Ophiocordyceps sinensis

Ophiocordyceps sinensis is a fungus also known as Himalayan Viagra, or Himalayan Gold has entered the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species. It is called Himalayan Gold because the fungus sells locally for around Rs 10 lakh per kg and goes on to be sold in international markets like China (where it is highly prized) at upwards of Rs 20 lakh per kg.

About the Ophiocordyceps sinensis

• This is a fungal parasite of larvae (caterpillars) that belongs to the ghost moth.
• These are endemic to the Himalayan and Tibetan plateau and are found in China, Bhutan, Nepal and India.
• This fungus is locally known as Kira Jari (in India), Yartsagunbu (in Tibet) and Yarsagumba (in Nepal).
• In India, it is primarily found in Uttarakhand in the higher reaches of districts like Pithoragarh and Chamoli.

Medicinal Value

• It has been used in traditional Tibetan and Chinese medicine as a tonic, as a therapeutic medicine for lung, liver and kidney problems.
• In recent times, it has widely traded as an aphrodisiac (stimulating sexual desire) and a powerful tonic, often called the ‘Himalayan Viagra.’

Conservation Status

• It is listed under the ‘vulnerable category’ as per IUCN Red List.

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