Cordyceps

Cordyceps

Cordyceps Militaris

Fruiting Body (Stroma)

Bright orange to reddish-orange, club-shaped or cylindrical structures that can grow 2–8 cm tall and about 0.2–0.5 cm thick.

Surface

Smooth to slightly roughened, often with a vibrant, almost flame-like orange color.

Shape

Typically upright and slender, sometimes slightly swollen or branched at the tip.

Texture

Firm and fleshy when fresh, becoming more brittle and dry with age.

Fruiting Structures (Perithecia)

Tiny flask-shaped reproductive structures embedded beneath the surface, giving a slightly bumpy texture.

Mycelium

Fine white threads (mycelial mat) at the base that attach to the host (usually moth larvae or pupae).

In cultivation and supplements, you’ll usually see Cordyceps Militaris as clusters of bright orange clubs sprouting from a rice-based or grain substrate, rather than directly from insects as in the wild which are known under a different name of Cordyceps Sinensis.

Cordyceps Militaris can also be found growing from deceased insects too but it much easier to cultivate as opposed to the Sinensis variety.

So let's explore how Cordyceps Sinensis compares to the Cordyceps Militaris we use at Valley Mushrooms!

Cordyceps Sinensis (Ophiocordyceps sinensis)

• Naturally grows out of a mummified ghost moth larva (Hepialus armoricanus and related species) as opposed to our grain based substrate variety.
• Looks like a dried brown caterpillar with a thin, dark brown club-shaped fruiting body emerging from its head as opposed to the variety we use which is much smoother in appearance.
• The fruiting body is 1–4 cm long and much less vibrant than militaris.
• Found wild in the Tibetan Plateau, Himalayas, Nepal, Bhutan, and northern India, at 3,000–5,000m elevation.
• Extremely difficult to cultivate on insects, so most supplements are not true sinensis but cultured mycelium (CS-4 strain).
• Colour is Brown to dark brown as opposed to the Militaris variety we use which is bright vibrant orange.
• Considered the “Himalayan gold” of traditional medicine. Wild-harvested specimens are extremely rare and expensive (can be more valuable than gold by weight).

• Cordyceps sinensis = rare, brown caterpillar fungus from the Himalayas (Ophiocordyceps).
• Cordyceps militaris = bright orange, cultivated club fungus with higher cordycepin, sustainable and affordable.

• Bioactive Compounds - Both contain cordycepin & adenosine however, Militaris has higher cordycepin levels making it more potent in lab tests.
• Traditional Medicine - Sinensis has the long history within traditional Chinese medicine as a qi/energy tonic, while Militaris is the modern cultivated substitute which is much more sustainable.
• Market -

Militaris = cultivated, accessable, powerful

Cordyceps Militaris – Habitat (wild)

Host

Parasitizes insects, mainly the pupae and larvae of moths and butterflies (Lepidoptera).

Location

Grows directly out of the insect body once the fungus consumes it.

Soil

Usually seen sprouting from the ground, moss, or leaf litter where the insect host is buried.

Distribution

Found in Asia, Europe, and North America. It is much more widespread than Ophiocordyceps sinensis.

Climate

Prefers cool, temperate, and humid forest environments.

Cultivation Habitat (modern use)

• Successfully cultivated on nutrient-rich substrates such as rice, millet, soy, or liquid broths.
• Indoor farms maintain 18–24 °C temperatures, high humidity, and low light, which mimic natural conditions.

Both!

Cordyceps Militaris – Culinary Edibility

It is considered safe and is sometimes eaten as both a food and a functional, nootropic ingredient.

Texture & Taste

• Fruiting bodies are slender, soft, and slightly chewy.
• Mild, slightly nutty and earthy flavour, not strong like shiitake or reishi.

• In East Asian cuisine, it is added to soups, stews, and broths for both flavour and medicinal value.
• Can be steamed, simmered, stir-fried, or infused into teas.

Much easier to consume than woody fungi like reishi or chaga, since militaris has a tender fruiting body.

Cordyceps Militaris – Functional Consumption

• While edible as food, most people consume it in powdered or extract form to get concentrated health benefits.
• Sometimes dried and ground into powder for smoothies, capsules, or extracts.

