Cordyceps sinensis is a parasitic fungus that infects ghost moth caterpillars in high-altitude Himalayan regions, prized in TCM for tonifying qi and kidneys. Its reputation for restoring vitality and endurance stems from its unique life cycle and rare cultivation, commanding premium prices and deep historical reverence across East Asian medicine.
fruiting body, mycelium
powder, capsule, decoction, extract
3–9g dried fruiting body daily as decoction; 500–1500mg extract daily in divided doses
Use cultivated (not wild-harvested) to avoid contamination.
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