimer: The statements made in this article have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Any products mentioned are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The information in this article is intended for educational purposes. The information is not intended to replace medical advice offered by licensed medical physicians. Please consult your doctor or health practitioner for any medical advice.
Spring is the ultimate time for targeted detoxification. A spring cleanse in 2022 may be more necessary than other years due to the pandemic and its impact on health routines and an increase in stress.
The word detoxification means to remove a harmful substance. These harmful substances can come from our environment (think diet, chemicals, pollution) or from internal processes in our body (bacterial by-products from poor or incomplete digestion). There are popular detox or cleanses out there that involve celery or juice fasting, and restricting calories. But these trends can sometimes leave some people confused and worse off than before.
A common thread of all these detox programs is they eliminate processed foods. There are some benefits to fasting, but consistent under-eating may decrease the number of minerals, amino acids, and co-factors you actually need for proper detoxification. Fasting as a dietary habit may actually impact thyroid, insulin, and cortisol function as well.
Firstly, think of detox as a daily or long-term strategy rather than a miserable two weeks of using laxative teas. However, a short, focused set of strategies can help kickstart healthier habits throughout the year.
The following article will outline 9 focus areas to understand and incorporate into your spring cleanse protocol so that you can achieve functional and healthful detoxification. You will also learn which mushroom extracts you can incorporate to support each of these 9 detox focus areas.
A) Spring Cleanse Your 6 Detox Organs
B) Spring Cleanse Your Nutrition
The major detoxification organs in your body, also known as your emunctories, are your liver, kidney, colon, lymphatic, and skin. Environmental and internal toxins, along with stress, can decrease the function of your main detox organs. We guide you through the function of each of your emunctories, how you can support them, and what mushroom extracts can be used to enhance their performance.
The liver functions in distinct phases to detoxify harmful substances from your body.
Phase 1 is all about converting toxins using the family of enzymes known as the P-450 system via three reactions: oxidation. reduction and hydrolysis.
Phase 1 changes the toxins into something more usable for phase 2. This second phase innately creates a lot of free radicals as it’s dealing with harmful, reactive molecules. Therefore, having a diet and lifestyle that encourages ample antioxidants that will neutralize free radicals is what the body needs.
Healthy mushrooms are a source of ergothioneine and glutathione, two key antioxidants that can aid with oxidative stress in the body. In fact, healthy mushrooms are the top dietary source of ergothioneine out of any food (1).
Mushrooms also have compounds called beta-glucans that have been studied for their antioxidant properties. Studies on Chaga have also shown it to have substantial antioxidant properties (2).
Some mushrooms that may help support the liver, specifically, are reishi and shiitake. In fact, the triterpenes in reishi have been found to modulate processes related to liver function. There are in-vitro, animal, and human studies that demonstrate the possible hepatoprotective properties of Reishi (2). More research is needed to determine how molecules in mushrooms support the liver.
Other required co-factors for phase 1 of liver detox include: vitamins B, E, and C. Healthy mushrooms contain B vitamins, a small amount of vitamin C, selenium, zinc, vitamin D, and choline, all important nutrients for our body’s detoxification processes.
Phase 2 liver detox is all about conjugation, meaning it takes toxins that have been processed in phase 1 and adds different compounds to make it easier to excrete through your stool (via bile) or urine.
Co-factors required for phase 2 include cruciferous vegetables, citrus foods, resveratrol-rich foods, amino acids, vitamin B12, glutathione, sulfur, and minerals. Healthy mushrooms are a food rich in amino acids and are especially handy if you are vegan or vegetarian. They also contain important minerals like phosphorus, sodium, and calcium.
Bitter herbs and foods are important for the adequate release of bile. The liver releases bile and toxins that are stored in bile for elimination via the stool (and other emunctories when needed). Reishi is a bitter-tasting healthy mushroom that can interact with the bitter receptors in your body which support digestive function, vessel function, and possibly detoxification.
Your spring cleanse will best support your liver’s detoxification processes if it includes cruciferous vegetables, citrus, resveratrol-rich foods (such as grapes, cranberries, and peanuts). Use a reishi mushroom supplement to support healthy liver function and a chaga supplement to add a powerful antioxidant punch to your diet.
Kidneys flush water-soluble toxins detoxed from the liver out of the body while keeping important electrolytes and minerals. Kidneys remove extra acid produced by reactions and metabolism in the body, thereby keeping our acid-base balance in check. When the bowels are not moving well, and/or the liver is taxed, toxins spill into the blood to be cleared by the kidneys.
High blood pressure, puffiness or water retention, and low energy could be signs of decreased kidney function.
Although there is no single physiological detox action you can do to support the kidneys, it is important to support a healthy lifestyle with foundational strategies like stress management, water and electrolyte intake, decreasing toxins, and avoiding substances that increase blood pressure and stress on the kidneys, such as excess sodium and caffeine. Healthy mushrooms contain minerals that can support the body’s electrolyte needs, such as potassium and magnesium.
