For more than 500 years, this exotic specimen has been coveted in the Asiatic market due to its aphrodisiac and medicinal properties.

"Ophiocordyceps sinensis [its scientific name] is an important nourishing tonic," explains Jit Narajan Sah, assistant professor at the Institute of Forestry of Tribhuvan University.

"It regulates the normal functioning of various part of the body and strengthens the immune and circulatory system.

"It has traditionally been used for impotence, backache and to increase sperm and blood production."