Kachnar: The Blossoming Treasure of Junga’s Forests
The forests of Junga in Shimla are currently adorned with the vibrant blooms of Kachnar trees, adding a touch of natural beauty to the region. Beyond their visual appeal, Kachnar flowers are a culinary delight and a powerhouse of medicinal properties. In Ayurveda, Kachnar is revered for its ability to treat various ailments.
These trees grow naturally in the wild, and their petals and flowers, which bloom in the spring, are commonly used in rural areas to prepare vegetables. Free from toxic elements and rich in organic properties, Kachnar, locally known as Karyalti, is a staple in traditional dishes like vegetables, raita, and even pickles.
Ayurveda expert Dr. Vishwabandhu Joshi highlights the medicinal benefits of Kachnar. He explains that Kachnar bark is particularly effective in dissolving lumps in the body and is used to treat blood disorders and skin conditions such as itching, eczema, and boils.
Former village leaders Atar Singh Thakur and Pritam Thakur share that the village is currently experiencing a bounty of wild vegetables, including Kachnar, Kathi buds, Ramban’s Gova, Fegda, soft leaves of Khadki, and Chhuchh from the ditches. They note that villagers prefer these wild vegetables over market produce due to concerns about contamination. Although the younger generation may not favor wild vegetables, their consumption is known to prevent many diseases.
