Nepal
Spikenard

Fragrant plants: Spikenard
Growing region: Nepal
Cultivation partner since: 2023

In the heart of the Himalayas, at an impressive altitude of 3,700 to 5,000 meters, one of the most valuable plants in Nepalese medicine thrives: spikenard (Nardostychys grandiflora), also known as jatamansi. The responsible and sustainable harvesting of this organically certified treasure is essential to protect the populations of this endangered plant.

 The sustainable harvest of spikenard

The spikenard harvest takes place annually between mid-October and mid-November, when the plant's flowers and leaves have died off, signaling matured underground stems (rhizomes), and hides in the meadows and rocky foothills of the Himalayan region. Only when the leaves turn yellow and fall to the ground does the careful manual collection of the rhizomes begin. Using simple spades, the collectors—men and women alike—dig the fragrant roots from the alpine meadows, rocks, and open coniferous forests.

 Spikenard processed traditionally

After harvesting, a multi-stage process begins: The fresh rhizomes are cleaned and dried directly at the collection points. They are then transported to the villages, where the roots are dried again in the sun, cleaned, and packed in bags. This complex, traditional processing ensures that the quality of the raw material is preserved.

Interestingly, the distillation of the precious spikenard oil is reserved exclusively for men. The distillation process itself takes 24 to 28 hours and is carried out directly without further drying. A boiler is heated with firewood to generate the necessary steam to extract the essential oil from the rhizomes.

 Sustainability and social responsibility

The protection of spikenard requires a holistic approach: In addition to sustainable wild collection, the project works with local NGOs to develop economic diversification programs for the collecting community – an important step to secure people's livelihoods in the long term, alongside the protection of spikenard stocks.

Spikenard – a fragrance with history and effect

Even in ancient times, the spikenard rhizome was coveted and exported as far afield as the Mediterranean. It is mentioned in the Bible when Mary of Bethany anointed Jesus with precious spikenard oil. The scent of the essential oil is earthy, woody, spicy, and sweet – with hints of valerian and patchouli. Spikenard is considered a balm for the soul, helping with inner tension, irritability, and sleep problems. It is used in psychiatric aromatherapy, meditation, and skin care.

A precious treasure that demands respect

Given the endangered status of spikenard, it is all the more important to obtain essential spikenard oil only from certified, sustainable sources and to use it mindfully.