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.
Studied, labeled, or reported-use context: 1-3 g/day dual-extract fruiting body — OTC; not individualized guidance.
What the evidence says
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
Studied, labeled, or reported dose & route
1-3 g/day dual-extract fruiting body
This records doses and routes described in studies, approved labeling, clinical practice, or documented use. It is not individualized guidance and does not establish safety; context changes with indication, formulation, health history, monitoring, and other medicines.
Citations
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Common questions
- What does the evidence show about Cordyceps (militaris/sinensis)'s effects?
- 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.
- What safety findings are reported for Cordyceps (militaris/sinensis)?
- Cordyceps (militaris/sinensis) has a low risk profile in the database. Low (well-tolerated) Legal status: OTC.
- What doses or routes are reported for Cordyceps (militaris/sinensis)?
- 1-3 g/day dual-extract fruiting body This is context from studies, approved labeling, clinical practice, or documented use; it is not individualized guidance and does not establish safety.
- 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.