Cordyceps Militaris – Origin

Cordyceps militaris was first described in 1753 by Carl Linnaeus, originally under the name Clavaria militaris. Later, it was reclassified into the genus Cordyceps by the mycologist Elias Magnus Fries in 1818.

It has a long history of use in traditional East Asian medicine, particularly in China, Japan, and Korea, where it was valued as a tonic for vitality, stamina, and recovery. Unlike Ophiocordyceps sinensis (the rare Himalayan caterpillar fungus), C. militaris was more widely available across temperate regions, which made it easier to study and eventually cultivate.

So, its scientific origin is European (first described by Linnaeus), but its medicinal/cultural origin is rooted in East Asian traditions where it was used as a natural energy and wellness mushroom.

Cordyceps Militaris – Distribution

• Geographic Range (Wild): Found widely across the Northern Hemisphere.
• Naturally distributed in Asia, Europe, and North America.
• Reported in countries including China, Japan, Korea, Nepal, Thailand, India, Bhutan, United States, Canada, and much of Europe.

• Today, Cordyceps militaris is widely cultivated indoors in controlled environments.
• Major cultivation centers are in China, Korea, Japan, and increasingly in the U.S. and Europe for supplement and research markets.

Macronutrients & Bioactive Compounds

(per 100 g dried fruiting bodies, approximate)

Protein: ~25–35 g

Carbohydrates: ~50–60 g

Dietary Fiber: ~10–15 g

Fat: ~2–5 g

Calories: ~300 kcal

Like many medicinal mushrooms, C. militaris is high in protein and complex carbohydrates, but low in fat.

Key Bioactive Compounds

• Cordycepin (3’-deoxyadenosine): Unique to Cordyceps; known for antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer activity.
• Adenosine: Supports energy metabolism, circulation, and ATP production.
• Polysaccharides (β-glucans): Immunomodulatory, antioxidant, and support gut health.
• Sterols (ergosterol, etc.): Precursor to vitamin D2; supports cholesterol regulation.
• Peptides & Proteins (CSP – Cordyceps-specific proteins): Shown to have immunological effects.
• Phenolic Compounds & Flavonoids: Contribute to antioxidant capacity.

• B1 (Thiamine) – supports energy metabolism.
• B2 (Riboflavin) – helps cellular energy production.
• B3 (Niacin) – important for enzyme function and circulation.
• B5 (Pantothenic acid) – supports adrenal and metabolic function.
• B6 (Pyridoxine) – aids neurotransmitter and protein metabolism.
• B12 (Cobalamin) – trace amounts reported; supports nerve and blood health.
• Vitamin E (Tocopherols): antioxidant properties.
• Vitamin K (small amounts): contributes to blood clotting and bone support.

Fruiting bodies of Cordyceps militaris provide a range of essential minerals in trace to moderate amounts:

• Calcium (Ca) – supports bone and muscle health.
• Magnesium (Mg) – important for energy production, nerve and muscle function.
• Potassium (K) – regulates fluid balance, heart and muscle activity.
• Sodium (Na) – present in small amounts; maintains hydration and nerve signaling.
• Phosphorus (P) – critical for ATP (cellular energy) and bone health.
• Iron (Fe) – supports oxygen transport in blood.
• Zinc (Zn) – immune function, wound healing, enzyme activity.
• Copper (Cu) – assists with iron metabolism and antioxidant enzymes.
• Manganese (Mn) – antioxidant support, enzyme function.
• Selenium (Se) – antioxidant defense, thyroid function.

Cordyceps Militaris Extract - Potential Supplement Aid For It's Energising Properties Enhancing Stamina, Athletic Performance & Overall Wellness - Based On Scientific Trials

Cordyceps militaris enhances the body’s production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the main energy currency of cells. By improving the efficiency of oxygen use and energy metabolism, it can reduce fatigue, increase endurance, and support overall physical performance.

Cordyceps militaris has traditionally been used to strengthen the lungs and improve oxygen uptake. Research suggests it can enhance respiratory efficiency, ease breathing, and may benefit conditions linked to low oxygen utilization, such as fatigue or reduced stamina.

Cordyceps militaris contains beta-glucans and polysaccharides that help balance immune activity. Instead of simply boosting immunity, it modulates the system—enhancing defense when needed while reducing overactive responses. This supports resistance to infections and promotes overall immune resilience.

