Cordyceps: Uses, Benefits, and Side Effects

If you’ve ever found yourself intrigued by natural supplements that claim to boost energy, support immunity, or even act as a “natural Viagra,” you may have come across Cordyceps. With a reputation that straddles ancient herbal medicine and modern wellness trends, Cordyceps mushrooms have become increasingly popular. But what exactly are they? What are the benefits of Cordyceps, and are there any Cordyceps side effects you should know about?

Whether you're exploring ways to improve your stamina, support your immune system, or simply curious about the so-called zombie mushrooms, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Cordyceps, including its uses, benefits, and side effects.

This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with your GP or a qualified healthcare professional before starting any new herbal remedies, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication, or managing a health condition.

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Cordyceps are a type of fungi that grow on insect larvae in the wild. Yes, really; certain species infect insects and slowly take over their bodies, which is where the nickname zombie mushrooms or Cordyceps zombies comes from. While that sounds like something from a horror film, Cordyceps have long been prized in Traditional Chinese Medicine for their health-enhancing properties.

The two most well-known types are Cordyceps sinensis and Cordyceps militaris. Wild Cordyceps sinensis is incredibly rare and expensive, so most supplements use lab-grown Cordyceps militaris, which contains similar beneficial compounds and is much more sustainable.

The definition of Cordyceps, then, is a parasitic fungus used as a supplement thought to offer a range of health benefits, from increased energy to improved respiratory health.

Cordyceps are best known for their wide-ranging health benefits, from boosting energy to supporting hormone balance and brain health. Let’s explore how these fascinating fungi can support your wellbeing.

Cordyceps are widely recognised for their natural energy-boosting properties. They may help increase the body’s production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the molecule responsible for delivering energy to your muscles. This makes Cordyceps mushrooms a popular supplement among athletes and anyone dealing with fatigue or low energy levels.

Cordyceps are often compared to creatine. Although they work differently, both are often used to enhance physical performance and improve endurance, especially during high-intensity exercise or periods of exertion.

Rich in antioxidants and thought to act as an immune modulator, Cordyceps may help the body maintain a balanced and effective immune response. This could mean fewer colds and infections, and better overall resilience, especially during times of stress or seasonal change.

Many people include Cordyceps in their wellness routines for this very reason, and their ability to support immune function is one of their most widely acknowledged benefits.

Cordyceps are often associated with improved hormonal balance and sexual wellbeing. In men, they may help increase stamina, boost testosterone levels, and support fertility. This has led some to describe Cordyceps as a kind of natural libido enhancer.

For women, Cordyceps may help support hormone regulation, particularly during menopause, and may also enhance libido and reproductive health. These Cordyceps benefits for female and male health alike make the mushroom a popular choice for those looking to naturally support their hormonal wellbeing.

Another traditional benefit of Cordyceps is their impact on lung function. They’re believed to enhance how the body uses oxygen, making breathing more efficient and helping with respiratory conditions such as asthma or chronic bronchitis. Cordyceps sinensis, in particular, has been used in traditional practices to support lung health and improve endurance at high altitudes.

This enhanced oxygen use may also be linked to their popularity among endurance athletes and those living or training in challenging environments.

Cordyceps are believed to support cognitive function by improving oxygen circulation to the brain and reducing inflammation. These effects may lead to greater mental clarity, sharper focus, and a more stable mood.

Many users describe feeling a gentle boost in mental energy and emotional wellbeing after taking Cordyceps regularly. Rather than acting as a stimulant, Cordyceps may offer a more balanced form of support, helping you stay calm, focused, and energised throughout the day.

Cordyceps is available in a variety of forms, giving you the flexibility to choose one that suits your health goals and lifestyle. Each form delivers its own unique set of benefits and can be integrated easily into your daily routine.

You can find Cordyceps in capsules, powders, tinctures, teas, dried mushrooms, extracts, pills, and even blended into drinks or coffees. Some forms are great for boosting energy and athletic performance, while others are better suited for cognitive support, immunity, and general wellbeing.

The right dosage of Cordyceps depends on the form you’re using and the reason you’re taking it. Here are typical guidelines:

Cordyceps is typically taken in the morning or early afternoon. Its energising effects make it an ideal addition to your daytime routine. Taking it too late in the day might interfere with sleep, especially if you're sensitive to stimulation.

For those using Cordyceps to support workouts, it can be taken 30–60 minutes before physical activity to help improve stamina and endurance. If you're using it for general wellbeing or immune support, a consistent daily dose in the morning works well.

