No, Cordyceps Will Not Turn You Into A Zombie
Why cordyceps health benefits are real — and the zombie myth isn’t
Are you intrigued by the potential cordyceps health benefits but a little freaked out by their reputation as a “zombie fungus”? Don’t worry. While cordyceps may make great horror-movie inspiration, in real life they’re safe and can actually support your health in powerful ways. Let’s bust the myth, explain the science, and share why you might want to add cordyceps to your wellness routine.
The Myth: Cordyceps as a Zombie-Maker
The cordyceps fungus gained pop-culture fame through The Last of Us and similar shows, which depict a mutated strain infecting humans and turning them into mindless zombies. In reality, cordyceps are parasitic fungi that infect insects — not humans. While some species of cordyceps do take over the behavior of ants or other arthropods, there’s zero evidence that cordyceps can infect people.
Can Cordyceps Infect Humans?
Short answer: no. While wild cordyceps species infect insects, they can’t survive or reproduce in the human body. The cordyceps supplements you see on the market today are lab-grown (on grain substrates) and designed for human consumption. They’re packed with bioactive compounds — without any of the insect-infecting properties.
See how we include cordyceps in our Daybreak Blends for a daily boost of focus and energy.
Cordyceps Health Benefits
Modern science is catching up to what traditional Chinese medicine has known for centuries. Early research suggests cordyceps health benefits may include:
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Boosting energy & athletic performance: Supporting oxygen uptake and stamina.
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Improving immunity: Polysaccharides and beta-glucans may help modulate immune function.
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Reducing inflammation: Helping soothe the gut and support joint health.
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Cardiovascular support: Possible protective effects on heart health.
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Healthy aging: Antioxidants that may help fight oxidative stress.
See some research on the benefits of cordyceps here!
Cordyceps & the Zombie Myth — Why It Stays on Screen
Cordyceps fungi can alter insect behavior — but that’s where it ends. Their complex life cycle and temperature requirements make infecting humans biologically impossible. So while cordyceps will probably keep inspiring zombie storylines, you can safely enjoy its health benefits without any worry of “turning.”
How to Add Cordyceps to Your Routine
You’ll find cordyceps available as capsules, extracts, teas, and blends. One of the simplest (and tastiest) ways to enjoy cordyceps daily is with our Daybreak Blends. It combines cordyceps with other functional mushrooms like chaga, turkey tail, and lion’s mane — plus antioxidant-rich cacao — for smooth energy, focus, and immune support.
The Bottom Line
Cordyceps aren’t just safe — they’re one of the most exciting natural supplements for energy, immunity, and endurance. Forget the zombie myth; cordyceps health benefits are real, well-researched, and worth adding to your wellness routine.
