Types of cordyceps mushrooms available on the market today

Nowadays, with the development of science and technology, in addition to natural cordyceps, many types of cordyceps cultivated in laboratories, semi-natural or artificial, are appearing more and more. So, how many types of cordyceps are there in total?

What is cordyceps?

Cordyceps is a rare medicinal herb that takes the form of a mushroom growing from the body of a caterpillar. To be more precise, cordyceps is the parasitism of a fungus on a larva, a combination of animal and plant.

In the mountains during winter, the larva of the Thitarodes Viette moth is infected by the parasitic fungus Cordyceps sinensis. When summer arrives, it no longer retains the shape of a caterpillar because the fungus, after absorbing nutrients, elongates and protrudes above the ground.

Types of Cordyceps Currently Available

The precious medicinal herb Cordyceps is divided into various types on the market to meet different consumer needs. It is essential to clearly distinguish among them to choose the suitable Cordyceps for yourself.

Classification of Cordyceps based on several criteria:

By Origin

• Natural: Natural Cordyceps is a rare medicinal herb that grows entirely in the wild. They are often found in high mountainous regions above 4000m, such as Sichuan and Qinghai in China, Bhutan, Nepal, Thailand, and Vietnam. Harvesting them is quite difficult because they only appear in the summer. Natural Cordyceps is very expensive and also has the highest nutritional value. The price of this type ranges from 15-20 million VND for one gram.

• Artificial: Alongside natural Cordyceps, artificial Cordyceps is also highly sought after due to its reasonable price. This type is cultivated in laboratories using advanced technological techniques. Cordyceps militaris and Cordyceps takaomontana are the popular types cultivated in Vietnam. However, artificial Cordyceps only achieves 60-70% of the medicinal properties that natural ones provide.

According to the state

Cordyceps can be categorized into fresh and dried types:

• Fresh Cordyceps: Maintains the original freshness of the organism. Fresh Cordyceps offers a rich aroma and high nutritional value. However, it is more expensive than dried Cordyceps and is mainly available in artificial or semi-artificial forms. Proper storage of fresh Cordyceps is crucial, as improper methods may lead to toxicity and pose serious health risks.
• Dried Cordyceps: The most common type on the market. In dried form, Cordyceps is easier to store for longer periods, providing optimal nutritional and economic value for consumers. It is a popular choice for brewing tea or preparing nutritious and delicious dishes for families

According to the preparation form (shape)

Cordyceps is processed into various forms, offering a wide range of choices and easy accessibility for users.

• Whole form: This is the purest form of Cordyceps as it retains the original shape of the medicinal material. Therefore, the whole form is also the most expensive.
• Liquid form: The essence of Cordyceps is extracted into a convenient liquid drink, making it quick and easy to use.
• Capsule form: Through various processing stages, Cordyceps is encapsulated in specific proportions. This product allows for easy storage and is highly popular in countries like the United States, South Korea, and Japan. Cordyceps capsules are often chosen as gifts due to their aesthetic and nutritional value.
• Powder form: After drying and initial processing, Cordyceps is ground into powder while retaining its nutritional value. When purchasing, it is essential to choose reputable suppliers, as this form can be easily adulterated with other powders, leading to substandard quality. Cordyceps powder can be used in various ways, such as mixing into beverages, making facial masks, or as a seasoning in dishes.

Classification of Cordyceps by shape

Another way to classify Cordyceps is based on its shape.

• Cordyceps parasitizing on ghost moth larvae: This type has the highest nutritional value and price. It can be found in both natural and artificial forms.
• Cordyceps parasitizing on silkworm pupae: During experiments, researchers discovered a method to grow Cordyceps on silkworm pupae, which provides effectiveness comparable to those parasitizing on ghost moth larvae. Its nutritional value reaches 80–90% of that of natural Cordyceps.
• Cordyceps cultivated on grain substrate: In this case, Cordyceps is cultured on grain-based substrates. This form is more affordable, with a wide range of products available on the market.

It is essential to evaluate the content of bioactive compounds and other active ingredients when choosing the right type of Cordyceps to suit individual needs. Use Cordyceps wisely and scientifically to improve your health effectively!