Adaptogen
Cordyceps
Also known as: Cordyceps militaris, Cordyceps sinensis, Cordyceps (Cordyceps militaris/sinensis), Caterpillar fungus
Energy and performance mushroom that also supports immune function, respiratory health, and adaptogenic resilience.
Last reviewed June 2026 · Evidence graded from peer-reviewed research, not editorial opinion. Educational only — not medical advice.
Every Cordyceps product we have scored
| # | Product | Score | Per serving |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Double Wood Cordyceps Mushroom Extract Supplement | 87 A | $0.19 |
| 2 | NOW Foods Cordyceps | 86 A- | $0.39 |
| 3 | Terra Origin Healthy Mushroom Capsules | 83 A- | $1.00 |
| 4 | Vital Nutrients Adrenal Support* | 76 B+ | $0.97 |
| 5 | Doctor's Best Ultra Cordyceps, 750 mg, 60 Veggie Caps | 75 B+ | $0.25 |
| 6 | Bluebonnet Nutrition JUSTBREATHE | 75 B+ | $1.03 |
| 7 | Zhou Nutrition Hydro-Fuel | 70 B | $0.63 |
| 8 | Micro Ingredients Organic Mega 10 mushroom Powder | 66 B- | $0.14 |
| 9 | Gaia Herbs Cordyceps Mushroom | 63 B- | $0.74 |
Scored on dose accuracy, form, label transparency and third-party testing. Per-serving cost is list price divided by servings per container. No brand pays to be listed or ranked.
Common questions
How much Cordyceps should I take?
The typical range is 1000-3000mg daily or 300-500mg extract. Safe long-term
When should I take Cordyceps?
Morning or pre-workout. Either.
Which form of Cordyceps is best?
Capsule — Extract preferred. Other forms in the catalog: Powder, Cordyceps militaris extract, CS-4 (sinensis), Dual extract.
Is Cordyceps safe?
Commonly reported: GI upset rare, Insomnia if late. Serious warnings: May affect blood sugar. Generally safe
Which Cordyceps supplement scores highest?
Double Wood Cordyceps Mushroom Extract Supplement, at 87/100. Scored on dose accuracy, form, label transparency and third-party testing — no brand pays to be listed or ranked.
Primary uses
- Endurance
- Oxygen utilization
- Energy
- Libido
- Athletic performance
- Respiratory health
- Immune support
How it works
- Increases ATP production
- Improves oxygen utilization
- Contains cordycepin
Dosage
- Typical range
- 1000-3000mg daily or 300-500mg extract
- Timing
- Morning or pre-workout
- With food
- Either
- Duration
- Safe long-term
- Special populations
- Athletes, fatigue
Forms
- Capsule
- Powder
- Cordyceps militaris extract
- CS-4 (sinensis)
- Dual extract
Safety
Common side effects
- GI upset rare
- Insomnia if late
Contraindications
- Autoimmune (caution)
Products containing Cordyceps
Top-scoring supplements in our catalog that list Cordyceps on the label. Each product is graded on Formulate's ingredient-level rubric — dose accuracy, form, transparency, and third-party testing.
Evidence notes
Good evidence for exercise performance
Grade B: Some human trials support key claims; further confirmation needed.
Cordyceps compared head-to-head
Related in Adaptogen
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Medical disclaimer. This page is educational and does not replace advice from a qualified healthcare provider. Individual needs and risks vary — consult a professional before starting, stopping, or combining supplements, especially if you are pregnant or nursing, taking medication, or managing a health condition.