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Cordyceps

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A unique plant derived adaptogen used in medicine since ages

  • Supports whole body health
  • Boosts sexual and reproductive functions
  • Protective effects on kidney and liver
  • Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties
  • Boosts energy levels and reduces fatigue
  • Increases resistance to stress
  • Supports the body's natural immunity
  • It has an European BIO certificate and ecological glass packaging
  • Product is suitable for vegetarians due to Vcaps® capsule

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Cordyceps

525 mg, 60 capsules

Item Catalog Number: K2530EN

Original product name: Cordyceps

A unique plant derived adaptogen used in medicine since ages

The ethnopharmacological use of Cordyceps sinensis has been reported from western Nepal for the cure of different diseases like diarrhea, headache, cough, rheumatism, liver disease, etc. This herb is also referred as “Himalayan Viagra” or “Himalayan Gold” due to its broad clinical and commercial value.[2,3] Cordyceps has been used also in traditional Chinese medicine since ages, for its metabolic and energy-producing effects and more.[1]

Cordyceps and its product have remarkable clinical health effects including action on hepatic, renal, cardiovascular, respiratory, nervous, sexual, immunological systems, besides having anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial activities.[4-9]

As known plant derived adaptogen, Cordyceps may work to modulate multiple stress pathways and help the body deal with stress. 

In Cordyceps, there occurs a wide range of nutritionally important components including various types of essential amino acids, vitamins like B1, B2, B12 and K, different kinds of carbohydrates such as monosaccharide, oligosaccharides and various medicinally important polysaccharides, proteins, sterols, nucleosides, and other trace elements.[10,11,12]

Benefits at a Glance:

  • Supports whole body health
  • Cordyceps boosts sexual and reproductive functions
  • Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties
  • Boosts energy levels and reduces fatigue
  • Protective effects on kidney and liver
  • Increases resistance to stress
  • Supports the body's natural immunity
  • It has an European BIO certificate and ecological glass packaging
  • Product is suitable for vegetarians due to Vcaps® capsule

Cordyceps boosts sexual and reproductive functions

Testosterone is necessary for normal sperm development. It activates genes in Sertoli cells, which promote differentiation of spermatogonia. Cordyceps has traditionally been used for the enhancement of sexual function in human beings.[16,17,23]

Evidence shows that Cordyceps sinensis can improve reproductive activity and restore impaired reproductive function. The supplementation of Cordyceps sinensis enhanced libido and sexual activity, and restored impaired reproductive function in both sexes in human.[16,17,23]

Protective effects on kidney and liver

Cordyceps sinensis has been used for the treatment of renal diseases, such as chronic nephritis, chronic pyelonephritis, chronic renal dysfunction or failure, and nephritic syndrome.[18,23]

Cordyceps has been used in clinical practice for the treatment of chronic hepatitis and related diseases [19]. Cordyceps has a potential enhancing effect on the immunological function of patients suffering from chronic hepatitis B [20] and from posthepatic cirrhosis [21]. Cordyceps was shown to inhibit and reverse liver fibrosis via degradation of collagen in rats with liver cirrhosis induced by dimethylnitrosamine.[22,23]

Cordyceps and the whole body health

Cordyceps has a long history of use as a lung and kidney tonic, and for the treatment of chronic diseases of the respiratory system (for example bronchitis, asthma and others).

Cordyceps also shows positive cardiovascular effects (it may lower high blood pressure via direct dilatory effects or mediated through M-cholinergic receptors which improves the coronary and cerebral blood circulation.[13]

Thus, Cordyceps has implications at the therapeutic level as well by rectifying the abnormalities in rhythmic contractions (also known as cardiac arrhythmia).[15]

Cordyceps being an ancient medicinal mushroom used as a crude drug for the welfare of mankind in old civilization is now a matter of great concern because of its unexplored potentials obtained by various culture techniques and being an excellent source of bioactive metabolites with more than 21 clinically approved benefits on human health including anti-diabetic, anti-oxidative, immunomodulatory, sexual potentiator and anti-ageing effects.[14]

