Energy Boosting Benefits of Cordyceps

Ever stumbled upon a vibrant fungus resembling the shape of a caterpillar? If so, you might have encountered cordyceps, an incredible mushroom that has been used for hundreds of years to help improve energy and endurance.

These days, this fantastic fungi has continued to gain popularity due to its energy-boosting properties. Read on to discover more about the benefits of cordyceps, and learn more about its unique active compounds, history, and the best ways to consume it. 

History of Cordyceps 

Cordyceps, scientifically known as Cordyceps militaris, has been treasured for centuries in traditional Chinese and Tibetan medicine. Also known as the ‘caterpillar fungus’, it was historically harvested from high-altitude regions of the Himalayas, where it parasitised the larvae of certain caterpillar species. The use of cordyceps dates back over 1,000 years, with ancient texts documenting its use for promoting vitality, longevity, and overall health.

Where is Cordyceps grown?

Nowadays, cultivation typically involves growing the fungus on a substrate of grains or other nutrient-rich materials under controlled conditions. Our cordyceps is grown right here in Australia, where we utilise a method developed over decades by the world-famous mycologist, Paul Stamets, to grow them on organic brown rice. In this method, the mushroom consumes the brown rice as its food source. Once the mushroom is ready to harvest, it has consumed virtually all of the brown rice and what’s left is the mycelium and fruiting body.

What compounds does it contain?

Cordyceps mushrooms are renowned for their wide range of bioactive compounds, including polysaccharides, nucleosides, amino acids, and antioxidants. These compounds work together to support various aspects of health and well-being. One notable component is adenosine, a nucleoside that plays a key role in energy metabolism and cellular function. Cordyceps also contains a unique compound called cordycepin, which has potential antioxidant properties.

Many cordyceps on the market are grown as quickly as possible to maximise profits (usually less than 21 days). Our cordyceps is allowed to grow and mature for 45 or 60 days prior to harvest.

This maximises the amount of cordycepin and adenosine contained within the mushroom, so you can experience the maximum benefits of cordyceps.

What are the benefits of Cordyceps mushroom?

Cordyceps is best known for its ability to boost energy levels. Unlike stimulants (like coffee) which provide a sudden jolt of energy followed by a crash, cordyceps works by enhancing cellular energy production, offering a more sustained source of energy. This makes it an ideal super food for those seeking a natural energy boost.

Cordyceps has adaptogenic properties that help the body adapt to physical and mental stressors, leading to greater resilience and overall well-being.

Which is better – extracts, powders or whole mushroom?

Most cordyceps on the market are an extract with one specific compound diluted in alcohol or water. Our Australian Grown cordyceps is 100% whole food, so you benefit from its complete active compounds.

Our cordyceps is also freeze-dried to lock in (almost) as many nutrients and vitamins as consuming the mushroom fresh. It’s a very expensive process but one that we think is well worth the extra cost.

How best to consume?

One of the best ways to experience the benefits of cordyceps is by steeping it as a tea. To brew cordyceps tea, simply steep 3-5 pieces of cordyceps mushrooms in hot water for 3 minutes, allowing the beneficial compounds to infuse into the water.

It will have a subtle, earthy flavour with hints of sweetness, and is a great tea to enjoy any time of day. For added flavour and benefits, you can also blend cordyceps tea with other herbs or spices such as ginger or cinnamon, or add a dash of honey.