Cordyceps militaris: An Overview of Its Chemical Constituents in Relation to Biological Activity

Cordyceps spp. mushrooms have a long tradition of use as a natural raw material in Asian ethnomedicine because of their adaptogenic, tonic effects and their ability to reduce fatigue and stimulate the immune system in humans. This review aims to present the chemical composition and medicinal properties of Cordyceps militaris fruiting bodies and mycelium, as well as mycelium from in vitro cultures. The analytical results of the composition of C. militaris grown in culture media show the bioactive components such as cordycepin, polysaccharides, gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), ergothioneine and others described in the review. To summarize, based on the presence of several bioactive compounds that contribute to biological activity, C. militaris mushrooms definitely deserve to be considered as functional foods and also have great potential for medicinal use. Recent scientific reports indicate the potential of cordycepin in antiviral activity, particularly against COVID-19.

Automated summary

Due to their adaptogenic, tonic effects and ability to reduce fatigue and stimulate the immune system in humans, Cordyceps militaris mushrooms contain bioactive compounds like cordycepin, polysaccharides, gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), ergothioneine, making them suitable as functional foods and potential for medicinal use. Scientific reports also suggest the antiviral activity of cordycepin, promising in combating diseases like COVID-19.