Supplement Facts

Daily dose: 2 capsules

Amount Per Day (2 capsules)

Bio Cordyceps powder (Cordyceps sinesis), incl

[≥ 50% Polysaccharides ≥ 525 mg

≥ 15% 1,3-1,6 beta glucan ≥ 157,5 mg

≤ 5% alpha glucan ≤ 52,5 mg]

1 050 mg

Ingredients:  bio Cordyceps powder (Cordyceps sinesis);

capsule shell: hydroxypropyl methylcellulose


Vcaps® is a trademark of Lonza or its affiliates.

Dosage and Use

Take one (1) capsule 2 times daily or as recommended by a healthcare practitioner.

Warnings:

Before you start using any dietary supplement, consult your doctor. 

Dietary supplements are not medicines.

Do not exceed the recommended daily dose.

Dietary supplements cannot be used as a substitute for a varied diet.

Do not use in case of hypersensitivity to any ingredient of the preparation.

The product should not be used by pregnant or breastfeeding women and children and adolescents under 18 years of age.

  1. https://www.lifeextension.com/magazine/2014/2/beat-fatigue-and-boost-atp-production-with-powerful-herbal-duo
  2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3909570/
  3. Devkota S. Yarsagumba [Cordyceps sinensis (Berk.) Sacc.]; traditional utilization in Dolpa district, western Nepal. Our Nat. 2006;4:48–55
  4. Zhou X, Luo L, Dressel W, Shadier G, Krumbiegel D, Schmidtke P, Zepp F, Meyer CU. Cordycepin is an immunoregulatory active ingredient of Cordyceps sinensis. Am J Chin Med. 2008;36:967–980.
  5. Wang ZM, Peng X, Lee KLD, Tang JCO, Cheung PCK, Wu JY. Structural characterisation and immunomodulatory property of an acidic polysaccharide from mycelial culture of Cordyceps sinensis fungus Cs-HK1. Food Chem. 2011;125:637–643.
  6. Lee B, Park J, Park J, Shin HJ, Kwon S, Yeom M, Sur B, Kim S, Kim M, Lee H, Yoon SH, Hahm DH. Cordyceps militaris improves neurite outgrowth in neuro2A cells and reverses memory impairment in rats. Food Sci Biotechnol. 2011;20:1599–1608.
  7. Zhang XL, Cheng LB, Assaf SA, Phillips GO, Phillips AO. Cordyceps sinensis decreases TGF-b1 dependent epithelial to mesenchymal transdifferentiation and attenuates renal fibrosis. Food Hydrocolloids. 2012;28:200–212.
  8. Patel S, Goyal A. Recent developments in mushrooms as anti-cancer therapeutics: a review. 3 Biotech. 2012;2:1–15.
  9. Yue K, Ye M, Zhou Z, Sun W, Lin X. The genus Cordyceps: a chemical and pharmacological review. J Pharm Pharmacol. 2012
  10. Hyun H. Chemical ingredient of Cordyceps militaris. Mycobiology. 2008;36:233–235.
  11. Yang FQ, Feng K, Zhao J, Li SP. 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.
  12. 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.
  13. Zhu JS, Halpern GM, Jones K. The scientific rediscovery of a precious ancient Chinese herbal regimen: Cordyceps sinensis: part II. J Altern Complem Med. 1998;4:429–457.
  14. Das SK, Masuda M, Sakurai A, Sakakibara M. Medicinal uses of the mushroom Cordyceps militaris: current state and prospects. Fitoterapia. 2010;81:961–968.
  15. Chen DG. Effects of JinShuiBao capsule on the quality of life of patients with heart failure. J Admin Tradit Chin Med. 1995;5:40–43.
  16. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK92758/
  17. Zhu J. S, Halpern G. M, Jones K. The scientific rediscovery of a precious ancient Chinese herbal regimen: Cordyceps sinensis. Part I. J Altern Complement Med. 1998;4:289–303.
  18. Feng K, Yang Y. Q, Li S. P. Renggongchongcao. In: Li S. P, Wang Y. T, editors. Pharmacological Activity-Based Quality Control of Chinese Herbs. New York: Nova Science Publisher, Inc.; 2008. pp. 155–78.
  19. Zhao S. L. Advance of treatment for Cordyceps on chronic hepatic diseases. Shanxi Zhong Yi. 2000;16:59–60.
  20. Gong H. Y, Wang K. Q, Tang S. G. Effects of Cordyceps sinensis on T lymphocyte subsets and hepatofibrosis in patients with chronic hepatitis B. Hunan Yi Ke Da Xue Xue Bao. 2000;25:248–50.
  21. Zhu J. L, Liu C. Modulating effects of extractum semen Persicae and cultivated Cordyceps hyphae on immuno-dysfunction of inpatients with posthepatitic cirrhosis. Zhongguo Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi. 12(195):207–9.
  22. Wang X. B, Liu P, Tang Z. P. Intervening and therapeutic effect of Cordyceps mycelia extract on liver cirrhosis induced by dimethylnitrosamine in rats. Zhongguo Zhong Xi Yi JieHe Za Zhi. 2008;28:617–22.
  23. Iris F. F. Benzie and Sissi Wachtel-Galor. Herbal Medicine, 2nd edition Biomolecular and Clinical Aspects

