Cordyceps (Cordyceps militaris (L.) Fr. Ascomycota.) is a genus of parasitic fungi that grows on insects, most notably caterpillars, in high-altitude regions of Asia.
Cordyceps are a medicinal mushroom renowned for their centuries-long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine to treat fatigue, enhance athletic performance, and boost cognitive function.
This article explores the characteristics, benefits, and best uses of Cordyceps for cognitive enhancement.
Table of Contents
What Are Cordyceps?
Cordyceps (also known as caterpillar fungus, Dong Chong Xia Cao, or Tochukaso) are a type of fungus belonging to the Ascomycota phylum.
Cordyceps have earned the nickname ”Zombie Fungus”. However, unlike the undead as seen in The Walking Dead, these parasitic organisms infect insects (such as caterpillars and cicadas).
There are over 400 species of Cordyceps, but the most commonly used for medicinal purposes are:
- Cordyceps sinensis
- Cordyceps militaris
- Cordyceps ophioglossoides
- Cordyceps sobolifera
What Are the Bioactive Compounds in Cordyceps?
Cordyceps contains bioactive compounds such as cordycepin, polysaccharides, and adenosine, which contribute to its nootropic effects.
- Cordycepin: A nucleoside analog, has been shown to increase the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) in the brain, providing energy for neural processes.
- Polysaccharides: Demonstrate neuroprotective properties, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain.
- Adenosine: As a neuromodulator, it plays a role in regulating sleep-wake cycles and promoting deep sleep, which is crucial for memory consolidation.
Additionally, Cordyceps has been found to increase the expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein that supports the growth and survival of neurons.
What Are the Cognitive Benefits of Cordyceps?
Cordyceps offer several cognitive benefits, including:
- Treating mental fatigue
- Boosting learning and memory
- Supporting neuroprotection
Note: Further research is needed to fully understand the pharmacokinetics and long-term effects of Cordyceps on cognitive function.
How Do Cordyceps Treat Fatigue?
Cordyceps treats fatigue by increasing ATP production in the body.
ATP is the primary energy currency of cells, and Cordyceps has been shown to boost ATP levels by up to 55%. This increased energy production helps combat physical and mental fatigue.(1)
How Do Cordyceps Enhance Athletic Performance?
Cordyceps enhances athletic performance by improving oxygen utilization and reducing lactic acid buildup.
A study by Dr. Hirsch found that Cordyceps supplementation increased VO2 max (maximum oxygen uptake) by 7% and decreased lactic acid accumulation by 12% in athletes.(2)
How Do Cordyceps Enhance Learning and Memory?
Cordyceps enhance learning and memory by increasing BDNF levels in the brain.
BDNF is a protein that supports the growth, differentiation, and survival of neurons. Higher BDNF levels are associated with improved cognitive function, particularly in learning and memory tasks.
According to a study by Dr. Lee in 2016, Cordyceps supplementation improved learning and memory in mice by increasing brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels.(3)
How Do Cordyceps Support Neuroprotection?
Cordyceps support neuroprotection through their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Inflammation and oxidative stress are major contributors to neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
Cordyceps contain compounds like cordycepin and polysaccharides that reduce inflammation and scavenge harmful free radicals in the brain.(4)
What are the Potential Side Effects of Cordyceps?
Cordyceps are ordinarily well-tolerated, but potential side effects may include:
- Digestive issues like nausea, diarrhea, and stomach discomfort
- Allergic reactions in some individuals
- Interactions with certain medications, such as blood thinners and immunosuppressants
- Mild insomnia or sleep disturbances, particularly when taken later in the day
- Cordyceps produces dry mouth and increased thirst in approximately 15-20% of users, making it one of the more common side effects that can be managed with increased water intake throughout the day
- Headaches or dizziness, especially when starting supplementation
What are the Common Side Effects of Cordyceps?
Cordyceps causes mild and temporary side effects in approximately 10-15% of users, with symptoms typically resolving within two weeks as the body adjusts to the supplement, while the prevalence and severity of these reactions vary significantly among individuals based on dosage and personal sensitivity.
Digestive System Effects:
- Cordyceps triggers mild to moderate nausea in approximately 5-10% of users, which often subsides with continued use
- Cordyceps causes diarrhea or loose stools in some individuals, typically resolving within 1-2 days after the body adapts
- Cordyceps produces abdominal discomfort or bloating, particularly when taken on an empty stomach rather than with food
- Cordyceps reduces appetite in some users, which may be temporary during initial supplementation
Nervous System Effects:
- Cordyceps induces dizziness or lightheadedness in some users, especially when starting supplementation or taking higher doses
- Cordyceps triggers headaches in approximately 3-7% of users, which are typically mild and transient during the adaptation period
- Cordyceps disrupts sleep patterns in sensitive individuals, particularly when taken later in the day due to its energizing properties
- Cordyceps increases anxiety or restlessness in sensitive individuals, which may be mitigated by reducing dosage
Regarding sleep quality, Cordyceps disrupts normal sleep patterns in approximately 8-12% of users when taken in the afternoon or evening, causing difficulty falling asleep or maintaining deep sleep due to its energizing and stimulating properties, which is why morning administration is typically recommended.