Interconnected with the kidneys are the adrenal glands. The adrenal glands are responsible for the release of stress hormones such as cortisol, adrenaline, and noradrenaline. The adrenal glands are a key indicator of one’s level of vitality and stress management - two important things to consider when thinking about detoxification.
Many of the healthy mushrooms are classified as adaptogens meaning they can help the body develop resilience to stress through their unique compounds. Reishi is particularly good at helping to calm and balance the body.
Your spring cleanse will best support your kidney function if you increase your water and electrolyte intake, reduce sodium and caffeine intake, and manage your stress levels. Consider taking a supplement of reishi, touted as the most versatile functional mushroom, to help balance and calm your body and make it resilient to stresses.
Bowel movements and healthy poops are a top priority when looking to start a detoxification journey. Having a bowel movement at least once and up to 3 times per day is considered healthy.
We need daily elimination to remove the conjugated toxins released into the stool. There are many factors that can impede proper bowel function including spinal misalignments, poor thyroid function, poor nutrients/vitamin or mineral status, stress (holding on), microbiome alterations or dysbiosis, dehydration, and poor diet.
High fiber diets provide bulk for the stool and can act as a binding agent along the way. Healthy mushrooms have around 1 gram of fiber per 1 cup (approximately 70 grams of raw mushrooms). Also, exercise can improve the function and structure of our gut health.
Increased gut wall permeability, and food sensitivities or intolerances can increase gut inflammation which may contribute to constipation and a dysfunctional bowel. Oxidative stress and antioxidant depletion may enhance gut wall permeability. Therefore, antioxidants are necessary to support healthy mucosal barrier function. (3,4,5). Healthy mushrooms that are loaded with antioxidants, such as Chaga, may be of interest here for antioxidant supportive effects (2). Chaga also stimulates bile flow, which is important for fat digestion.
Your spring cleanse can best support your colon and gut health by including foods high in fiber and antioxidants. Consider adding a Chaga supplement for an antioxidant boost and support for healthy digestion.
If toxins and elimination wastes aren’t removed through the liver, gut, and kidneys then these will back up into the skin or lymph. Skin is not an efficient “detoxer” — pores get congested, and skin manifestations occur.
It is healthy to support the skin on a regular basis via sweating. Sweating is easier in the summer but harder in the winter to achieve. Sweating can excrete certain heavy metals and lipid-soluble waste products. Sweat is also very healing for the skin, as it has inherent antimicrobial properties.
Skin brushing can support both the skin via exfoliation and the lymphatic systems via increased lymph drainage. Sauna, exercise, healthy skin products, hydrotherapy, and massage are all efficient means to support this organ of elimination.
Tremella mushroom and Chaga extract powders can be used internally and topically to support healthy skin. Explore our article on mushrooms and skincare for ways to use various mushroom extracts to benefit your body’s largest organ.
To support your skin health during your spring cleanse, sweating and exfoliating are recommended. Now would be a good time to visit a hammam or sauna and to receive a full-body salt scrub. Exercise regularly, stay well hydrated and consider taking a tremella supplement or Chaga supplement to support healthy skin rejuvenation.
The lymphatic system is made up of lymph fluid, lymph nodes, vessels, and other key organs like the spleen, thymus, GALT, tonsils, and adenoids. This system becomes important for health maintenance because of the connections it has with many systems of the body: circulatory, immune, and endocrine, for example.
This system is crucial in helping the body defend against infection (by producing and delivering key immune cells, known as lymphocytes) and in transporting and removing waste products from the body’s different organs, tissues and cells.
When lymphatic fluid has proper flow, the wastes and toxins can make their way into the blood and to other emunctories. Unlike the heart, the lymphatic system needs help from muscles or some form of movement to propel the lymph fluid through the body. Exercise, lymphatic massage, electrolytes, rebounding, vibration, hydrotherapy, and sweating can help support the lymphatic system.
Adaptogenic mushrooms, such as cordyceps, reishi, or lion’s mane, are a great coffee replacement to sustain healthy energy levels so you can keep moving your body and keep your lymphatic system happy and healthy. Also, one of the mushroom’s main mechanisms of action takes place in the lymphatic tissue in our digestive system. To learn more about this check out our beta-d-glucan article.
The lymphatic system also helps our brains detoxify during deep sleep when toxins and wastes are removed from our central nervous system. This is known as the glymphatic system. Proper melatonin secretion is needed for this to work. Sleep is a time for deep healing, as our sleep-wake cycle hormones and nervous system tone act as conductors for our hormone and immune systems. Reishi has been used traditionally to aid in sleep support.