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Scientific Sources

What makes Cordyceps unique among medicinal mushrooms?

Cordyceps, particularly Cordyceps militaris and Cordyceps sinensis, represents one of the most extensively researched medicinal fungi with distinctive bioactive compounds not found in other mushroom species. The mushroom contains cordycepin (3'-deoxyadenosine), a nucleoside analog with unique anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and metabolic effects, alongside polysaccharides, ergosterol, and cordycepic acid. Unlike many adaptogens that primarily modulate stress hormones, Cordyceps works fundamentally at the cellular energy level by enhancing mitochondrial ATP production through improved oxygen utilization and electron transport chain efficiency. This mechanism explains its traditional use in Tibetan medicine for altitude adaptation and modern applications for athletic performance. Research demonstrates Cordyceps increases cellular ATP by 18-28% and improves VO2 max by 7-11% in clinical trials. The mushroom also exhibits unique effects on kidney function, supporting healthy glomerular filtration and protecting against nephrotoxicity. Traditional wild Cordyceps commanded astronomical prices due to rarity and harvesting difficulty, but modern cultivation of Cordyceps militaris on substrate provides equivalent or superior bioactive content at accessible cost.

How does Cordyceps enhance athletic performance and endurance?

Cordyceps improves exercise capacity through multiple synergistic mechanisms centered on cellular energy optimization. The primary mechanism involves enhanced mitochondrial function—cordycepin and polysaccharides increase ATP synthase activity and improve electron transport chain efficiency, generating more energy per oxygen molecule consumed. This translates to measurable improvements in aerobic capacity, with studies showing 7-11% increases in VO2 max after 6-12 weeks of supplementation at 1-3 grams daily. Cordyceps also improves oxygen delivery by increasing erythropoietin production, enhancing red blood cell formation and oxygen-carrying capacity without the risks of synthetic EPO. Athletes report 15-20% improvements in time to exhaustion during endurance testing, alongside reduced lactate accumulation and faster recovery between training sessions. The anti-fatigue effects extend beyond physical performance—Cordyceps reduces perception of exertion, allowing maintenance of higher intensity with less perceived effort. Additional benefits include improved glucose utilization during exercise, enhanced fat oxidation sparing glycogen stores, and anti-inflammatory effects reducing exercise-induced muscle damage. Both recreational athletes and competitive performers experience measurable benefits, with effects more pronounced in endurance activities versus pure strength or power sports.

What sexual and reproductive health benefits does Cordyceps provide?

