Exercise performance and endurance
Multiple studies show cordyceps supplementation improves VO2 max, lactate threshold, and time to exhaustion in older adults and recreational athletes.
Energy and ATP production
Cordycepin and adenosine from cordyceps support mitochondrial function and ATP synthesis. Animal studies show increased ATP production in liver and muscle tissue with supplementation.
Immune modulation
Beta-glucans from cordyceps activate macrophages and NK cells, enhancing innate immunity. Used in integrative oncology to support immune function during chemotherapy.
Anti-aging and antioxidant
Cordyceps polysaccharides upregulate SOD and GPx antioxidant enzymes, reducing oxidative stress biomarkers. Lifespan extension observed in multiple invertebrate models.
Adenosine receptor agonism
Cordycepin (3'-deoxyadenosine) acts as an adenosine analog, binding adenosine receptors that regulate cellular energy status, mitochondrial function, and blood vessel dilation during exercise.
AMPK pathway activation
Cordyceps polysaccharides activate AMPK, stimulating mitochondrial biogenesis, fatty acid oxidation, and glucose uptake in muscle cells.
Erythropoiesis support
Cordyceps may increase red blood cell production and 2,3-DPG levels in erythrocytes, improving oxygen unloading to tissues — contributing to enhanced aerobic capacity.
RCT of Cordyceps sinensis extract (3 g/day) vs. placebo in 30 healthy older adults (55–75 years) for 12 weeks.
30 older adults. 12-week supplementation.
Significant increase in VO2 max and ventilatory threshold vs. placebo. Improved metabolic threshold allows higher exercise intensity before fatigue onset.
RCT of Cordyceps militaris extract (Peak O2®) vs. placebo in 28 healthy adults for 3 weeks.
28 healthy adults. 3-week intervention.
Trend toward improved time to exhaustion and peak power output. Peak O2 group showed significantly better tolerance to high-intensity exercise vs. placebo at week 3.