Which cordyceps supplement is best? Sinensis, militaris, cs-2

Initially used to treat fatigue, respiratory disorders and kidney disease, Corcydeps nowadays are often consumed by athletes and fitness enthusiasts to improve their performance and recovery.

Like almost all supplements, Cordyceps aren’t without their controversies. While the mushroom is generally considered safe for most people (when taken as directed), some people can experience adverse effects like stomach upsets, skin rash or allergic reactions. Some experts have also expressed concern about the potential for Cordyceps to interact with certain medications, like those that affect the immune system.

We spoke to Nutritionist and Psychologist Dr Naomi Newman-Beinart PhD, who shared her thoughts on the supplement: “Known as the ‘energy mushroom’, Cordyceps is recognised for its energy boosting qualities as it has been found to increase the use of oxygen in your body, which not only boosts performance during physical exercise but helps you recover better afterwards, reducing recovery time and speeding up the removal of lactic acid.

“Cordyceps has had thousands of scientific articles written about its positive effects on many bodily systems, including the kidneys, liver, genito-urinary and immune systems, as well as for energy production. There are numerous cordyceps products out there but its key to pick a high-quality brand.”

“Luckily, mushrooms are safe for just about everyone. The only absolute contraindications is a mushroom allergy, so if you can’t do culinary mushrooms, then unfortunately, the same applies to medicinal mushrooms. There are a few cautions to consider and if you are taking any potent prescribed medications, it’s best to check with your health practitioner first.”

“Medicinal mushrooms, though strictly speaking a food, do have potent effects and caution is advised if you are taking prescribed medication for a particular symptom and then want to take a mushroom that has similar effects. The key cautions are for medications for lowering blood sugar or for blood thinning while using Reishi extract (which can have these effects).”

“When you are taking mushrooms to help with an issue, taking a regular dose each day for a couple of months at least is recommended. If stress, anxiety or sleep issues are a chronic issue for you, the best results are achieved with consistent use over a period of time.“

More research is needed to confirm the potential health benefits of Cordyceps, and it’s always best to consult with a healthcare provider before using it for medicinal purposes.