Cordyceps has extensive traditional use for sexual vitality and reproductive health, with modern research validating multiple mechanisms supporting these applications. In males, Cordyceps increases testosterone production through Leydig cell stimulation while improving sperm quality, count, and motility. Clinical trials show 30-40% improvements in sperm parameters and 20-33% increases in serum testosterone levels after 8-12 weeks of supplementation. The mushroom enhances sexual function through improved nitric oxide production supporting healthy blood flow, alongside energy-enhancing effects that counter fatigue-related sexual dysfunction. For erectile function specifically, studies demonstrate improvements comparable to phosphodiesterase inhibitors but through natural vascular and hormonal optimization. In females, Cordyceps supports hormonal balance and may improve fertility through enhanced ovarian function and oocyte quality. Both sexes benefit from the adaptogenic stress-reducing properties that counter cortisol-induced reproductive suppression. The libido-enhancing effects appear related to combined mechanisms: improved energy and reduced fatigue, hormonal optimization, enhanced vascular function, and stress resilience. Unlike pharmaceutical interventions, Cordyceps provides gradual improvements building over weeks, addressing root causes rather than symptom management. These effects make Cordyceps particularly valuable for age-related sexual decline and stress-impacted reproductive function.

How does Cordyceps support immune function and respiratory health?

Cordyceps exhibits sophisticated immune-modulating properties through polysaccharides and cordycepin that enhance innate and adaptive immunity. The beta-glucans in Cordyceps activate macrophages, natural killer cells, and dendritic cells, strengthening first-line immune defenses against pathogens. Research shows 40-50% increases in natural killer cell activity and enhanced phagocytic function of macrophages. Simultaneously, Cordyceps modulates T-cell populations, balancing Th1 and Th2 responses to prevent both immunodeficiency and excessive inflammatory reactions. This bidirectional modulation explains safety in autoimmune contexts unlike simple immune stimulants. For respiratory health specifically, Cordyceps demonstrates bronchodilating effects improving airflow in individuals with chronic respiratory conditions, with studies showing 15-30% improvements in forced expiratory volume measurements. The mushroom protects lung tissue from oxidative damage and reduces airway inflammation, making it valuable for exercise-induced bronchoconstriction, chronic bronchitis, and asthma management. Cordyceps also enhances oxygen utilization efficiency at the cellular level, providing dual respiratory benefits—improved lung function and better tissue oxygen extraction. The traditional Tibetan use for altitude sickness reflects these combined respiratory and cellular oxygen optimization effects, with modern research confirming reduced symptoms at high elevations.

What is the optimal dosing and timing for Cordyceps supplementation?

Clinical research supports 1-3 grams daily of quality Cordyceps extract, with specific dosing strategies depending on individual goals and extract potency. For athletic performance enhancement, studies typically utilize 1-3 grams daily taken consistently, with some athletes using 3-4 grams during intensive training phases. Pre-workout timing may provide acute benefits, though the primary effects build cumulatively over 4-12 weeks of regular use. For sexual and reproductive health, 2-3 grams daily split into morning and evening doses appears optimal based on testosterone and fertility research. Immune support and general vitality typically respond to 1-2 grams daily. Extract standardization matters significantly—look for products standardized to polysaccharides (typically 30-40%) and cordycepin content (0.3-1%), with Cordyceps militaris generally containing higher cordycepin than C. sinensis. Fruiting body extracts typically require lower doses than mycelium products due to higher bioactive concentration. Taking Cordyceps with meals may enhance absorption, though timing appears less critical than consistency. The energizing effects suggest morning or pre-workout dosing for some individuals, though Cordyceps rarely causes sleep disruption even with evening use. Effects build progressively—noticeable energy improvements within 1-2 weeks, athletic performance gains emerging over 4-8 weeks, and sexual/hormonal benefits typically requiring 8-12 weeks of consistent supplementation.

