Overview
Medicinal fungus studied for aerobic capacity and immune modulation.
- Cordyceps militaris (lab-grown)
- CS-4 strain
- Cordyceps militaris extract
Forms & variants of Cordyceps
Different chemical forms of Cordyceps behave differently. Browse each form's mechanism, bioavailability, and best-use context.
Mechanism of action
Cordycepin (3'-deoxyadenosine) modulates ATP and immune signaling.
- · Adenosine signaling
- · Immune modulation
Effects on the body
Organ system effects
Modulates NK cell activity.
Evidence-based benefits
Modestly improves aerobic capacity in untrained
Moderate evidencePotential side effects
- · Cordyceps is generally well-tolerated at evidence-based doses
- · Mild GI discomfort (nausea, loose stools, or bloating) possible at higher intakes
- · Headache or transient fatigue reported by a small fraction of users
- · Allergic or hypersensitivity reaction (rash, itching, swelling)
- · Sleep disturbance if taken late in the day
- · Discontinue and seek medical advice if symptoms are severe, persistent, or include difficulty breathing
Drug interactions
Safety & non-supplemental interactions
Educational summary — always confirm with your clinician or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or combining with prescription therapy.
- ·Pregnant or breastfeeding (insufficient safety data)
- ·Children under 18 (unless directed by a clinician)
- ·Autoimmune disease (theoretical immune activation)
- ·Immunosuppressants
Supplement interactions
- Vitamin D3 + K2Foundational immune modulation.
- ZincRequired cofactor for innate and adaptive immune function.
No specific avoidances listed.
Dosing & bioavailability
Where to buy
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Third-party testedIndependently verified Cordyceps — look for USP, NSF, or Informed Sport seals on the label for purity and dose accuracy.Cordyceps third party tested NSF
CapsulesPre-measured Cordyceps capsules — easiest for travel and consistent daily dosing without scoops or scales.Cordyceps capsules
PowderBulk unflavored Cordyceps powder — best cost-per-gram and flexible dosing for stacking or mixing into drinks.Cordyceps powder unflavored
Best sellersMost-purchased Cordyceps products on Amazon — a quick way to see what's reviewed widely before you commit.Cordyceps best sellerScientific evidence8Show studiesHide studies
Cordyceps sinensis and exercise performance
Chen S, et al.
12-week RCT of CS-4 Cordyceps in healthy older adults.
Improved VO2 max and metabolic threshold vs placebo.
PubMed: Cordyceps — Modestly improves aerobic capacity in untrained
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PubMed: Cordyceps — randomized controlled trial
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PubMed: Cordyceps — meta-analysis
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PubMed: Cordyceps — pharmacokinetics
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PubMed: Cordyceps — safety adverse events
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PubMed: Cordyceps — dose response
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Google Scholar: Cordyceps — clinical evidence
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Cross-database citation index for Cordyceps as it relates to "clinical evidence".
Includes preprints, theses, and journal articles. Useful for tracking citation counts and follow-on work.