Identification
Bright orange club-shaped bodies; wild on insect pupae, cultivated on grain.
Key compound
Cordycepin (3'-deoxyadenosine) — studied for metabolic and exercise effects; human trials on VO2max show mixed results.
In practice
- Cultivated militaris ≠ wild sinensis — different products, different prices.
- Culinary/supplement use is considered safe at studied doses.