'Himalayan Viagra' under threat from climate change

WASHINGTON - A prized caterpillar fungus that is more valuable than gold and is nicknamed "Himalayan Viagra" in Asia, where it is seen as a wonder drug, is becoming harder to find due to climate change, researchers said on Monday.

The elusive fungus, dongchongxiacao, is known formally as Ophiocordyceps sinensis.

Although it has no scientifically proven benefits, people who boil dongchongxiacao in water to make tea or add it to soups and stews believe it cures everything from impotence to cancer.