Cordyceps

Also known as: Cordyceps sinensis, Cordyceps militaris, caterpillar fungus, CS-4

Grade B — Moderate Evidencemushroomperformanceenergy
1000–4000 mgMorning or pre-workout. With or without food.

Medicinal mushroom with RCT evidence for improved VO2 max and exercise tolerance. 3-4g/day for athletic performance.

⚡Energy💪Muscle & Recovery🛡️Immunity
Last reviewed: 2026-03-11

Evidence

Grade B

Studies

2

Interactions

3

Forms

1

Evidence Rating: Grade B — Moderate Evidence

Some RCTs with positive results, or strong observational evidence. More research may refine our understanding.

Cycling Protocol

8 weeks on/2 weeks off

Medicinal mushroom cycling maintains efficacy of adenosine and cordycepin pathways

Interaction Warnings

ImmunosuppressantsModerate

May antagonize immunosuppressive drugs; caution post-transplant

Blood thinnersLow

Possible mild antiplatelet; monitor warfarin

Diabetes medicationsLow

May lower blood sugar; monitor

⚠️ Important Notes

  • Avoid raw powder without extraction (poor bioavailability)
  • Caution in autoimmune disease

Clinical Evidence (2 studies)

Cordyceps CS-4 improved VO2 max in elderly

Chen S et al. (2010) — J Altern Complement Med

Improved VO2 max and ventilatory threshold; RCT

View on PubMed

Cordyceps militaris improved VO2 max and time to exhaustion

Hirsch KR et al. (2017) — J Diet Suppl

4g improved VO2 max and time to exhaustion; randomized trial

View on PubMed

Alternatives to Consider

These supplements target similar goals and may be worth considering alongside or instead of Cordyceps.

Creatine Monohydrate

Grade A

One of the most researched supplements in history. Strong evidence for strength, power, and emerging evidence for brain function.

💪 Muscle & Recovery⚡ Energy

Beta-Alanine

Grade A

Increases muscle carnosine levels, buffering acid during high-intensity exercise. Well-supported for 1-4 min high-intensity efforts.

💪 Muscle & Recovery⚡ Energy

Citrulline

Grade B

Converts to arginine and boosts nitric oxide production. Improves exercise performance and blood flow.

💪 Muscle & Recovery⚡ Energy

Related Supplements

Creatine Monohydrate

Grade A — Strong Evidence

One of the most researched supplements in history. Strong evidence for strength, power, and emerging evidence for brain function.

Citrulline

Grade B — Moderate Evidence

Converts to arginine and boosts nitric oxide production. Improves exercise performance and blood flow.

Beta-Alanine

Grade A — Strong Evidence

Increases muscle carnosine levels, buffering acid during high-intensity exercise. Well-supported for 1-4 min high-intensity efforts.

Vitamin D3

Grade A — Strong Evidence

Essential hormone precursor. Most people in northern latitudes are deficient. Strong evidence for immunity, bone health, and mood.

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⚕️ Important Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen, especially if you take medications or have health conditions.

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