Have you heard about the rise of functional mushrooms in Ireland? Mushrooms are no longer a taboo topic in 2025 as people start to grasp the difference between functional mushrooms and psychedelics.
For quite a long time, mushrooms of the non-button variety were often sceptical thanks to their association with psychedelic types. Now, though, the conversation around functional mushrooms is rapidly changing.
More Irish people are open to exploring the associated health benefits, such as energy levels, enhanced endurance, and respiratory health.
One particular mushroom that’s making waves in the wellness community is Cordyceps. This is an ancient fungus with a long history of use in traditional Chinese and Tibetan medicine.
But what is Cordyceps, how does it work, and why is it gaining popularity in Ireland?
Cordyceps in Ireland: Growing awareness & availability
Women, as well as men in the wellness space, are increasingly embracing adaptogenic mushrooms and herbs as part of their daily diet. Cordyceps, Lion’s Mane and other herbs like Ashwagandha are a few thriving players.
While many people are familiar with hemp oil and other natural supplements, Cordyceps is quickly becoming a new go-to for athletes, biohackers, and those looking for natural energy support.
In Ireland, functional mushroom use is growing, and Cordyceps can be found in health food stores, online retailers, and speciality supplement shops.
Some people are integrating it into pre-workout routines for increased energy levels without the crash that often comes with caffeine. Others benefit from the ancient use of Cordyceps as a respiratory system support.
Cordyceps explained
Cordyceps is a type of parasitic fungus that naturally grows on insect larvae. You may recall its name being used to dramatise the rise of zombies in The Last Of Us.
Thankfully, this is not reality, and typically, it is found in high-altitude regions of Tibet, Nepal, and China (preying only on insects!).
While the wild variety (Cordyceps sinensis) is rarer and expensive, modern cultivation techniques have made Cordyceps militaris widely available as a functional, natural supplement.
The Cordyceps mushroom is packed with bioactive compounds, including cordycepin and polysaccharides, contributing to its many health benefits.
What are the health benefits of cordyceps?
Cordyceps were traditionally used for centuries to boost energy levels, endurance, and respiratory function, as well as to support the immune system. As of 2025, modern research studies and clinical trials are uncovering the true science behind these anecdotal uses and claims.
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Better energy & athletic performance
Cordyceps is considered a natural adaptogen, meaning it helps the body cope with stress and fatigue (naturally!).
Research study results show that it can boost ATP (adenosine triphosphate) production – the primary energy source for muscles. This makes Cordyceps mushroom beneficial for athletes and fitness enthusiasts in particular.
Take this study as an example: in 2010, published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, the research found that Cordyceps supplementation improved exercise performance and oxygen consumption in older adults.1
Another study carried out on trained cyclists showed better endurance performance after taking Cordyceps for three weeks.2
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Respiratory health & oxygen use
Those with asthma, COPD, or other respiratory conditions will be happy to hear that Cordyceps can support better lung function.
Studies confirm that it boosts oxygen uptake, making breathing easier during physical activity or at rest.
One such study published in Chinese Medicine reported enhanced respiratory function in individuals with chronic bronchitis after Cordyceps supplementation.3
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Immunity support
Like other functional mushrooms, Cordyceps contains polysaccharides and antioxidants that can help regulate your immune system.
Scientific research shows it can boost white blood cell activity and make it easier to recover from an illness or support the immune system daily.
Facts about Cordyceps
- Once upon a time in ancient Tibet, Cordyceps was worth more than gold thanks to its rarity and powerful health benefits.
- Elite Olympic athletes have reportedly used Cordyceps to boost endurance and stamina naturally.
- Cordyceps militaris (cultivated form) actually contains higher levels of cordycepin than Cordyceps sinensis (wild form).
- Its nickname is ‘The Caterpillar Fungus’ as it acts as a parasite, invading and growing on insect larvae.
How are cordyceps used?
Cordyceps is available in various supplement forms, making it easy to add to your daily routine.
The most common supplement options are:
- Tincture extracts: Liquid extracts offer a highly concentrated dose and soak quickly into the bloodstream when dropped under the tongue. They are also versatile as they can be added to drinks like herbal tea or smoothies.
- Capsules: Convenient and pre-dosed for easy supplementation but be mindful of unnecessary filler ingredients.
- Powders: These can be mixed into smoothies, coffee, or protein shakes. Again, be certain of the quality of the ingredients and how much mushroom extract you are really getting.
- Teas: Cordyceps-infused teas provide a mild and relaxing way to add to your diet.
Legal status of Cordyceps in the EU
Cordyceps is legal in the European Union, as it is classified as a food supplement rather than a controlled substance.
The EU Novel Food Regulation ensures that Cordyceps sold in supplement form meet quality and safety standards, but these standards aren’t always enforced or clear.
Because of this it is strongly suggested to do your research and purchase from a reputable supplier who can answer any questions you may have.
Conclusion
It’s clear that Cordyceps is gaining momentum with Irish biohackers and supplement users as more people explore the natural benefits, like energy, endurance, and respiratory health, linked with this mushroom.
With scientific studies to back up ancient claims, it’s quickly becoming a trusted supplement for athletes, health-conscious individuals, and those looking to support lung function for any reason.
Don’t just sit back and watch the functional mushroom market expand; have a try for yourself.
References
- Chen, S., et al. (2010). “Effects of Cordyceps on exercise performance in healthy elderly subjects.” Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine.
- Earnest, C. P., et al. (2004). “Effects of Cordyceps sinensis on endurance performance in cyclists.” International Journal of Sports Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism.
- Zhu, J. S., et al. (1998). “The scientific rediscovery of a precious ancient Chinese herbal regimen: Cordyceps sinensis: Part II.” Chinese Medicine.
