Chaga vs. Cordyceps: Comparing the Health Benefits
Sometimes, finding the right supplement can feel like looking for a needle in a haystack. There are so many supplements out there and many of them have overlapping benefits. For instance, both cordyceps and chaga mushrooms are praised for their abilities to support the immune system.
Which should you take, and what are the differences between the two? We’re here to present the facts on these two fungi, their benefits, and when to take each one.
What Is Chaga Mushroom?
Chaga mushroom (Inonotus obliquus) grows on hardwood trees pretty much anywhere in the northern hemisphere. If you saw this mushroom in the wild, you might not immediately recognize it as a mushroom.
Chaga doesn’t have the stalks, gills, and caps that we associate with normal mushrooms. Instead, chaga looks like a black, lumpy mass that grows out of the side of the tree. It has a similar appearance to charcoal and it can be tricky to spot, which is why it’s mainly harvested in the winter when the trees are bare.
What Are the Benefits of Chaga?
Chaga mushroom has been used for thousands of years in different forms of traditional medicine. For instance, it’s a staple in Traditional Chinese Medicine as well as Russian folk medicine.
There are several reasons why chaga has been so popular for so long, and they all have to do with its health benefits.
The benefits of chaga include:
- Supports Immune Health: Chaga mushrooms may support the body’s production of white blood cells, which are key for immune health.
- Encourages Hair, Skin, and Nail Health: These mushrooms also contain melanin, a compound that can support strong hair, skin, and nails.
- Provides Antioxidant Support: Chaga contains many powerful antioxidants, which is why it’s also called “the king of mushrooms.”
- May Support Healthy Blood Sugar Levels: Some studies suggest that chaga may be able to encourage healthy blood sugar levels, which can affect metabolism, weight, energy levels, and overall health.
What Is Cordyceps?
Cordyceps (Cordyceps militaris) has become very popular recently, thanks to certain works of fiction. While this mushroom does have some crazy abilities, you can rest assured that these abilities definitely don’t include making zombies.
This mushroom grows by filling insects (commonly ants or caterpillars) with its mycelium. This mycelium takes over the insect’s brain, directing it to find somewhere high and open. As the mushroom matures, a fruiting body will typically sprout out of the insect’s head. Once the insect reaches its final destination, the mushroom releases its spores and begins the process all over again.
What Are the Benefits of Cordyceps?
Such an unusual mushroom is bound to have some wild health benefits, and cordyceps does not disappoint. This mushroom is also a staple in many methods of folk medicine.
The benefits of cordyceps mushroom include:
- Increases Energy Production: Cordyceps can increase the body’s production of ATP, which is our main source of energy.
- Increases Athletic Performance: Cordyceps can also increase VO2 max, which is a measurement that calculates athletic endurance.
- Supports the Immune System: Cordyceps can also support the production of white blood cells, as well as provide antiviral and immunomodulatory effects.
- Encourages Healthy Blood Sugar: This mushroom can also support a healthy blood metabolism, which is key for overall health.
- Supports a Good Night’s Sleep: Finally, cordyceps may increase non-rapid eye movement sleep, although more research is needed in this area.
Chaga vs. Cordyceps: Which Is Best?
So, now that we’ve discussed the differences between these two mushrooms, let’s get to the ultimate question. Which one is best?
The answer depends on what benefits you’re looking for. While both mushrooms can support metabolism and immune health, cordyceps is a great option for those looking to increase their performance in the gym and boost energy levels. On the other hand, chaga is a great option for those who want to maximize their antioxidant intake and support their hair, skin, and nails.
Regardless of which supplement you choose, it’s always important to consult a doctor before you add a supplement to your routine. This is especially true if you take any medications, have a pre-existing health condition (specifically, kidney conditions), or are pregnant or breastfeeding.
How To Take Chaga and Cordyceps
Chaga and cordyceps are both relatively easy to take. These mushrooms generally come in the form of capsules, powders, and tinctures.
One of the most important things to remember about mushrooms is that consistency is key. You may see more benefits if you take your supplement consistently for longer periods of time. Make sure you choose a supplement that is easy to remember and take every day.
For instance, our Mushroom Coffee+ easily takes the place of your morning cup of coffee. There’s no need to make a new routine around your supplement — simply swap your coffee for our mushroom blend, and it’ll be easy as pie to remember your daily Dose. Plus, our blend also includes L-theanine, collagen, chaga and lion’s mane mushrooms, and coffee extract.
Our blends are made with 100 percent fruiting bodies — you won’t find any mycelium or filler grains here. Our mushrooms are wild-grown on wood, just like nature intended. Plus, each mushroom is double-extracted to get every last drop of mushroom magic.
As far as how much you should take, you may want to start with the amount listed on the back of your supplement. Pay attention to your body and increase or decrease your dose depending on what benefits you’re looking for and how you feel.
The Bottom Line
Chaga and cordyceps can both support the immune system, but they aren’t exactly interchangeable. While chaga is more focused on immune and antioxidant support, cordyceps is generally used for those looking to increase stamina, endurance, and energy.
If you’re looking for a chaga supplement, consider one of our mushroom blends. They’re easy, they’re delicious, and they’re made using only the best of the best ingredients. To learn more, visit the Everyday Dose blog today.
Sources:
5 Reasons to Consider Chaga Mushrooms | American Association of Naturopathic Physicians
Cordycepin Increases Nonrapid Eye Movement Sleep via Adenosine Receptors in Rats | PMC
Cordyceps spp.: A Review on Its Immune-Stimulatory and Other Biological Potentials | PMC
