The CS-4 strain is today the reference for Cordyceps as a supplement. It naturally concentrates the majority of Cordyceps’ sought-after active compounds, with a dense nutrient profile from the very first capsule. Produced through controlled fermentation, it offers considerable advantages over wild Cordyceps harvested above 4,000 metres in the Himalayan highlands: a consistent active-compound profile, complete traceability, and an eco-responsible approach that preserves the fragile biodiversity of those mountain ecosystems. At 60% polysaccharides including 20% beta-glucans, this is a rare concentration of actives, complemented by minor but important compounds — cordycepin, cordycepic acid, adenosine, ergosterol.

Cordyceps has been recognised for millennia in Asian tradition for its capacity to support physical energy and the body’s resistance to stress and fatigue. This mushroom is especially valued by athletes for endurance and recovery, and by active people wanting stable energy throughout the day — useful during seasonal fatigue, intense physical exertion, or periods of overload.

The CS-4 strain is obtained through controlled liquid fermentation from young, non-sporulated mycelium, harvested by hand at perfect maturity before spore release, guaranteeing maximal nutrient and active-compound concentration. This preserves the mushroom’s full “totum” — its complete set of beneficial constituents in optimal proportions. Controlled fermentation offers a major advantage over wild harvesting: reproducibility of the active-compound profile from batch to batch, eliminating variations linked to climate and altitude — the result is an extract of consistent, analytically verifiable strength and purity.

Dose: 1 to 2 capsules a day with a glass of water, during or after a meal. For maintenance, one daily 500 mg capsule is enough; athletes or people going through increased fatigue can raise this to 2 capsules (1,000 mg of dry extract) a day. The 60-capsule format covers one to two months, and courses can be repeated, particularly at seasonal changes or during sustained physical exertion, with a short break between monthly cycles.

This food supplement is not a substitute for a varied, balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. Do not exceed the recommended daily dose. Keep out of reach of young children. Pregnant or breastfeeding women and people on medical treatment should consult a healthcare professional before starting supplementation. People allergic to mushrooms should avoid this product. In case of a specific health condition, seek medical advice first. Stop use if any unusual reaction occurs.

How should I take Cordyceps CS-4 capsules?

1 to 2 capsules a day with a glass of water, during or after a meal. One capsule a day is enough for maintenance; athletes or those in recovery can increase to 2 a day.

Why is the CS-4 strain preferred?

Produced by controlled fermentation, it offers a consistent, verified active profile — 60% polysaccharides and 20% beta-glucans. It is also the variety most favoured by athletes, which is why it is found in most quality Cordyceps extracts.

Can Cordyceps be combined with other adaptogens?

Yes, it pairs well with other adaptogenic mushrooms or plants such as reishi, rhodiola or ashwagandha, broadening the range of support for overall vitality.

Are there any contraindications?

Cordyceps generally suits most adults at the recommended dose. Pregnant or breastfeeding women and people on medical treatment should consult a healthcare professional first, as should people with an autoimmune condition.

Herba Barona is an independent specialist supplement shop in the heart of Paris — established in 2006. What you order is genuinely on our shelves: we ship from our own stock, with no dropshipping and no long waits.

Visit us at 10 rue Théophile Roussel, Paris 12 — or use Click & Collect and pick up your order in-store. We also deliver across France and Europe. Friendly, expert advice in English from our team.

Where is the shop?

Herba Barona is at 10 rue Théophile Roussel, 75012 Paris — a two-minute walk from Ledru-Rollin (line 8), close to Bastille. Open Tuesday to Saturday, 9:30 am–6:30 pm.

Can I order online or collect in store?

Yes. We ship across France and Europe under the same conditions as our French store, or choose Click & Collect to pick up your order for free at our Paris shop.