Bhutanese Cordyceps, also known as Yartsa Gunbu, is a rare and highly prized medicinal fungus that grows in the high-altitude regions of the Himalayas, including Bhutan. This fungus is valued for its purported medicinal properties and is sought after by traditional Chinese medicine practitioners and health enthusiasts worldwide.
Bhutanese Cordyceps is classified into different grades based on its size, shape, and quality. The highest quality grade is known as Bhutanese Gold, which is long and slender, with a bright golden color. The next grade is Bhutanese Silver, which is slightly smaller and less golden in color. The lowest grade is Bhutanese Bronze, which is small and dark in color.
The collection of Bhutanese Cordyceps is a labor-intensive process that involves climbing to high altitudes in the Himalayas, often in treacherous weather conditions. The collection season typically begins in late May and continues through early June. During this time, collectors set out into the mountains in search of the fungus.
Once the Cordyceps are collected, they are brought down from the mountains and sold at auction houses in Bhutan. The Bhutan Agriculture and Food Regulatory Authority (BAFRA) oversees the auction process and ensures that the Cordyceps are properly graded and priced.
The price of Bhutanese Cordyceps varies depending on the grade and quality. Bhutanese Gold is the most expensive, with prices ranging from USD 20,000 to USD 100,000 per kilogram. Bhutanese Silver is slightly less expensive, with prices ranging from USD 15,000 to USD 60,000 per kilogram. Bhutanese Bronze is the least expensive, with prices ranging from USD 2,000 to USD 10,000 per kilogram.
Bhutanese Cordyceps has been used in traditional medicine for centuries and is believed to have a wide range of health benefits. It is said to boost the immune system, improve stamina and energy, and enhance overall well-being. Some studies have also suggested that Cordyceps may have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties.
Bhutanese Cordyceps has become a valuable source of income for many Bhutanese families, particularly those living in the remote high-altitude regions where the fungus grows. The collection and sale of Cordyceps have provided a significant economic boost to these communities, helping to support their livelihoods and preserve their traditional way of life.
