Cordyceps (militaris/sinensis)
Cognitive · Medicinal mushroom
Tier B+
Bottom line
Read Off Label grades Cordyceps (militaris/sinensis) as B+ (7.1/10) based on moderate evidence, med benefit magnitude, and a low-risk safety profile.
Primarily an ergogenic aid rather than cognitive enhancer.
Typical use: 1-3 g/day dual-extract fruiting body — OTC.
What this is
Primarily an ergogenic aid rather than cognitive enhancer. Chen 2010 showed improved exercise metabolic parameters in older adults. Cognitive effects likely secondary to improved fatigue tolerance and cerebral blood flow. C. militaris cultivation now dominant; wild C. sinensis rare/expensive.
Mechanism
Cordycepin (3'-deoxyadenosine) and adenosine analogs; enhance ATP production; modulate adenosine receptors; ergogenic and immune effects
Dose & route
1-3 g/day dual-extract fruiting body
Citations
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20804368/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27583558/
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4818998/
Links go to the source. If a link is dead or you want something re-checked, let me know.
Common questions
- Does Cordyceps (militaris/sinensis) work?
- Read Off Label rates the evidence for Cordyceps (militaris/sinensis) as Moderate and the benefit magnitude as med, producing an overall grade of B+ (7.1/10). Primarily an ergogenic aid rather than cognitive enhancer.
- Is Cordyceps (militaris/sinensis) safe?
- Cordyceps (militaris/sinensis) has a low risk profile in published human data. Legal status: OTC. This is not medical advice — see the disclaimer.
- What is the typical dose for Cordyceps (militaris/sinensis)?
- 1-3 g/day dual-extract fruiting body
- How does Cordyceps (militaris/sinensis) work?
- Cordycepin (3'-deoxyadenosine) and adenosine analogs; enhance ATP production; modulate adenosine receptors; ergogenic and immune effects
This is an independent synthesis of published research by a non-clinician. Scores are opinions supported by citations, not prescriptions. See the full disclaimer and methodology for how this score was produced and what it does and doesn't mean.