Compounds in Cordyceps militaris, especially cordycepin and polysaccharides, help reduce excessive inflammation in the body. By regulating inflammatory pathways, it may ease chronic inflammation, support joint health, and protect tissues from damage caused by overactive immune responses.

Cordyceps militaris is rich in bioactive compounds that neutralize free radicals, reducing oxidative stress. This antioxidant activity helps protect cells and tissues from damage, slows down aging processes, and supports overall cellular health.

Cordyceps militaris may enhance memory, focus, and learning ability by protecting nerve cells from oxidative stress and inflammation. Its compounds help shield neurons from degeneration, supporting long-term brain health and potentially reducing the risk of age-related cognitive decline.

Cordyceps militaris can help regulate glucose metabolism and improve insulin sensitivity. Studies suggest it may lower high blood sugar levels, support pancreatic function, and help maintain stable energy, making it potentially beneficial for people managing diabetes or metabolic disorders.

Cordyceps militaris may improve blood flow and circulation, help lower cholesterol and triglycerides, and support healthy blood pressure. These effects promote cardiovascular health and reduce strain on the heart, contributing to overall vascular well-being.

Cordyceps militaris contains cordycepin and polysaccharides that have shown anti-tumor activity in laboratory and animal studies. These compounds may slow cancer cell growth, promote apoptosis (programmed cell death), and inhibit the spread of malignant cells. Research is still ongoing, and while promising, these effects are not yet confirmed in large-scale human trials.

Cordyceps militaris has traditionally been used as a natural aphrodisiac. Research suggests it may increase libido, improve sperm quality, and support fertility by enhancing testosterone levels and improving energy metabolism. It is also believed to help reduce fatigue-related sexual dysfunction.

Cordyceps militaris contains bioactive compounds, particularly cordycepin, that exhibit activity against certain bacteria, viruses, and fungi in laboratory studies. These properties suggest it may help the body resist infections and maintain a healthier microbial balance, though more human research is still needed.

Cordyceps militaris has been shown to support liver and kidney function by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in these organs. Its compounds may help prevent tissue damage, improve detoxification processes, and support recovery from toxin exposure or chronic strain on these vital systems.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

Used for centuries as a tonic to strengthen the lungs, kidneys, and overall vitality. It was valued for restoring energy, enhancing endurance, and balancing yin and yang.

• Respiratory Health

• Longevity & Vitality

• Reproductive Health

• General Weakness & Recovery

• Immune Defense

Early Mentions in TCM Texts (circa 15th–16th century)

While Cordyceps sinensis is more frequently recorded, Cordyceps militaris was also referenced in medical compendiums for its similar tonic effects.

Ben Cao Cong Xin (New Compilation of Materia Medica, 1757)

Cordyceps was described as strengthening the lungs and kidneys, improving stamina, and aiding recovery from weakness.

Qing Dynasty (1644–1912)

Records note Cordyceps as a prized substance among nobility and physicians, used to restore vitality in the elderly and treat respiratory ailments.

Daoist & Herbalist Traditions

Known as an “immortality fungus” and sometimes grouped with other longevity tonics like Reishi.

Trade & Rarity

Though Cordyceps sinensis was more famous and expensive, Cordyceps militaris was widely recognized as a more accessible alternative with comparable benefits in classical herbal practice.

20th Century Cultivation Breakthroughs (1930s–1950s)

Researchers in China and Japan developed methods to cultivate Cordyceps militaris artificially, making it more accessible compared to the rare and costly wild Cordyceps sinensis.

1960s–1980s Scientific Studies

Early pharmacological research identified bioactive compounds such as cordycepin, adenosine, and polysaccharides, sparking interest in its medicinal potential.

1990s Rise in Global Attention

Cordyceps gained popularity among athletes after being linked to improved endurance and oxygen uptake, particularly during reports of record-breaking performances in China.

21st Century Research Boom

Studies expanded worldwide, focusing on its effects on immunity, energy, anti-cancer activity, metabolic health, and neuroprotection.

Biotechnology & Commercial Cultivation

Advances in fermentation and cultivation techniques allowed standardized extracts and supplements, making Cordyceps militaris one of the most widely studied and commercially available functional mushrooms today.

Modern Integrative Medicine

Now widely used in nutraceuticals, functional foods, and supplements, recognized for its adaptogenic and therapeutic potential.