The trek in the Nepalese land of the great Himalayas especially the Everest area is not just about climbing the peak or simply admiring the scenic beauty. It is also the chance to visit a real natural pharmacy located in the heart of the Himalayas.
As you venture into Nepal’s alpine terrains, meadows, and rocky grounds, you’ll encounter a diverse array of medicinal plants that locals have used medicinally for generations. These plants, nurtured in unpolluted air and naturally enriched soils, not only serve as remedies but also stand as proud symbols of Nepal’s natural heritage.
In this post of our travel blog dedicated to traveling in Nepal, we will accompany you on a journey through the top five medicinal plants that you can stumble upon during your trip to the Everest region.
From the ‘Viagra of the Himalayas’ to the calming Himalayan Poppy the plants uncovered tell stories of survival and tranquility. So put on your hiking shoes and let me take you through the various aspects of Nature that make trekking in Nepal a journey of discovery and therapy.
1. Yarsagumba- The Himalayan Energy Booster
While walking through the highlands of the Everest region above the height of 3000-5000 meters one should pay attention to the Yarsagumba, a local medicine, also known as ‘Himalayan Viagra’. This is a strange parasitic fungus that grows on the caterpillar larvae and these conditions of cold, moist high altitudes are perfect for its growth.
Yarsagumba has been in use by the Sherpa people for generations, and now, this organism has received its world’s attention due to its magnificent properties. It is famous mainly as an aphrodisiac, and a must-have for hikers who need a boost of energy when they face steep terrains during hiking.
It also strengthens the immune system, proving especially beneficial for adapting to altitude. Some trekkers even use it as an expectorant for chronic bronchitis and asthma which are some of the more prevalent conditions on high altitude treks.
2. Nettle (Urtica Dioica)- The Versatile Healer
While trekking through the lower regions starting from 1,500-3, 000m in the Everest region you are most likely to sight Nettle. In many regions, this plant is relatively ignored as a simple weed, but it is believed that all components of Lamium album contain valuable healing properties.
Nettle has long served as an ingredient in Nepalese folk recipes and as a remedy for various ailments. It is regarded for its efficiency in providing comfort for the discomfort brought by inflammation and arthritis pain. It has the potential to be a natural remedy for trekkers who have joint pains due to the effect of walking for long distances and time.
They also have health benefits, especially for the kidneys and purifying of blood perfect for body detoxification after hiking. Most of the trekkers sip a cup of Nettle tea at the end of the day when they are retiring to bed to gear down Hay fever. It is also believed to provide a cure for allergies, which can be important given the type of pollen you may encounter on your hike.
3. Rhododendron- The Vibrant Healer
During a climb through the temperate and subalpine districts of the Everest area between 1,500m to 3,600m alt, one cannot help but be mesmerized by the flowers, especially Rhododendron which is the National flower of Nepal. Nevertheless, these flowers are not only gorgeous to look at but they also have worm-killer properties as well.
Traditionally, people have used the flowers and leaves of the Rhododendron plant to treat stomach problems and inflammation. For trekkers, this can be convenient as it reduces the risk of upset stomachs caused by changes in diet at higher altitudes. The plant also contains antioxidants that protect cells from the increased oxidative stress linked to high-altitude journeys.
Moreover, it supports respiratory and cardiovascular health, which are crucial concerns for hikers at high altitudes. While you admire these flowers in the mountains, remember they aren’t just for looks, they showcase nature’s healing power.
However, it’s important to note that some Rhododendron species contain toxins. Ingesting these toxins in large amounts can have serious effects, especially on the heart and stomach. Therefore, it’s best to rely on expert advice regarding any potential medicinal use of these flowers, especially for children and pregnant women.
4. Swertia (Swertia Chirayita)- The Bitter Healer
When you are on your trek and moving through the temperate zones of the Everest region which is between 1,200 and 3,000 meters, you may encounter Swertia known as Chirayita. This plant which has a bitter taste is widely used in Ayurvedic medicine and Tibetan medicine among other systems of medicine.
To the adventurers, Swertia holds potential health benefits especially for the liver and digestive system since they can be very much challenged during treks. It can also reduce fever, which can be handy if you encounter flu-like symptoms while on a trail.
Some trekkers say that it is good for the control of blood sugar level and this is undoubtedly important in maintaining a steady output of energy required in a trek. Although they are bitter, many people are willing to tolerate the taste in the hope of attaining these benefits to their health. Of course, it is advisable to seek advice from a doctor before integrating any new herbal remedy into your diet if you have certain specific conditions affecting the digestive system or if you are a pregnant woman.
5. Himalayan Poppy (Meconopsis Grandis)- The Blue Beauty
The Himalayan Poppy, known for its blue flowers, can be spotted in settings ranging from 1,500 meters to 2,500 meters. It can also be found from 3,000 to 4,500 meters during the journey. This gorgeous plant is on every photographer’s wish list, and also has many healing qualities.
As a natural pain reliever and calming agent which is the culinary property of the plant, the Himalayan Poppy could well be of help to trekkers on the trail after a long climbing day. Its great relaxing effect is known to benefit hikers by relieving anxiety experienced at high altitudes.
Not only that, the pretty flower is studied to be anti-inflammatory and an aid for gastrointestinal issues. This helps trekkers combat muscle pain, altitude-related issues, and dietary changes. These natural aids can help reduce discomfort, support recovery, and maintain energy levels during challenging hikes.
Conclusion
This trekking in the greater Himalayan nation particularly in the Everest region. It is not only about the spectacular vistas and thrilling physical trials. Nature’s medicine chest equally engages in the grand relay. These exported medicinal herbs, including Yarsagumba, known as a source of energy, and the Himalayan Poppy. It acts as a cooling agent for the mind, truly representing the biological diversity and wisdom of the Himalayan people.
While hiking in these beautiful areas, take a moment to appreciate these miraculous healers of the wilderness. They aren’t just background scenery in movies filmed here. They are living examples of how different species thrive together in this ecosystem.
So, as you plan your trek with Trek Me Nepal, keep an eye out for these amazing medicinal plants. They are just one of the factors. Trekking in the Everest region is not only a journey in the physical sense. But also a holistic experience that can nourish body, mind, and spirit.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What medicinal plants might I encounter during my Everest region trek, and at what altitudes?
– During your trek, you may encounter Yarsagumba (3,000-5,000 meters), Nettle (1,500-3,000 meters), Rhododendron (1,500-3,600 meters), Swertia (1,200-3,000 meters) and Himalayan Poppy (3,000-4,500 meters).
2. How can Yarsagumba benefit me as a trekker?
3. Are there any plants that can help with common trekking ailments like joint pain or digestive issues?
Yes, several plants may offer relief:
- Nettle can help alleviate joint pain from long hikes.
- Rhododendron eases gastrointestinal issues and inflammation.
4. Can any local plants help me adjust to the high-altitude environment?
While not substitutes for proper adaptation:
- Yarsagumba helps with respiratory issues common at high altitudes.
- Rhododendron is rich in antioxidants, potentially protecting cells from increased free radical damage at high altitudes.
- Swertia might help regulate blood sugar levels, beneficial for maintaining consistent energy during long hikes.
5. Is it safe to use these medicinal plants during my trek?
While these plants have traditional uses, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before using any for medicinal purposes. Some considerations:
- Nettle is generally safe, but those with kidney issues should consult a doctor.
- Rhododendron species can be toxic if consumed in large quantities.
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