Exercising your muscles will help to keep your lymphatic system flowing well as you undertake your spring cleanse. Rebounding on a mini-trampoline is a good exercise for promoting the circulation of lymphatic fluid, but brisk walking and other forms of activity will do the same. Consider getting a massage that focuses on lymphatic drainage. Also, consider using a reishi supplement to promote restful sleep so that you can properly detoxify your central nervous system.
Our lungs expel waste products in the form of volatiles and gases daily. Our lungs also ensure the rich oxygenation that our cells and mitochondria require for optimal detoxification.
Traditionally, cordyceps mushrooms were used for tonifying the lungs in Chinese medicine. Cordyceps also has some evidence suggesting it may impact athletic performance, depending on someone’s existing lung function (6).
Our lungs are also a key organ for stress management, as breath awareness and breathing exercises provide a direct gateway to our autonomic nervous system — the original biofeedback.
To support your lung health during your spring cleanse, consider taking a cordyceps mushroom supplement. Now is also a time to incorporate mindful breathwork into your daily routine if you haven’t already. While it likely goes without saying, eliminating smoking of any kind and minimizing exposure to air pollution are essential for optimal lung health.
A spring cleanse is an opportunity to address health concerns that may be caused by or exacerbated by what you eat. One of the problems that can occur from an improper diet is toxemia.
Toxemia, also known as metabolic endotoxemia, is an immune response that becomes a driver of persistent, smoldering inflammatory processes due to endotoxins, the most common being lipopolysaccharides (LPS).
An increase in LPS (and other endotoxins) results in increases in inflammation. Inflammation is a risk factor for pain, decreased mental clarity, and low energy.
As bacteria in our gut die, they create LPS which is part of the outside wall structure of gram-negative bacteria. These LPS particles create inflammation by getting through tight junctions in your gut (i.e. gut wall permeability — think little holes in your intestinal lining which are very thin in width). Around 65-75% of bacteria in our guts are gram-negative.
Nutrition and lifestyle are two big factors that can lead to toxemia. If you are eating foods that don’t agree with your body then your body doesn’t digest them properly and over time, can lead to toxemia. If digestion and absorption are weak, then toxemia is more likely to occur because of the partially digested foods which then feed the inflammatory bacteria referred to above.
Toxemia can lead to long-term inflammation and dysbiosis which is not conducive to creating optimal health.
In order to avoid toxemia, eliminate foods from your diet that you can’t digest properly or that cause inflammation in your body.
This is unique to every individual but the major foods to consider removing to see if they have this negative effect on you include dairy, processed sugar, refined foods, and gluten for some.
Enhancing stomach acid production through bitter foods (artichokes, dandelion, bitter greens), activating the parasympathetic nervous system (stress reduction), and using mushroom extracts like Chaga to support gut health are recommended.
Oxidative damage happens anytime there is an imbalance between the number of free radicals and antioxidants in the body. Free radicals are highly reactive molecules that accumulate in the body from major reactions (e.g. liver detox, exercise, sun exposure). When there aren’t enough antioxidants to counteract their numbers, an excess of free radicals can lead to damage of fatty tissue, DNA, and proteins in your body.
Oxidative damage will more commonly occur when the body is taxed from environmental toxins, stress, indigestion, other detrimental effects on the body’s natural state of functioning.
A common symptom of oxidative damage is excessive inflammation. Excessive inflammation can look like: joint pain, heaviness, brain fog, skin issues, low energy, low sex drive, poor sleep, and much more.
Your spring cleanse is an opportune time to address excess inflammation and oxidative damage in the body. The main takeaways are to eat a diet rich in colors, flavonoids, and antioxidants (such as those found in an ergothioneine supplement).
To decrease unnecessary oxidative stress, also focus on regulating your circadian rhythm, staying hydrated, and getting restful sleep. Decreasing oxidative stress requires limiting the number of toxins and chemicals you are exposed to through your food, toiletries, environment, and from overworking the body (chronic stress). Optimize your rest with the tips found in our sleep article, and you will help support the resilience of your internal systems.
If you want a simple, earthy, and very effective elixir for supporting your detoxification organs through the spring and into the rest of the year, mushroom tea is good as it gets!
If you choose to give your body a break from stimulants like caffeine during your spring cleanse, this tea will be a useful body-boosting, brain-waking replacement.
Renown medicinal herbalist, Lee Carroll, has shared with us his recipe for mushroom tea:
For breakfast I drink a blend of Reishi, Chaga, Turkey tail, and Tremella powder in hot water (about 1 tsp of powder extract each). No cream, milk or sugar. I like to drink it strong so I don’t add much water, about 3 ounces. Tremella gives it a smooth edge. I love the taste and love the medicinal conversation we have together as I savor the earthy richness and depth. The Tremella gives my aging brain a noticeable cognitive boost. It’s my Coffee substitute. If you put the words My and Coffee together, you get Myco-ffee!
