NATURAMEDICIN HERBARIUM
Chinese caterpillar fungus — Cordyceps
Winter caterpillar, summer grass.
The name caterpillar fungus holds an unusual story of a fungus and an insect. In cold mountain regions, the fungus grows through a larva's body; later, a slender fungal structure emerges from it. This transformation lies behind the traditional name “winter caterpillar, summer grass”.
DISCOVER THE FUNGUS
Two organisms, one story in nature
Chinese caterpillar fungus is a fungus, not a herb. Its scientific name is Ophiocordyceps sinensis; the older name Cordyceps sinensis is still found in books and common usage.
Life high in the mountains
The natural habitat of Chinese caterpillar fungus is the mountain grassland of the Tibetan Plateau and surrounding regions. It grows at altitudes of several thousand metres, where it must cope with cold and a short growing season.
The fungus and the larva: what happens underground?
The mycelium grows through an insect larva and draws nutrients from it. A fungal growth bearing reproductive structures then emerges from the mummified host. The familiar image therefore shows the fungus together with the remains of its host.
From mountain gathering to cultivation
Chinese caterpillar fungus has a place in both Tibetan and Chinese tradition. Today, alongside wild-collected material, cultivated material is also available. The fruiting body and mycelium are distinguished; the related Cordyceps militaris is a different species. The story of a wild fungus does not, on its own, establish the origin of a particular extract.
When professional advice matters
If you take medicines that affect blood clotting or lower blood sugar, discuss preparations containing Chinese caterpillar fungus with your doctor or pharmacist. They may interact with these medicines. For a combined supplement, the whole ingredients list must be considered.
NATURAMEDICIN
Chinese caterpillar fungus — Cordyceps in EQINIL
EQINIL contains an extract from the fruiting body of Chinese caterpillar fungus. Discover the purpose of the complete formula, its ingredients and recommended use.
A food supplement is not a substitute for a varied, balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. Follow the recommendations and warnings for the specific product.