Cordyceps fungi have been documented in China since AD 620, during the Tang Dynasty. These records describe a fascinating organism capable of transitioning from an animal-like form to a plant-like form during the summer, only to revert back to an animal-like state for the winter. The initial stage of this transformation appears to have been perceived through observations, considering that fungi were commonly regarded as plants until recent times. However, the notion of insects being reborn from these fungi is more imaginative than factual. In China, Cordyceps sinensis is extensively used as a medicinal herb and is known as "Dong chong xia cao" in Chinese, which translates to "winter worm, summer grass" in English.
There exist numerous Cordyceps species around the world. Some species target ants and various other insects, while others parasitize specific types of fungi like puffballs or false truffles. Among the approximately dozen Cordyceps species found in the British Isles, Cordyceps Militaris, commonly known as the Scarlet Caterpillarclub, is the most prevalent.
When consumed as a dietary supplement, cordyceps offers several potential benefits, including:
- Enhanced exercise performance
- Strengthened immune system
- Reduced inflammation
- Improved cardiovascular health
- Lowered blood sugar levels in individuals with type 2 diabetesFurthermore, some individuals even speculate that cordyceps may possess anti-aging and anti-cancer properties.
Cordyceps Militaris
- 10cc Liquid Culture syringe
- Alcohol Prep Pad
- 16-18G 1.5" Luer Lock Needle
Cultivating Cordyceps militaris is a relatively simple process. You don't require specialized equipment like a flow hood, wood substrate, or extensive space. The key challenge lies in maintaining a consistent temperature range of 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit (15 to 21 degrees Celsius) for a period of 3 months. Once you achieve this, you've overcome the most difficult aspect. This particular mushroom species colonizes and produces fruiting bodies at the same temperature range. However, if temperatures exceed 70 degrees Fahrenheit, the mushrooms, resembling orange "Cheetos," begin to develop a fuzzy white appearance, which is not desirable. On the other hand, temperatures below 60 degrees Fahrenheit will result in slow growth of the mycelium, potentially hindering fruiting.