Cordyceps is one of the most unusual mushrooms in the world, with a long history of use in Tibet and China. Today it's easy to find as a fine, golden-brown powder that stirs into coffee, smoothies and hot drinks. Here's what cordyceps is, how it tastes and how to use it.
What is cordyceps?
Cordyceps is a group of fungi. The most famous, known in Tibet as yartsa gunbu, grows wild on the high Tibetan plateau, where it sprouts from moth larvae buried in the soil. Wild cordyceps is rare, hand-collected and very expensive.
Most cordyceps powders today are made from cultivated cordyceps instead. The most common is Cordyceps militaris, a bright orange, club-shaped mushroom that is grown on a plant-based substrate such as rice or grain. Some powders are made from the mushroom itself (the fruiting body) and others from mycelium, the root-like network, so check the label to see what you're buying.
What does cordyceps taste like?
Mild, earthy and slightly savoury, with a gentle nutty note. It's much less bitter than reishi or chaga, which makes it one of the easier mushroom powders to use.
How to use cordyceps mushroom powder
Start with a small amount and follow the serving suggestion on your pack.
- In coffee: stir into a freshly brewed coffee or whisk into a latte.
- In smoothies: blend with banana, berries, oats and milk.
- Hot chocolate: whisk into warm milk with cacao and a little honey.
- Porridge: stir into porridge or overnight oats with cinnamon.
- Broth: add to a miso or vegetable broth with ginger and garlic.
Tips
- Mix with a splash of liquid first to avoid lumps.
- A little sediment is normal, as mushroom powders don't fully dissolve.
- Keep the pouch sealed in a cool, dry place away from sunlight.
Cordyceps vs other mushroom powders
Cordyceps is mild like lion's mane, while reishi and chaga are stronger and more bitter. Compare them all in our guide to mushroom powders.
Who should avoid cordyceps?
Cordyceps isn't suitable during pregnancy or breastfeeding, or for children. Speak to your GP or pharmacist before using it if you take any medication, especially blood thinners or diabetes medication, if you have an autoimmune condition or a bleeding disorder, or if you're due to have surgery. Don't use it if you've ever reacted to mushrooms, and don't exceed the serving suggestion on the pack.
Shop our Organic Cordyceps Mushroom Powder, or browse all our mushroom powders.
