Bodoland University develops fungal powder to boost immunity

Bodoland University develops fungal powder to boost immunity

Part of: GS-Prelims and GS-III – Biotechnology

In News:

• Bodoland University has said that it has developed a fungal powder to help people boost their immunity to disease.

• The powder is from a parasitic but rare “super mushroom” called Cordyceps militaris.

• A potent pinch of C. militaris was powdered through lyophilisation or freeze-drying at – 80°C. 

Important value additions 

Cordyceps

• The earth has more than 400 species of Cordyceps. 
• It is a fungus parasitic on insects as well as other fungi. 
• It is often referred to as a super mushroom.
• It is known for its anti-ageing, anti-viral, energy and immunity-boosting effect.
• Cordyceps militaris is spread throughout the northern hemisphere. 

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