Bio-fermentation technology
Bio-fermentation technology makes it possible to grow a number of fungi in large tanks and, in a matter of days, a large quantity can be produced. The technology has now become highly advanced and is making previously rare herbs like Cordyceps and Ganoderma much more accessible. Many studies indicate that the chemical nature of this biotechnology Cordyceps is almost identical to that of the wild variety. The Cordyceps contained in most commercial products is produced by this technology.
Wild Cordyceps
Studies show that wild Cordyceps is richer in certain components and the proportion of components is different, which probably makes a difference in activity. Cultivated Cordyceps is still a premium tonic herb and the Cordyceps most commonly found in Chinese herb stores is cultivated.
Advantages of bio-fermentation
Standardization
Highly controlled by scientific means during its growth and "standardized", every batch is virtually identical and, in a sense, "perfect." This is very important in pharmaceutical terms because without standardization, it is difficult or impossible to develop [...]-type standards for substances like Cordyceps. Once a herb can be standardized, all kinds of studies can be conducted that will be accepted by the scientific community. However, standardization, by itself, does not make a product effective.
Cost
Products can be produced more cheaply by bio-fermentation. High quality wild Cordyceps is rare and now sells for well over a thousand dollars a pound in cities like Hong Kong, Tokyo, New York or London. The culture-grown Cordyceps is available at a third of the cost, with approximately the same benefits. Fermentation technology makes this substance more readily available.
Vegetarian
Wild Cordyceps, by weight, is mostly caterpillar. For vegetarians, and those who do not want to consume caterpillars, the new technology provides a solution. The fermentation technology does not include the caterpillar in the growing process. The fungus is grown without the use of animal nutrients and the result is a 100% pure "vegetarian" health product.