If you make a purchase after clicking on links within this article, Lee Enterprises may earn affiliate commissions. The news and editorial departments had no role in the creation or display of this content.
Cordyceps mushrooms have boomed in popularity over the last few years, with people using it to help improve energy levels throughout the day, without having to worry about a caffeine crash. On top of that, people turn to it for enhanced stamina, immune health support, and help with focus. So it’s not really a surprise that they’ve been getting all this hype.
But, it’s not just any old cordyceps mushroom that you want. What you’re mostly looking for is the cordycepin content and polysaccharide content, as these are the compounds that are thought to give cordyceps supplements their potential benefits. These compounds actually make up a relatively small amount of the mushroom, and it depends on how they were grown, what part of the mushroom was used, and even how it was extracted. And unfortunately not all brands have enough of either of these two compounds.
People are also reading…
Among dozens of cordyceps supplements, here are the top picks for 2025, based on extract quality, dosage, mushroom sourcing (mycelium vs. fruiting body vs. standardization), price per serving, and delivery format.
Editors Quick Picks
Best Combined Powder – Elm & Rye
Best Stand Alone Cordyceps – Nootrum
Best Cordyceps Gummy - Fungus
Best Cordyceps Blend
Why It’s #1:
Elm & Rye’s Mushroom Powder is a comprehensive blend of functional mushrooms, including high-grade cordyceps militaris extract. The formula may offer enhanced physical and cognitive performance support and uses fruiting bodies — not mycelium — with no fillers or sweeteners. Third-party tested and sustainably sourced.
- Form: Powder
- Key Ingredients: Cordyceps militaris, Lion’s Mane, Reishi, Chaga, Shiitake, Turkey Tail
- Price: $59.99
Pros:
- Contains multiple 20:1 extracts, including cordyceps
- Sourced from fruiting bodies only
- No artificial flavors or additives
- Transparent third-party testing
Conclusion:
Elm & Rye’s Mushroom Powder is the gold standard for anyone seeking a clean, versatile cordyceps blend that may support endurance, cognition, and overall vitality.
2. Nootrum Cordyceps Mushrooms
Best Standalone Cordyceps Supplement
Why It’s #2:
Nootrum Cordyceps Mushrooms deliver pure, high-potency cordyceps sinensis extract, standardized to 40% polysaccharides and a full 10 mg dose of cordycepin per capsule. It’s fully organic, made in FDA-registered facilities, and includes free shipping across the U.S. And seeing as it comes in 60 capsule bottles, even if you want to double up and go for the highest end amount of cordyceps, then you’re still getting a full month's supply for $30, which is really good value for the product you get.Â
- Form: Capsules
- Key Ingredients: Cordyceps sinensis mycelium extract (40% polysaccharides)
- Price: $32.99
Pros:
- Pure cordyceps sinensis with no additives
- High dose
- Organic, vegan, and U.S.-made
- Free shipping included
Conclusion:
An excellent standalone option that may provide immune, energy, and performance support at a great price point.
3. Fungies Cordyceps Gummies
Best Cordyceps Gummy
Why It’s #3:
For those who dislike capsules, Fungies Cordyceps Gummies offer a tasty and convenient alternative. Made with cordyceps militaris extract, they may provide basic support for endurance and energy. And as one of the only cordyceps gummies to contain a decent amount of cordycepin, they get their spot at number 3. You’ll probably want to double up on the recommended serving.
- Form: Gummies
- Key Ingredients: Cordyceps militaris, B12, glucose syrup base
- Price: $15.96 – $19.95
Pros:
- Palatable and fun to take
- Vegan and allergen-free
Conclusion:
Ideal for beginners or supplement-averse users who want a light cordyceps boost with a pleasant flavor.
4. Real Mushrooms Cordyceps-M
Best Cordyceps Powder
Why It’s #4:
Real Mushrooms Cordyceps-M provides 100% fruiting body extract of cordyceps militaris in powder form. Hot-water extracted and third-party tested, it claims to be optimized for bioavailability.
- Form: Powder
- Key Ingredients: Cordyceps militaris fruiting body extract
- Price: $31.32 – $62.59
Pros:
- High content from fruiting bodies
- Organic and gluten-free
- Third-party verified purity
Conclusion:
A pure and potent powder, especially suited for smoothies or teas.
5. NOW Foods Cordyceps
Best Budget Cordyceps Supplement
Why It’s #5:
NOW Foods Cordyceps is a reliable low-cost option using standardized cordyceps sinensis mycelium. The price and accessibility make it a decent entry-level option. It’s a good option for if you want to make sure you do react well to cordyceps in general.Â
- Form: Capsules
- Key Ingredients: Cordyceps sinensis mycelium extract
- Price: $27.99
Pros:
- Low cost per serving
- Reputable brand with GMP facilities
- Vegan and allergen-freeÂ
Conclusion:
A good budget-friendly choice, especially for those starting out or looking for mild immune and energy support.
6. Host Defense Cordyceps Extract
Best Cordyceps Liquid/Tincture
Why It’s #6:
This tincture from Host Defense offers a unique delivery method and is easy to add to drinks. While based on mycelium, it’s organic and convenient.
- Form: Liquid
- Key Ingredients: Cordyceps mycelium extract in water/alcohol
- Price: $20.95 – $38.95
Pros:
- Liquid form
- Organic and easy to dose
- Ideal for travel or mixing
Conclusion:
A good liquid delivery option for cordyceps users who want flexibility and ease of use.
Final Thoughts on Cordyceps Supplements
Cordyceps continues to be one of the most dynamic functional mushrooms available in 2025, with applications in energy, stamina, immunity, and even libido. Your optimal supplement depends on your needs and preferred form:
- Elm & Rye leads the list with a full-spectrum, fruiting-body blend that is designed for mind and body performance.
- Nootrum Cordyceps is the cleanest standalone capsule designed for daily endurance and energy.
- Fungies Gummies and Real Mushrooms Powder provide accessible and high-quality alternatives in palatable formats.
For best results, look for:
- Fruiting body extracts
- Polysaccharide content of 30–40%
- Transparent third-party testing
- Extract ratios (e.g., 10:1 or 20:1) for potency
Cordyceps Mushroom Supplements FAQ
What are the benefits of Cordyceps mushrooms?
Cordyceps mushrooms are thought to boost energy production and physical endurance. These potential effects may be attributed to cordycepin, which may mimic ATP and affect inflammatory pathways.
What is cordycepin and why is it important?
It is the most studied active compound in Cordyceps militaris and is thought to be responsible for the potential benefits. Meaning that it may be helpful for energy, libido, neuroprotection, and endurance. Look for products that contain 10–30 mg of cordycepin per serving.
What's the difference between Cordyceps militaris and Cordyceps sinensis?
- Cordyceps militaris: Easier to cultivate, often not vegan, contains higher levels of cordycepin and is often fruiting-body based.
- Cordyceps sinensis: Traditionally wild-harvested and now typically grown as mycelium on grain; often has lower cordycepin but standardization can resolve this problem.
