Trade of Cordyceps sinensis from high altitudes of the Indian Himalaya: Conservation and biotechnological priorities

Cordyceps sinensis, a parasitic fungus in the alpine regions, is highly valued in the traditional medicinal system of China, Nepal and India. The cost of one kg of wild collected fungus in the market varies from 30,000 to60,000 Nepali Rupees in Nepal, and about Rs 1 lakh in India. This study explores the collection, trade route, market price at various stages of trade, and linkages in the region. Market price, trade and channels of Cordyceps collection are not transparent in the Indian subcontinent. Collection from wild habitats is a new income-generation opportunity in the remote locations of the Central Himalayan region. Among the stakeholders, conservation and sustainable harvest is the issue of debate. There is need for scientific exploration and research on biological screening of the Indian strains of this fungus, status in natural habitats, and artificial cultivation to harvest timely the prospects. Highlighting this species as a Chinese herb and its substances as anti-aging, pro-sexual, anti-cancer and immune boosting, now Cordyceps and its products are present in the market of the Western countries as over-the-counter medicine/tonic; however, the primary source is Tibet. For the past few years, there has been large-scale harvesting of the wild material from Nepal and India. This study highlights the importance of the fungus as medicine, a case study of collection and trade in the Central Himalayan region, and research needs in the Indian context.