Overview
Cordyceps militaris powder is a medicinal mushroom traditionally used for its immunomodulatory, antioxidant, and metabolic health benefits. Modern research highlights its bioactive polysaccharides as key contributors to its antitumor, hypoglycemic, hypolipidemic, anti-inflammatory, and immunostimulatory effects [5]. Studies in animal models demonstrate that aqueous extracts of C. militaris significantly reduce tumor growth in a dose-dependent manner, with inhibition rates up to 94.7% at 150 mg/kg/day in xenografted nude mice [9]. It also exhibits antidiabetic and antinephritic activities by lowering fasting blood glucose, improving lipid profiles, and reducing kidney damage in diabetic rats when administered at doses of 0.5–2.0 g/kg/day [8]. Additionally, C. militaris enhances antioxidant capacity, with evidence showing increased glutathione peroxidase activity and reduced oxidative stress [10][7]. These effects are attributed to its rich content of polysaccharides, cordycepic acid, and bioavailable trace elements such as selenium and zinc.
Dosage Guide
Therapeutic Doses
For treatment of specific conditions
Upper Intake Limit
Maximum safe daily intake
mg— No established upper limit; generally well-tolerated in studies up to several grams per day
Special Forms
Alternative forms for specific needs
Higher polysaccharide and cordycepin content; preferred for immune and metabolic support
Cost-effective, consistent bioactive content; often enriched with trace minerals
Standardized for beta-glucans; used in immune and antitumor research
Clinical Notes
- Cordyceps is generally well-tolerated but may have hypoglycemic and hypotensive effects; monitor in individuals on diabetes or blood pressure medications.
- Potential anticoagulant effects reported in some studies; use caution with blood thinners.
- Ensure product authenticity and absence of contaminants; some products may be mislabeled or contain fillers.
- Most human data come from Cordyceps sinensis or blended products; direct evidence for C. militaris powder in humans is limited and largely extrapolated from animal and in vitro studies.
Research
Zn, Ge, Se-enriched Cordyceps sinensis mycelia enhance antioxidant activity and biosynthesis of bioactive compounds like polysaccharides and cordycepic acid.
Water extract of Cordyceps militaris at 150–300 mg/kg/day significantly inhibits tumor growth and extends survival in tumor-xenografted nude mice.
Cordyceps sinensis mycelial extract (200 mg/kg/day) improves hepatic energy metabolism and blood flow in anemic mice.
Cordyceps sinensis shows potential benefits in chronic kidney disease, though evidence quality is limited and further trials are needed.
Polysaccharides from Cordyceps militaris exhibit immunostimulatory, antioxidant, antitumor, and metabolic regulatory activities.
Protein-rich fraction of Cordyceps sinensis induces dose-dependent hypotension and vasorelaxation in rats.
Exogenous lanthanum nitrate increases active compound content and antioxidant activity in Cordyceps militaris, suggesting cultivation optimization potential.
Aqueous extract of Cordyceps militaris fruit body (0.5–2.0 g/kg/day) reduces hyperglycemia and nephropathy in diabetic rats.
Cordyceps militaris extends mean survival time and increases lifespan in tumor-bearing mice.
Trace element-enriched Cordyceps mycelia boost in vivo antioxidant enzyme activity, including glutathione peroxidase.
