Cordyceps sinensis (CS-4) extract (Chinese caterpillar fungus)

Cordyceps is a rare and therefore extremely expensive fungus. It was originally discovered by herders in the Tibetan highlands, who observed remarkable vitality and resilience in their animals that grazed on Cordyceps mushrooms.

Unlike all other medicinal mushrooms, Cordyceps does not grow on old wood, but as a parasite of a specific caterpillar species, hence the name "caterpillar fungus". Today, however, Cordyceps is no longer cultivated in live caterpillars, but i.d.R. on special substrates.

Since the Cordyceps fruiting body is very expensive (1 kg currently costs around €30,000), the mycelium is cultivated worldwide instead. This is done on a natural nutrient solution and not just on wood or straw, resulting in a very pure and highly effective mushroom raw material, known as "CS-4" It is called CS-4. Several studies have shown that CS-4 is chemically identical to the traditional Cordyceps mushroom.

• Where do the mushrooms come from?
  • The raw material for our mushroom extracts comes from the Chinese highlands, far from civilization, as the mushrooms find optimal climatic conditions in the region's invigorating climate to develop their valuable components. European greenhouse mushrooms are unfortunately not exposed to such a climate. Because we have each batch tested externally and independently not only for microbial contamination and heavy metals, but also, for some time now, for ETO (ethylene oxide), we offer our customers the highest level of safety without having to forgo the advantages of cultivating the mushrooms in their natural environment.
• Where are the capsules produced?
  • Our medicinal mushroom capsules are manufactured exclusively in Germany on certified production lines.
• Why aren't your mushroom capsules "organic"?
  • Experience has shown that, especially in China, relying solely on an organic certification is unfortunately insufficient. Therefore, we have every batch tested by external laboratories, both before the raw materials are shipped and as the finished, encapsulated product. In addition to the standard analyses for heavy metals and microbial contamination, we also test for ethylene oxide (ETO), as contamination of raw materials from India, China, and Turkey has unfortunately been frequently detected recently. This allows us to guarantee our customers the highest level of safety without relying solely on certifications.
• Do you test your mushrooms for ethylene oxide (ETO)?
  • Since ethylene oxide is unfortunately often used to fumigate containers to prevent microbial contamination, cases of ETO-contaminated food are currently on the rise. Therefore, we have decided to have the ETO levels in all our mushrooms tested by the renowned Hamburg laboratory GBA. This ensures that our mushroom extracts never exceed the permitted maximum levels.
• Why extract and not powder?
  • Many polysaccharides/beta-glucans in powder form cannot be absorbed or metabolized by the body because they are protected by chitin cell walls, and humans lack the chitinase enzyme needed to break down this chitin. Furthermore, depending on the mushroom, the polysaccharides typical of mushrooms are present in mushroom powder at a maximum of 3-10%. Higher concentrations and improved bioavailability can only be achieved through an extraction process.
• How long should the mushrooms be taken?
  • This cannot be answered generally. Experience shows that results appear after a minimum of 6 weeks and a maximum of about 3 months. Dosage and duration of intake also depend, for example, on whether the medicinal mushrooms are used for prevention or treatment. Generally, it is recommended to pause intake as soon as an improvement is noticeable. However, if in doubt, always consult your doctor or a mycotherapist.
• Why do mushrooms from different batches have different colors?
  • Mushrooms are natural products, and therefore their taste and color are always subject to variations. Besides natural causes, various processing parameters can also influence the color of the mushroom extract, such as the drying process (temperature control). Storage can also alter the color, as mushroom extract is highly hygroscopic and can clump and darken by absorbing moisture.
• Can the capsules be opened and, for example, added to drinks or food?
  • Yes, this is perfectly possible. But please add the mushroom extract only after cooking.
• Can taking mushrooms cause headaches?
  • Because mushrooms are very high in fiber and hygroscopic (absorb moisture), it is important to drink plenty of fluids while taking them. Failure to do so can lead to headaches due to dehydration.
• What does the "shellbroken process" achieve?
  • The shellbroken process grinds the previously gently dried mushrooms very finely, making their valuable nutrients more bioavailable to our bodies. Very coarse powder cannot be sufficiently broken down and metabolized within the short timeframe of digestion.
• Are medicinal mushrooms also suitable for children?
  • Medicinal mushrooms are very well tolerated and therefore generally suitable for children. However, please always consult a doctor or mycotherapist before taking them.