Common side effects of Cordyceps are typically mild and tend to occur when the supplement is taken in high doses or over long periods. Most people tolerate Cordyceps well, especially when following recommended dosages. However, some people may experience:

Cordyceps contains bioactive compounds that interact with the body’s energy systems and immune response. While beneficial, these compounds can occasionally cause unwanted effects, particularly when consumed in excess or in highly concentrated forms like tinctures or extracts. It’s always best to start with a low dose and observe how your body reacts.

Pregnant and breastfeeding women are generally advised to avoid Cordyceps due to the lack of safety data and its potential influence on hormone levels. People with autoimmune diseases, such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis, should also exercise caution, as Cordyceps may stimulate the immune system and potentially worsen symptoms.

People with bleeding disorders or those taking blood-thinning medications should consult a healthcare provider before using Cordyceps, as it may slightly increase the risk of bleeding. Similarly, anyone preparing for surgery should avoid Cordyceps in the days leading up to the procedure.

Those with known allergies to moulds or fungi should be particularly careful, as Cordyceps is a type of fungus and could cause an allergic response.

Cordyceps is considered safe for most healthy adults when used appropriately and for short to medium durations. However, the long-term effects of daily Cordyceps supplementation are not yet fully understood due to limited clinical studies.

To minimise the risk of side effects and help maintain the supplement’s effectiveness, some people choose to take Cordyceps in cycles—for example, using it for a few weeks followed by a short break. This approach allows the body to reset and may reduce the likelihood of building a tolerance or experiencing adverse effects.

As with any herbal supplement, it's important to listen to your body and consult a healthcare professional if you have any concerns or pre-existing conditions.

Yes, and in fact, Cordyceps coffee is a trendy option. The combination is often used to support energy and focus without the jittery crash sometimes caused by caffeine alone. However, if you're sensitive to stimulants, it’s best to monitor how your body responds.

Although Cordyceps is usually associated with increased energy and stamina, some people report a more balanced, calm feeling after regular use. If you’re aiming to support better sleep, take Cordyceps earlier in the day to avoid possible interference with your sleep cycle.

Cordyceps and lion’s mane are commonly taken together. Cordyceps supports energy, stamina, and physical performance, while lion’s mane is more focused on brain function, memory, and nerve health. Used together, they offer complementary benefits for mind and body.

It depends on your personal wellness goals. Cordyceps is generally preferred for physical energy and athletic support, while lion’s mane is better suited for cognitive enhancement and long-term brain support.

Some studies and traditional use suggest that Cordyceps may help promote healthy testosterone levels, especially in men. While more research is needed, many people use it to support male reproductive health and vitality.

There’s limited evidence to suggest that Cordyceps significantly affects oestrogen levels. However, some herbalists believe it may help with hormonal balance in women, particularly during menopause or times of hormonal fluctuation.

Cordyceps is not considered a DHT blocker in the same way as herbs like saw palmetto. However, its overall effect on hormone regulation may support general reproductive health. More specific research is needed to determine its influence on DHT.

Cordyceps has been traditionally used to support sexual health and libido, particularly in men. Some believe it improves blood flow and hormonal function, which may help with erectile performance. However, it should not be seen as a guaranteed remedy.

Some people notice benefits within a few days, particularly in energy and stamina. For others, it may take two to four weeks of consistent use to experience more noticeable effects, especially when taken for immune or hormonal support.

Taking occasional breaks from Cordyceps can help your body reset and avoid building a tolerance. A common approach is to use it for several weeks, then take a short break before starting again.

Traditional Chinese Medicine has used Cordyceps to support kidney function for centuries. While modern studies are still limited, it is thought to help protect the kidneys and support overall vitality. Anyone with kidney issues should speak to a healthcare provider before use.

There is no strong evidence that Cordyceps negatively affects thyroid function, but because it influences hormones and metabolism, those with thyroid conditions should consult their doctor before use.

Most people tolerate Cordyceps well, but downsides can include mild digestive upset, potential interactions with medications, or overstimulation in sensitive people. High doses or long-term use without breaks should be approached with caution.

If you’ve found yourself fascinated by the potential of Cordyceps and other natural remedies, why not deepen your understanding? Whether you're a beginner or looking to expand your knowledge, Centre of Excellence offers a comprehensive Master Herbalist Diploma Course, designed for people of all levels. 

The course covers everything from herb identification and preparation to building herbal blends for specific emotional and physical needs. Follow the link to access the course for just £29!