Common Name Standardized: cordyceps Other: Chinese caterpillar fungus Botanical Name Cordyceps sinensis (Berk.) Sacc. Plant Family: Clavicipitaceae Overview Introduction Use of Cordyceps sinensis dates back to the 15th century in traditional Tibetan and Chinese medicines. The wild form of Cordyceps is rare and expensive; consequently, a strain isolated from the wild form is now cultivated and commonly used. Constituents Adenine, adenosine, uracil, uridine, guanidine, guanosine, hypoxanthine, inosine, thymine, thymidine, and deoxyuridine. Parts Used Whole mushroom.. Summary While Cordyceps has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries, modern research affirms its value. There is no expiration date.