“There's a reason cordyceps took over the world. They're better at it than we are.”
This is a quote from the creator of the HBO hit, The Last of Us, which portrays cordyceps as a mushroom that turns us into zombies. While this has given some notoriety to cordyceps, it is pure science fiction. In truth, Cordyceps sinensis (also known as caterpillar fungus) is a remarkable natural mushroom known to boost energy, enhance stamina, and support overall vitality.
How does it do this?
Cordyceps produces an aptly named molecule called cordycepin. Research shows this molecule has anti-cancer (https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11274779/), anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant (https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11047340/; https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8510467/) benefits. Interestingly, cordycepin is structurally like a molecule essential for all life called adenosine, which is a key part of DNA as well as ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the molecule that provides energy to every cell in your body. They are remarkably similar (see above). ATP provides power to your muscles. They act like little batteries in every muscle cell. It is feasible that cordycepin reacts with adenosine receptors and frees up ATP in your muscles so you are able to go harder and farther (https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC1847515/?utm_source=chatgpt.com).
At Brain Wave, our mushroom gummies include a carefully balanced blend of functional mushrooms including cordyceps, and we also offer a cordyceps tincture for added energy and endurance boost.
As a scientist, I stand by the growing body of research behind these remarkable fungi and look forward to sharing more insights on how mushrooms can help you thrive.
Stay tuned for more!
Dr. Andy