Retrospect on the research of the cultivation of Gastrodia elate Bl, a rare traditional Chinese medicine

Purpose To review the research on the cultivation of Gastrodia elata BI, a rare traditional Chinese medicine. Data sources The data come from our previous research and published review articles on G. elata cultivation. Study selection After reviewing the research results on G. elata from 1960 to 1995, we selected the core research on G. elata and a complete cultivati on technique of rare traditional Chinese medicine G. elate. Data extraction Some important data were arranged in different tables, and new cultivation methods were reviewed. Results A. mellea has been found to have inhibiting effects on G. elata see d germination. The seeds are able to sprout only when a nutritional relatio nship exists between G. elata and a fungus of the same genus as M. osmundic ola. The sprouted tubers have to set up a symbiotic relationship with A. me llea during their clone propagation period so as to grow normally. Conclusions G, elate has to symbiosize with M. osmundicola and A. mellea so as to complete its life cycle from seed to seed. These findings have revea led the secret of the life cycle of G. elata that has been puzzling biologi cal circles for years.