  • Cordycepin enhances mitochondrial ATP production increasing cellular energy by 18-28% - energy optimization
  • Cordyceps polysaccharides improve VO2 max by 7-11% enhancing aerobic capacity - athletic performance
  • Beta-glucans activate natural killer cells increasing activity by 40-50% - immune enhancement
  • Cordyceps increases testosterone by 20-33% supporting male reproductive health - hormonal optimization
  • Improved oxygen utilization efficiency reduces time to exhaustion by 15-20% - endurance support
  • Cordycepin demonstrates bronchodilating effects improving respiratory function - lung health
  • Polysaccharides enhance sperm quality count and motility by 30-40% - fertility support
  • Cordyceps reduces lactate accumulation supporting faster recovery between sessions - athletic recovery
  • Immune modulation balances Th1/Th2 responses preventing excessive inflammation - systemic balance
  • Enhanced nitric oxide production from Cordyceps supports vascular function - circulation support

  • Athletes seeking natural performance enhancement and improved endurance capacity
  • Men wanting to support healthy testosterone levels and reproductive function
  • Individuals experiencing chronic fatigue needing cellular energy optimization
  • People with compromised immune function seeking balanced immune support
  • Those with respiratory conditions wanting improved lung function naturally
  • Anyone concerned about sexual vitality and age-related decline
  • Individuals seeking adaptogenic support for stress resilience and recovery
  • People wanting to enhance oxygen utilization at high altitudes
  • Those interested in research-backed medicinal mushroom supplementation
  • Anyone combining exercise training with targeted performance supplementation

  • People with autoimmune conditions should consult physician before immune-modulating mushrooms
  • Those on immunosuppressants need medical guidance with Cordyceps supplementation
  • Individuals with bleeding disorders should use caution due to anticoagulant properties
  • Pregnant or nursing women should avoid due to insufficient safety data
  • People scheduled for surgery should discontinue two weeks prior
  • Those on diabetes medications should monitor glucose as Cordyceps affects sugar

  1. Take 1-3 grams Cordyceps extract daily for general vitality and immune support
  2. Athletes use 2-3 grams daily during training with possible increase to 4 grams intensively
  3. For sexual health take 2-3 grams split between morning and evening doses
  4. Choose extracts standardized to 30-40% polysaccharides and 0.3-1% cordycepin
  5. Take with meals to enhance absorption of bioactive compounds
  6. Allow 1-2 weeks for energy improvements and 4-8 weeks for performance gains
  7. Morning or pre-workout timing may provide additional acute energy benefits
  8. Combine with protein for athletes to support recovery and adaptation
  9. Maintain consistent daily use as benefits build cumulatively over time
  10. Consider cycling 8-12 weeks on with 2-4 weeks off for optimal long-term response

Results: Clinical trials demonstrate Cordyceps supplementation at 3 grams daily increases VO2 max by 7-11% and improves time to exhaustion by 15-20% in endurance testing after 6-12 weeks, with athletes reporting reduced perceived exertion during submaximal exercise.

Citation: Chen S, et al. J Altern Complement Med. 2010 May;16(5):585-90.

Results: Research shows Cordyceps increases cellular ATP production by 18-28% through enhanced mitochondrial function and electron transport chain efficiency, alongside improved glucose utilization and fat oxidation supporting sustained energy production.

Citation: Kumar R, et al. 3 Biotech. 2011 Sep;1(3):137-43.

Results: Studies reveal Cordyceps supplementation increases serum testosterone by 20-33% and improves sperm parameters with 30-40% improvements in count, motility, and morphology after 8-12 weeks in males with reproductive concerns.

Citation: Zhu JS, et al. J Altern Complement Med. 1998 Fall;4(3):289-303.

Results: Immune function studies show Cordyceps polysaccharides enhance natural killer cell activity by 40-50%, increase macrophage phagocytic function, and modulate T-cell populations balancing immune responses without overstimulation.

Citation: Ng TB, et al. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol. 2005 Sep;68(6):657-63.