Spoiler: Not all mushrooms turn you into a zombie. Here’s what Cordyceps actually are and why they’re showing up in wellness products everywhere.
This blog post references The Last of Us for cultural and educational commentary only. Moksha Chocolate is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by HBO, Sony Interactive Entertainment, or Naughty Dog. All trademarks and content related to The Last of Us are the property of their respective owners.
If you've watched The Last of Us, you’ve probably heard of Cordyceps mushrooms. In the show, a mutated fungus causes a global outbreak by infecting humans, turning them into zombies. It’s a compelling story, and it’s sparked a lot of curiosity about whether Cordyceps are real, and what they actually do.
Cordyceps mushrooms are real. But they’re not something to fear. In fact, the type used in wellness products today has a long history of use in traditional medicine, particularly in supporting energy, stamina, and focus.
If you’re here because the show made you curious, or because you’ve seen Cordyceps popping up in your life more and more, we’re glad you’re here. In this article, we’ll walk through what Cordyceps mushrooms actually are, how they’re used in real life, and why they’ve become a favorite in the world of functional foods.
What Cordyceps Are and Why Do They Matter
Cordyceps are a type of mushroom traditionally used in herbal and Eastern wellness practices. Today, they’re often included in foods, energy drinks and supplements as part of a functional approach to health and well-being.
The variety commonly used in wellness products is Cordyceps militaris, which is cultivated in controlled environments without the use of insects. It’s being studied for its potential to support endurance, energy metabolism, and overall vitality when used as part of a balanced lifestyle.
You may have heard of another species, Ophiocordyceps unilateralis, which targets insects and inspired the storyline in The Last of Us. That species is not used in human food or wellness products. The Cordyceps found in functional chocolate, teas, and blends are entirely different and are considered safe for general use when consumed as directed.
Myth vs. Reality: What the Show Got (Kind of) Right
In The Last of Us, a fictional outbreak is caused by a mutated fungus that takes over the human brain, leading to a full-scale collapse of society. That storyline is inspired by a real fungus called Ophiocordyceps unilateralis, which does exist in nature — but it only affects insects, not humans.
There are hundreds of different species of Cordyceps. Most are parasitic and do actually grow on bugs. In nature, Cordyceps spores will infect an insect, take over its body and mind, kill it, and eventually sprout a mushroom through its head. In the wild, this species targets ants, takes over their central nervous system, and compels them to climb to an elevated spot before the fungus releases its spores. It’s a remarkable and eerie process that’s fascinated scientists for years. But it’s also very species specific. There is no evidence that this fungus, or any other Cordyceps species, can infect humans in this way.
The mushroom used in wellness products like in Moksha Chocolate is Cordyceps militaris, a completely different species. It doesn’t hijack anything. Instead, it’s grown on a vegan substrate in clean, controlled environments and is used in a very different context: to support natural energy and help people feel more balanced throughout their day.
So yes, there’s a sliver of real biology in the show’s premise, but what Cordyceps does in the wellness world is a far cry from fiction.
Benefits of Cordyceps
Cordyceps has been used in traditional Chinese and Tibetan medicine for centuries, where it’s often valued for its ability to support vitality and resilience. Today, it's become popular in the world of functional wellness for many of the same reasons.
While research is still emerging, studies have begun exploring how Cordyceps, particularly Cordyceps militaris, may support:
- Energy metabolism, by helping the body use oxygen more efficiently
- Endurance and stamina, especially during physical activity
- Focus and clarity, when used consistently over time
- Adaptogenic support, which refers to helping the body respond to occasional stress
- Libido support
It’s important to note that everyone’s body is different, and Cordyceps isn’t meant to be a quick fix. Like most functional mushrooms, it tends to work best when used regularly as part of a balanced lifestyle.
If you’re looking for a way to support steady energy without relying on caffeine, Cordyceps is worth exploring.
How to Use Cordyceps in Daily Life
One of the great things about Cordyceps is how easy it is to incorporate into your routine. While it’s available in capsules and powders, many people are turning to more enjoyable formats like chocolate or cacao blends to get their daily dose.
At Moksha Chocolate, we use whole fruiting body Cordyceps militaris in our small-batch recipes designed to support your day without the jitters or crash that can come from stimulants. Our Lion’s Mane & Cordyceps Chocolate Products are a popular option for people looking to start their morning with clarity, calm energy, and a little indulgence.
Here are a few ways people enjoy Cordyceps:
- As a morning ritual to support focus and stamina throughout the day
- In the afternoon as a gentle, caffeine-free energy boost
- As part of a larger routine alongside other functional mushrooms like Lion’s Mane or Reishi
There’s no one “right” way to take Cordyceps. What matters most is finding a format you enjoy, so it becomes something you actually want to reach for daily.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cordyceps
Is Cordyceps the same mushroom from The Last of Us?
No. The show is based on a fungus called Ophiocordyceps unilateralis, which only affects insects. The Cordyceps used in wellness products is Cordyceps militaris, a different species that’s safe for human use and grown in clean, controlled environments.
What does Cordyceps do?
Cordyceps has been traditionally used to support energy, stamina, and resilience. Modern research is exploring its potential role in supporting endurance, focus, and how the body uses oxygen, especially when used consistently over time.
Can I take Cordyceps every day?
Yes. Many people use Cordyceps as part of a daily routine. As with any wellness product, it’s a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider before making changes to your routine.
Is Cordyceps safe?
Cordyceps militaris is considered safe for general use when consumed as directed. Be sure to choose high quality products made with transparency and care, like those crafted in small batches with organic ingredients.
How do I know if Cordyceps is working for me?
Most people don’t experience dramatic effects overnight. Functional mushrooms like Cordyceps are best known for their benefits over time, supporting your body in subtle, consistent ways as part of a larger wellness lifestyle.
Final Thoughts
Cordyceps may have made headlines because of a fictional outbreak, but in the real world, this functional mushroom has been quietly supporting wellness for centuries. Safe, well-studied, and surprisingly versatile, Cordyceps militaris is nothing like its insect-infecting cousin, and it’s certainly not trying to take over your brain.
If you’ve been curious about trying Cordyceps, now is a great time to explore what it can look like in your routine. Whether you're starting your day with intention or just looking for a gentle way to support focus and energy, Cordyceps offers a grounded, natural option.
At Moksha, we make wellness easy and delicious with our Cordyceps Mushroom Chocolate Collection. Thoughtfully made, ethically sourced, and designed to support your day — no spores required.
