Cordyceps militaris, a celebrated medicinal fungus in traditional Chinese medicine, has captured scientific attention for its potential to boost immunity and reduce inflammation. A recent clinical trial, published in Scientific Reports (2024), has provided compelling evidence supporting these claims.

The study highlights the effects of a functional beverage derived from Cordyceps militaris (FCM) and its role in enhancing immune responses in healthy adults.

Why Cordyceps Militaris?

Known for its rich composition, Cordyceps militaris contains polysaccharides (like galactomannan), essential for immune modulation, and nucleotides such as cordycepin and adenosine, which are linked to anti-inflammatory and immunostimulatory properties.

Additionally, it is packed with vitamins and minerals, including B12, selenium, and zinc, which support overall health. These components have been shown to exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory effects in various preclinical studies. The functional beverage (FCM) explored in this study offers a convenient way to harness these benefits.

Study Design

Conducted in Phayao Province, Thailand, the randomized, placebo-controlled trial included 40 healthy adults (20 men and 20 women). Participants received either 75 mL of FCM, containing 2.85 mg of cordycepin, or a placebo daily for eight weeks. Immune markers, including natural killer (NK) cell activity and inflammatory cytokines, were assessed at baseline, 4 weeks, and 8 weeks.

Key Findings

1. Enhanced Natural Killer (NK) Cell Activity
   Men experienced a significant increase in NK activity after 4 weeks (34.1% higher than baseline), while women saw significant improvements after 8 weeks, outperforming the placebo group. NK cells play a critical role in immune defense by targeting and destroying infected or cancerous cells.

2. Reduced Inflammation
   Men showed a decrease in interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), a pro-inflammatory cytokine, after 4 weeks. Women exhibited lower levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6), another key inflammatory marker, after 8 weeks.

3. Safety and Tolerability
   No adverse effects were noted on metabolic or liver/kidney health markers. Participants maintained stable blood sugar and lipid levels, confirming the beverage's safety for long-term use.

Conclusion

The findings of this study underscore the immense potential of Cordyceps militaris beverages as a natural, safe, and effective immune booster. It can also boost energy, enhance endurance, and improve oxygen utilization, making it perfect for combating fatigue and supporting physical performance.

Additionally, it helps balance hormones, improve libido, and support reproductive health, making it a key ingredient for vitality and well-being. With added benefits like boosting immunity, reducing inflammation, and supporting heart health, Cordyceps is a natural powerhouse for both energy and overall wellness.

That’s why we include two types of Cordyceps in both our Energy and Libido gummies.