Ophiocordyceps sinensis

Ophiocordyceps sinensis (scientific name: Ophiocordyceps sinensis) is an insectivorous fungus native to Tibet, belonging to the family Ophiocordycepsceae. In its native habitat, it grows naturally in alpine meadows. The fungus is laid on insect eggs and grows by absorbing the body fluids of the larvae and eating through the body. After the larvae die in winter, the mycelium grows like a plant in summer, hence the name. It is used in Chinese herbal medicine, but because it contains toxic substances such as arsenic, it must be approved by the regulatory authorities before it can be sold as a health food.

Common name: Ophiocordyceps sinensis, Scientific name: Ophiocordyceps sinensis, Synonyms:Cordyceps sinensis, Origin: Tibet, China, Length: 3 to 5 cm, Diameter: 0.3 to 0.8 cm Body color: yellowish brown.