Cardiovascular Effects:
- Cordyceps causes mild increases in heart rate in a small percentage of users (less than 3%), which is considered rare compared to other adaptogenic supplements
- Cordyceps affects blood pressure in some individuals, with both increases and decreases reported depending on the person’s baseline cardiovascular health
- Cordyceps triggers palpitations in sensitive individuals, particularly those with pre-existing heart conditions or when combined with stimulants
Other Potential Side Effects:
Allergic and Other Reactions:
- Cordyceps provokes skin rashes, hives, or itching in approximately 2-5% of users with fungal allergies, which may require discontinuation of use
- Cordyceps causes dry mouth and increased thirst in some users, which can be managed with proper hydration throughout the day
- Cordyceps triggers mild fever or flu-like symptoms in rare cases (less than 1% of users), which may indicate a hypersensitivity reaction requiring medical attention
Starting with a lower dose and gradually increasing can help minimize these effects. Most side effects subside within 1-2 weeks of consistent use as the body adapts to the supplement. If side effects persist or worsen, discontinue use and consult with a healthcare provider.
What are the Potential Interactions with Medications and Cordyceps?
Cordyceps interacts with several medications, including:
- Blood thinners like warfarin and heparin, potentially amplifying their anticoagulant effects and increasing bleeding risk
- Immunosuppressants used after organ transplants, possibly reducing their effectiveness due to Cordyceps’ immune-stimulating properties
- Diabetes medications that lower blood sugar, potentially causing hypoglycemia when combined with Cordyceps’ glucose-regulating effects
These interactions can increase the risk of bleeding, alter immune function, or cause hypoglycemia.
Always inform your doctor about any supplements you are taking to avoid potential drug interactions.
Who Should Avoid Using Cordyceps?
Certain individuals should avoid using Cordyceps completely or consult with a healthcare provider before starting supplementation:
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid Cordyceps entirely due to limited safety data and potential unknown effects on fetal development or nursing infants
- People with autoimmune disorders like lupus or multiple sclerosis should exercise caution with Cordyceps, which may exacerbate symptoms by stimulating immune system activity
- Individuals with bleeding disorders should avoid Cordyceps, which may worsen bleeding tendencies through its natural anticoagulant properties
- Those scheduled for surgery should discontinue Cordyceps at least two weeks before procedures to prevent increased bleeding risk during and after operations
What Are the Best Ways to Use Cordyceps for Cognitive Enhancement?
The best ways to use Cordyceps for cognitive enhancement include:
- Taking standardized Cordyceps extracts in capsule or tablet form
- Consuming Cordyceps mushroom powder in smoothies, coffee, or tea
- Using Cordyceps tinctures or liquid extracts
- Incorporating Cordyceps into recipes like soups or stir-fries
Consistency is key when using Cordyceps for cognitive benefits.
It’s recommended to take Cordyceps daily for at least 4-6 weeks to notice improvements in energy, focus, and memory.
What is the Recommended Dose of Cordyceps?
The recommended dose of Cordyceps varies depending on the form and concentration of the supplement.
The following doses are considered safe and effective:
| Product | Dosage | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Cordyceps extract capsules | 1000-3000 mg per day | Divided into two or three doses |
| Cordyceps mushroom powder | 1-3 grams per day | Mixed into beverages or food |
| Cordyceps tinctures or liquid extracts | 30-60 drops | Two to three times per day |
It’s best to start with a lower dose and gradually increase it as tolerated.
Follow the instructions on the product label and consult with a healthcare provider if you have any concerns.
How Do You Find the Best Cordyceps Products?
To find the best Cordyceps products, look for the following:
- Standardized extracts with at least 20% cordycepic acid content
- Organic or wild-crafted Cordyceps sourced from reputable suppliers
- Third-party tested for purity and potency
- Free from additives, fillers, and contaminants
- Manufactured by a trusted brand with good reviews and transparency
Remember to do your research and choose a nootropic that aligns with your specific needs and preferences.
- Tuli, Hardeep S et al. “Pharmacological and therapeutic potential of Cordyceps with special reference to Cordycepin.” 3 Biotech vol. 4,1 (2014): 1-12. doi:10.1007/s13205-013-0121-9↩
- Hirsch, Katie R et al. “Cordyceps militaris Improves Tolerance to High-Intensity Exercise After Acute and Chronic Supplementation.” Journal of dietary supplements vol. 14,1 (2017): 42-53. doi:10.1080/19390211.2016.1203386↩
- Lee, Sang-Hak et al. “Aqueous extract of Cordyceps alleviates cerebral ischemia-induced short-term memory impairment in gerbils.” Journal of exercise rehabilitation vol. 12,2 69-78. 26 Apr. 2016, doi:10.12965/jer.1632586.293↩
- Sharma, Himadri et al. “Unique Bioactives from Zombie Fungus (Cordyceps) as Promising Multitargeted Neuroprotective Agents.” Nutrients vol. 16,1 102. 27 Dec. 2023, doi:10.3390/nu16010102↩