Current Progress on Cordyceps Militaris, Its Metabolite Function, and Production

Cordyceps militaris is a medicinal fungus recognized for its bioactive compounds, including cordycepin, D-mannitol, ergothioneine, adenosine, and polysaccharides, which offer antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antitumor, and anti-hair loss benefits. The document reviews the production methods of these metabolites, emphasizing the advantages of liquid culture and repeated-batch fermentation for efficient and scalable production. It highlights the potential of C. militaris as a cost-effective alternative to C. sinensis in traditional medicine, with improved yields through optimized fermentation processes and UV-induced mutations.