Cordyceps sinensis and cordyceps militaris are two of the most popular types of cordyceps. But what is the difference between them? In this blog post, we will explore the differences between these two types of cordyceps mushrooms and discuss which one is better for you.
What Is Cordyceps?
Cordyceps is a genus of parasitic fungi that grow on insects and other arthropods. The most well-known species, Cordyceps Sinensis, is found in the Himalayan region of Nepal, India, and Tibet. It has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries and is prized for its purported health benefits.
Types Of Cordyceps:
Here are cordyceps species:
Genus cordyceps
The genus cordyceps contains more than 400 named species, and many more that have yet to be formally described.
Cordyceps Sinensis
Cordyceps sinensis is one of the most famous cordyceps. It’s often called “winter worm, summer grass” in China, where it has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for centuries. Cordyceps Sinensis species parasitize the larvae of ghost moths and produce long, thin fruits that emerge from the soil in spring.
Cordyceps Militaris
Cordyceps militaris is another popular cordyceps. Unlike C. Sinensis, it parasitizes the pupae of various insects, rather than the larvae. The fruiting bodies of C. Militaris are slightly shorter and thicker than those of C. Sinensis, and they typically emerge from the ground in summer or autumn.
Cordyceps Ophioglossoides
Cordyceps Ophioglossoides is a North American cordyceps that parasitizes goldenrod soldier beetles. This species was first discovered in the 18th century by Dutch naturalist JanJacobsen, who found it growing on goldenrod leaves in New York state.
Cordyceps Brunneopilis
Cordyceps Brunneopilis is a tropical cordyceps that parasitizes ants in the genus Camponotus. The fruits of this species are dark brown or black, hence its name “Brunneopilis” which means “dark-haired”. This cordyceps is found in Central and South America, as well as Southeast Asia and Australasia.
Cordycepts Sychnopycis
One particularly interesting example of a Cordyceps fungus is Cordyceps Sychnopycis, which infects jumping spiders. After a spider becomes infected, the fungus begins to grow inside its brain.
Eventually, the fungus takes over the spider’s body, causing it to climb to a high point, attach itself to a surface, and die. The fungus then continues to grow out of the spider’s head, releasing spores that will go on to infect other spiders.
What Is Cordyceps Sinensis
Cordyceps Sinensis is a type of medicinal mushroom that has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. These cordyceps mushrooms are thought to have a range of health benefits, including the ability to boost energy levels, improve respiratory function, and enhance immune system function.
Wild Cordyceps Sinensis is typically taken in the form of a powder or capsule. Some people also cook with cordyceps Sinensis, adding it to soups or stir-fries. While there is not yet scientific evidence to support all of the purported benefits of cordyceps Sinensis, preliminary research suggests that these medicinal mushrooms may indeed offer some health benefits.
For example;
- One study found that cordyceps Sinensis can improve oxygen utilization in athletes, which suggests that it could improve exercise performance.
- Additionally, another study found that cordyceps Sinensis can help to reduce inflammation and boost immune system function. more research is needed to confirm the potential health benefits of cordyceps Sinensis.
What Is Cordyceps Militaris
Cordyceps Militaris is a fungus that parasitizes insects, specifically caterpillars of the genus Thitarodes. The fungus grows within the host caterpillar, eventually killing it and emerging from the host’s body.
Cordyceps Militaris has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries and is prized for its purported medicinal properties. The fungus is difficult to cultivate, and as a result, it is relatively rare and expensive.
Cordyceps Militaris is used in a variety of traditional Chinese remedies and is said to boost energy levels, improve circulation, and strengthen the immune system. While there is some scientific evidence to support these claims, more research is needed. Nonetheless, Cordyceps Militaris remains a popular ingredient in traditional Chinese medicine and is prized for its purported health benefits.
Difference Between Cordyceps Sinensis And Cordyceps Militaris
Cordyceps are a genus of fungi that includes approximately 400 different species. Two of the most well-known species are Cordyceps Sinensis and Cordyceps Militaris. Both of these fungi have long been used in traditional Chinese medicine for their medicinal properties.
If you’re interested in taking cordyceps supplements, you may have noticed that there are two main types of cordyceps on the market:
- Cordyceps Sinensis
- Cordyceps Militaris
Both cordyceps Sinensis and cordyceps Militaris are known for their health-promoting properties, but there are some key differences between them.
- Cordyceps Sinensis is the more widely known of the two mushrooms. It’s native to the Tibetan Plateau and has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries.
- One of the biggest benefits of Cordyceps Sinensis is that it’s rich in antioxidants, which can help to protect cells from damage and reduce inflammation. This mushroom is also thought to boost energy levels, improve athletic performance, and reduce stress levels.
- Cordyceps Militaris, on the other hand, is native to China and India. Like Cordyceps Sinensis, it too has a long history of use in traditional medicine.
- However, Cordyceps Militaris is especially good for people who suffer from respiratory problems like asthma or bronchitis. That’s because this mushroom contains a substance called lentinan, which is believed to help improve lung function.
- In addition, Cordyceps Militaris is also rich in compounds that can boost immune system function.
Cordyceps Sinensis Is More Expensive Than Cordyceps Militaris
If you’re looking for a medicinal mushroom with a bit of a price tag, you’ll want to check out cordyceps Sinensis. Also known as Ophiocordyceps Sinensis or Caterpillar fungus, this fungus is prized for its health benefits.
Unlike its close relative cordyceps Militaris, cordyceps Sinensis only grows in the wild and is difficult to cultivate. As a result, it is much rarer and more expensive. Cordyceps Sinensis has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries and is thought to boost energy levels, improve immunity, and reduce inflammation.
Today, cordyceps mushroom is growing in popularity as a dietary supplement. If you’re interested in trying cordyceps Sinensis, be prepared to pay a bit more than you would for other mushrooms. But many people believe that the health benefits are worth the price.
Both Types Of Cordyceps Have Medicinal Properties:
Cordyceps Sinensis is thought to help improve energy levels, while Cordyceps Militaris is believed to boost stamina and immunity.
A number of scientific studies have been conducted on the potential health benefits of cordyceps. And while more research is needed, there is some evidence to suggest that these fungi may indeed be effective in treating a variety of health conditions.
If you’re interested in trying cordyceps for yourself, be sure to speak with your healthcare provider first to ensure it’s the right treatment for you.
The Bottom Line:
If you’re looking for a general all-purpose cordyceps supplement, Cordyceps Sinensis is a good choice. However, if you’re specifically looking for something to support respiratory health, Cordyceps Militaris may be a better option.
