CordyMax Cs-4® Bottle (USA)

CordyMax Cs-4 is a standardized Cordyceps sinensis supplement targeting cellular energy production and oxygen utilization. At US$29.00 for a 30-day supply, it's one of the most affordable entry points into Nu Skin's Pharmanex range. Cordyceps has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries for stamina and vitality, and modern clinical research has confirmed its effects on cellular ATP production and aerobic capacity. CordyMax uses the Cs-4 strain — a specific cultured cordyceps standardized for consistent bioactive compound levels, unlike wild-harvested cordyceps that varies dramatically in potency.

What Makes CordyMax Different

Wild cordyceps (Ophiocordyceps sinensis) is one of the most expensive natural products in the world — US$20,000+ per kilogram — and most "cordyceps" supplements on the US market use Cordyceps militaris or mycelium-on-grain instead of the traditional sinensis species. CordyMax uses Cs-4, a scientifically validated cultured strain of Cordyceps sinensis developed through fermentation technology that produces consistent bioactive compound levels matching wild-harvested cordyceps at a fraction of the cost.

A randomized controlled trial published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine (2010, PMID: 20804368) confirmed that Cs-4 supplementation improved VO2 max (aerobic capacity) and endurance in healthy adults after just 3 weeks. The mechanism is mitochondrial — Cordyceps supports ATP production at the cellular level, not through stimulant effects.

Key Ingredients

Cordyceps sinensis Cs-4 — standardized cultured strain with documented effects on mitochondrial ATP production, oxygen utilization, and aerobic capacity. Multiple clinical trials confirm energy and endurance improvements.

How to Use

Take 2 capsules twice daily with meals. Effects on energy and stamina typically become noticeable within 1-3 weeks of consistent use. CordyMax is the standalone version of the Cordyceps found in ageLOC R² Day — if you want targeted energy support without the full R² system, CordyMax is the straightforward option at a lower price point.

Who Is This For

Ideal for: Adults wanting non-stimulant energy support for daily stamina and exercise performance. Especially relevant for endurance athletes or anyone noticing declining exercise capacity with age.

Also suited for: Anyone curious about ageLOC R² who wants to try the core energy ingredient (Cordyceps) at a lower investment before committing to the full system.

Not recommended for: Anyone expecting immediate caffeine-like energy — Cordyceps works at the cellular level over days to weeks, not minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I buy CordyMax in the US without signing up?
Yes. No membership needed. Ships from the official US warehouse.

Is CordyMax the same as R² Day?
CordyMax contains Cordyceps Cs-4 as a standalone supplement. R² Day includes Cordyceps Cs-4 plus pomegranate extract and chokeberry extract in a broader cellular energy formula. If you want Cordyceps specifically, CordyMax is more affordable (US$29.00 vs. US$59.00). If you want the full cellular energy complex, R² Day adds complementary ingredients.

Can I take this before workouts?
Yes, though the benefits are from consistent daily use rather than acute pre-workout timing. Cordyceps builds cellular energy capacity over weeks, unlike caffeine that works immediately. Taking it before exercise doesn't provide an instant boost but contributes to better long-term endurance.

Important Information

FDA Notice: *These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Consult your healthcare provider before use if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or have a medical condition. Keep out of reach of children.

Affiliate Disclosure: NuBest Skin is an Independent Nu Skin Brand Affiliate. This website is independently operated and is not produced, endorsed, supported, or affiliated with Nu Skin Enterprises, Inc. All product names, logos, and brands are property of their respective owners.

Sources & References

1. Chen S, et al. "Effect of Cs-4 on exercise performance." Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 2010. PMID: 20804368.
2. Zhu JS, et al. "The scientific rediscovery of an ancient Chinese herbal medicine: Cordyceps sinensis." Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 1998.
3. Nu Skin Enterprises, Inc. — CordyMax Cs-4 product documentation.

Reviewed by the NuBest Skin Editorial Team. Last updated: April 2026.