A STUDY ON ETHNOMEDICINAL USES OF YARTSHAGUMBA, CORDYCEPS SINENSIS (BERK.) SACC. (CORDYCIPITACEAE), BY THE TRIBAL COMMUNITIES OF NORTH SIKKIM AND ITS CONSERVATION

Cordyceps sinensis (Berk.) Sacc. is commonly known as ‘Caterpillar Fungus’ as it is parasitic on the larvae of different insects of Dipters and Lepidoptera groups. This fungus is of great medicinal value. The whole range of Himalayas, particularly the eastern region is the native place of this taxon. Sikkim, a tiny beautiful state of India also harbours this fungus in some specific high altitude areas (4000-5500 m). The stromatic part develops from the head of the caterpillar having pungent odour even when dried. The ethnic communities of Sikkim, viz. Lapchas, Nepalese, Bhutias, Sherpas etc. use this organism for the remedy of different physical disorders including sexual impotency. It has also some effect on wild animals like Yak. The traditional uses, of this fungus by different tribal communities of North Sikkim including its other medicinal uses and conservation aspects are described.