Morchella esculenta: a herbal boon to pharmacology

Morchella esculenta is a genus of edible mushrooms also known as Guchi, morel, common morel, true morel, morel mushroom, yellow morel, sponge morel, etc. It is one of the most important and economically beneficial wild species of mushroom. It naturally grows in hilly altitude with cold environment. It is found at a height of 2500-3500 m. in forest habitat.It is commonly found as a mycorrhizal or saprobic relationship with hardwood and coniferous trees. Its growing season is from March to July. Its native place is Kullu District of Himachal Pradesh (western Himalaya). It contains carbohydrates, proteins, fibres, all important vitamins, minerals and aromatic compounds. Due to its unique flavour, taste and texture it is used in different recipes all over the world. It contains a wide range of pharmacological properties which includes antioxidant, antitumor, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, it also acts as an immune-stimulant due to the presence of various active constituents. It may be used as purgative, laxative, body tonic, emollient and also used for stomach problems, heal the wound and for general weakness. It can be poisonous if eaten raw and produces so many adverse reactions if not used properly. Due to its high price it plays a very important role in the economy of country. This paper gives an overview on the introduction, function and medicinal terms of Morchella esculenta and a short detail on its similar species.