Nature holds various cryptic wonders in itself. Discovery of Yarsagumbais such an example, which has positively affected livelihood of thousands in the regions where it is found and also its beneficiaries. Popularly known ‘Himalayan Viagra’ claims to have solutions for various medical problems. With increase in demand and hence price, we are seeing distressed situation among people in these localities. Cases of robbery, murder are becoming usual and overharvesting of the fungus has posed ecological threats. Despite its ancient importance, there are less scientific studies. Hence, it is the high time to take such initiative to know the nature of fungus and caterpillar association for its mass production in-vitro or in-vivo, thus curbing the gold rush and ecological threats.
Ankesh Kumar Sharma*
B.A. College of Agriculture, Anand Agricultural University, Anand, Gujarat (388 110), India
Gyaneshwar Jha
Prajjal Dey
Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneshwar, Odisha (751 003), India
Sharma, A.K., Jha, G., Dey, P., 2019. People going Berserk over “Himalayan Viagra- an entomopathogenic fungus”. Biotica Research Today 1(1), 12-13.
Chakraborty, S., Chowdhury, S., Nandi, G., 2014. Review on Yarsagumba (Cordyceps sinensis)- An exotic medicinal mushroom. Journal of Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry 6(2), 339-346.
Ghanshyam, G., Manvitha, K., Yarsagumba., 2017. A miracle mushroom its history, cultivation, phytopharmacology and medicinal uses. International Journal of Herbal Medicine 5(2), 69-72.
Los Angeles Times, 1993. Chinese Runner Sets 1,500 Record : Track and field: After Qu Yunxia runs event in 3:50.46, coach says key to team’s success is a tonic from caterpillar fungus. URL: http://articles.latimes. com/1993-09-12/sports/sp-34485_1_caterpillarfungus.