Cordyceps Militaris Extract
Cordyceps militaris, also known as caterpillar fungus, is a fungus belonging to the Cordyceps genus that was first discovered in China. Cordyceps Militaris is rich in bioactive compounds including cordyceptic acid (d-mannitol), cordyceptin, polysaccharides, and SOD. Research shows that the fruiting body of Cordyceps militaris has a higher nutritional value than its mycelium. Its constituents exhibits strong antioxidant properties that effectively reduce the generation of free radicals, as well as providing anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects. In particular, cordyceptic acid helps regulate physiological balance and support male physiological functions to enhance vitality and promote stamina.
Taiwan Regulatory Information
According to the Taiwan Food and Drug Administration (TFDA), the use of Cordyceps militaris as a food ingredient should comply with the following regulation:
- Cordyceps militaris fruiting body:
- The fruiting body of Cordyceps militaris is obtained by artificially inoculating the fungal strain onto a culture medium for cultivation; therefore, it does not contain an insect body. After harvesting, the fruiting body can be consumed directly or processed through drying and pulverization.
- The maximum daily intake of Cordyceps militaris fruiting body is 600 mg (dry weight). If used as an extract, the maximum daily intake calculated by cordyceptin and adenosine content must not exceed 3.6 mg and 0.5 mg, respectively.
- Cordyceps militaris mycelium:
- The mycelium of Cordyceps militaris is produced from the fungal strain through liquid culture, after which the strain is deactivated by heat treatment.
- The maximum daily intake limit of Cordyceps militaris mycelium is 2 grams (dry weight). If used as an extract, the maximum daily intake calculated by cordyceptin and adenosine content must not exceed 3.6 mg and 0.5 mg, respectively.
- Foods containing Cordyceps militaris as an ingredient must be labeled in Chinese with the following statements:
- A warning message stating: “Not recommended for use for infants, children, pregnant women, and individuals with fungal allergies”
- For products in the form of capsules or tablets, a statement based on the recommended daily usage must be added: “Do not exceed ○ servings (or capsules/tablets) per day.”
