Chinese Caterpillar Fungus

Caterpillar fungus, or worm grass, is known in China by the Tibetan term, yartsa gunbu, which means "winter worm, summer grass." It's one of the most highly valued medical materials in traditional Chinese medicine, along with ginseng and pilos antler.

The fungus forms in mountainous regions between 3,000 and 5,000 meters (about 10,000 to 16,000 feet) above sea level when a form of parasitic fungus called Cordyceps Sinensis hijacks and feeds off the bodies of ghost moth larvae that have burrowed into the soil, ultimately killing the hosts. The fungus then pushes the remains of their bodies to the surface to spread its spores.

The mummified caterpillars, or stick insects, are a traditional Tibetan cure that is believed to fight cancer and the aging process and boost the libido and the immune system. The vitalizing effect of Caterpillar fungus prompted some Western media to coin the nickname "the Viagra of Himalayas," which heightened interest in caterpillar fungus in the West and boosted demand and prices.

But yuartsa gunbu has a long history. It was mentioned in a 15th century Tibetan medicinal text titled "An Ocean of Aphrodisiacal Qualities." Researchers have been able to isolate some pharmacological compounds from the organism that have been found to have useful medical applications.

The world took notice in 1993, when a team of Chinese athletes broke several world records in track and field events, and their coach said it was partly because of their consumption of caterpillar fungus. The reputation and popularity of caterpillar fungus has continued to grow.

As word got out about caterpillar fungus an international market grew. Now caterpillar fungus is one of the most sought after medicines in the world, bringing high prices in world markets. It's the most valuable parasite in the world. It can cost as much as $50,000 a pound. It's worth three times its weight in gold.

In Yunnan caterpillar fungus grows wild in the mountains. Every spring there is a 40-day season when it can be found on the slopes. Many of the locals go out during the season to collect caterpillar fungus and some of them sell it in the cities. It is also sold in some stores, so it’s possible to buy some without having to dig it for yourself if you are visiting Yunnan.