Cordyceps
Adaptogen
Also known as: Cordyceps militaris, Cordyceps sinensis, Cordyceps (Cordyceps militaris/sinensis), Caterpillar fungus, Dong chong xia cao
B
Grade B💊 1000-3000mg daily or 300-500mg extract🎯 7 primary uses🔗 2 synergies⚠️ Review warnings
Levels upStress & Resilience+50 pts
Overview
Energy and performance mushroom that also supports immune function, respiratory health, and adaptogenic resilience.
Primary Uses
EnduranceOxygen utilizationEnergyLibidoAthletic performanceRespiratory healthImmune support
Frequently Asked About Cordyceps
How much Cordyceps should I take?
The typical effective range is 1,500-3,000 mg/day. Individual needs vary based on age, body weight, diet, and goals — start at the lower end and adjust based on response. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting a new supplement.
When is the best time to take Cordyceps?
Morning or pre-workout. Consistency matters more than perfect timing — pick a daily anchor (e.g. with breakfast or before bed) and stick with it.
Should I take Cordyceps with food?
Either.
Does Cordyceps interact with medications?
Yes — known interactions include Immunosuppressants and Diabetes meds. If you take any prescription medication, talk to your doctor or pharmacist before starting Cordyceps.
What does Cordyceps pair well with?
Cordyceps stacks well with Rhodiola and Beta-alanine — these combinations either improve absorption or work synergistically toward common goals.
Who should not take Cordyceps?
Cordyceps should be avoided or used with caution by people with Autoimmune (caution). Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare provider before use.
What are the side effects of Cordyceps?
Most people tolerate Cordyceps well. The most commonly reported side effects are GI upset rare and Insomnia if late. Side effects are usually dose-dependent — lowering the dose often resolves them.
Dosage
Typical range
1000-3000mg daily or 300-500mg extract
Timing
Morning or pre-workout
With food
Either
Dose Tiers
Moderate
1,000-1,500 mg/day
Optimal
1,500-3,000 mg/day
Upper Limit
No established UL
Duration
Safe long-term
Special Populations
Athletes, fatigue
Research & Studies
Search the literature now
We haven’t curated landmark studies for Cordycepsyet — one-click into the primary literature here. PubMed (RCTs) is usually the highest-signal starting point.
Mechanism of Action
- • Increases ATP production
- • Improves oxygen utilization
- • Contains cordycepin
Evidence Quality
Evidence Grade B
Good evidence for exercise performance
Safety & Contraindications
Serious Warnings
- • May affect blood sugar
Contraindications
- • Autoimmune (caution)
Common Side Effects
- • GI upset rare
- • Insomnia if late
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
Avoid
Liver & Kidney Notes
Generally safe
Interactions
💊 Medications
- • Immunosuppressants
- • Diabetes meds
🧪 Supplements
- • Other mushrooms
🍽️ Food & Alcohol
- • No interactions
Stacking & Synergies
Pairs Well With
Avoid Combining With
Nothing specific
Best Goal Synergies
Endurance performance
Buying Guide
What to Look For
- • Fruiting body
- • Lab-tested
Standardization Markers
Cordycepin contentBeta-glucans
Adulteration risk
HIGH - many fake
Practical Notes
- • Quality varies wildly
- • Fruiting body preferred
- • Militaris is sustainable alternative to wild sinensis
- • Morning or pre-workout timing
- • May take 1-2 weeks for energy effects
Tags
adaptogenmushroomenduranceATPenergyperformance
Related Guides
In-depth guides covering Cordyceps — protocols, comparisons, and use cases.
More in Adaptogen
Other ingredients in the Adaptogen category.
Eleuthero (Siberian Ginseng)
Classic adaptogen for physical and mental stress, supporting adrenal resilience.
Ginseng
A well-researched adaptogenic herb used for centuries in traditional medicine, shown to support energy, cognitive function, immune health, and stress resilience.
Holy Basil (Tulsi)
Ayurvedic herb specifically effective for cortisol reduction and stress adaptation.
Licorice
Root that inhibits cortisol breakdown, extending its effects—useful for low cortisol states.
Maca
Maca is a cruciferous root vegetable from Peru traditionally used for fertility and sexual function. Clinical evidence supports modest benefits for sexual desire and erectile function in some populations, though effects are generally moderate.
Maca (Women's Formula)
Peruvian adaptogen supporting women's hormonal balance, libido, and menopause symptoms.
Last reviewed: June 2026 by the Formulate Research Team. Sources cited above; methodology and scoring criteria published here.
Cite this page
Formulate Research Team. (2026, June). Cordyceps — Evidence-Based Supplement Guide. Formulate Supplement Encyclopedia. https://app.formulate-health.app/learning/supplements/cordyceps
Educational content based on published research and our scoring methodology. Not medical advice — consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing supplements, especially if you take medications, are pregnant, or have a medical condition.