This robust recipe is an ideal and comprehensive nutritional boost for your spring cleanse. It contains B vitamins, sulfur compounds, amino acids, healthy fats, is fiber-rich, and contains immunomodulating polysaccharides from mushrooms.
Makes 4 servings
Best served in big bowls. Plates also work.
As referenced in this guide, eating many green vegetables, including leafy greens, bitter greens, and cruciferous veggies, is ideal for supporting your organs of detoxification during your spring cleanse. This recipe is a delicious way to prepare your greens and packs a punch of B vitamins, healthy fats, antioxidants, and the skin-rejuvenating power of tremella extract.
Click the button below to sock up on the mushroom supplements to support your spring cleanse:
We’ve compiled 9 of our crowd-favorite vegetarian winter recipes for simple but comforting meals to help you stay satisfied and healthy through the season. These meals, drinks, and snacks are packed with beneficial superfood ingredients, including our organic mushroom extracts to help support cognition, energy, and immune system function.
Each year during the change of seasons our immune systems can take a dip, so too can our mood and energy levels. These medicinal mushroom enhanced recipes can help keep you on top of your game.
The golden milk trend is here to stay and we couldn’t be happier. From the anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric to it’s earthy yet sweet flavor, this rhizome continues to be a fan favorite. We’ve created two versions: one for the morning and the other for evenings.
Which do you prefer?
We have two amazing spiced pumpkin pie latte recipes: a traditional hot latte and a cold smoothie adaptation!
Of course, our Pumpkin Spice Latte, withholds the artificial ingredients, flavors, preservatives, starches, and fillers and adds an extra dose of immune-boosting Turkey Tail mushroom extract.
This second recipe is prepared as a cold smoothie but it’s delicious warmed up for an elixir style beverage! If you don’t have the pre-made cold brew, you can make your own by adding any traditional “pumpkin spice” blend to your coffee.
In certain traditions, a chai spice recipe is passed down between generations within a family. Families will have their own particular take on the blend of spices, and it’s often kept as a “family secret.” We created a special Chaga Chai Latte and we’d like to pass it on from our family to yours!
Once you open your pumpkin puree can for the aforementioned Pumpkin Spice Latte, you can use the extra puree to make these simple Pumpkin Pie Spice Protein Bars. These bars are made with just a touch of sweetener to elevate the spices, so you don’t have to worry about a sugar crash! The mushroom of choice for this recipe is Lion’s Mane, though we’ve enjoyed others such as Reishi and Chaga.
These cinnamon “sugar” warm bites of love are a perfect winter weekend treat. As always, we’ve incorporated a Real Mushrooms extract powder into the recipe: Lion’s Mane. Known to support having healthy neurons and brain cell communication, Lion’s Mane is commonly referred to as the “focus and brain” mushroom.3 Bake a double batch and keep extras in the fridge for an easy weekday morning snack! Get the full recipe here or watch the video below:
It’s a classic winter combo, peppermint chocolate, with a fun twist. The bold flavors of chocolate, peppermint, and our 5 Defenders Powder mix wonderfully with the sweet potato. Perfect as a special holiday dessert or even as a random act of self-love! This Peppermint Chocolate Sweet Potato cake is a guilt-free delight.
As it gets darker earlier in the day, it’s nice to have something warm but simple for dinner. This oven-baked mushroom dinner is ready in under 45 min - including cooking time! It’s as simple as:
Some things are classics for a reason and we think a good butternut squash soup is no exception. Fall harvests bring bounties of squash varieties that are great for soup season. Butternut squash is one of those soup staples you’ll want in your recipe lexicon! Now is also the time to double-down on protecting our immune systems from colds and flus. This soup is a warm and comforting way to get the health benefits of mushrooms by not only adding medicinal mushroom extracts but by using a base of mushroom broth. After you watch the video below, you can find the full recipe details here.
The complex, full flavor of this Chaga enhanced mole recipe is worth every ingredient on the list. A good sauce can be a flavor game-changer and this easy, 20-minute mole delivers just that! It pairs Real Mushrooms Chaga Powder with a touch of cacao for depth and warmth from the chili and cumin powder. It’s great when used on all types of proteins, vegetables, and of course, mushrooms!
By the way, if you’re wondering if heat affects the efficacy of your mushrooms in these recipes (it doesn’t) check out our in-depth guide to dual-extraction. As always, we are not only fully transparent in our supply chain and ensure the highest possible quality, but we are also very passionate about sharing and educating every chance we get. We aim to supply the very best in an easy-to-use way because we believe in your worth and value, your time and money.
We hope these functional mushroom-infused recipes can give you a boost this fall and winter. Our organic, fruiting body mushroom extracts can be used not only in the recipes above but in a variety of ways! Follow us on Instagram @realmushrooms to see how other Real Mushrooms fans are using their extracts!
