Himalayan Sacred Herbs
The mountains of Nepal are one of the world's most potent pharmacies. These are the herbs that grow in the Himalayas and have sustained human health and spiritual practice for millennia.
Ashwagandha
अश्वगन्धाThe 'strength of a horse' — India's most revered adaptogenic root. Used in Ayurveda for 3,000 years to restore vitality and calm the nervous system.
✦ On Our Retreats
We include Ashwagandha in morning teas on all our Nepal retreats to support physical stamina at high altitude.
Brahmi
ब्राह्मीNamed after Brahma (the creator), Brahmi is considered the primary herb for the mind in Ayurveda. It opens the crown chakra and supports meditative states.
✦ On Our Retreats
Used as a brain tonic tea in our morning routine, particularly before meditation sessions.
Tulsi (Holy Basil)
तुलसीThe sacred queen of herbs — worshipped as a goddess in Hindu households. Tulsi is planted at the entrance of most Nepali homes and temples. Its mere presence is considered purifying.
✦ On Our Retreats
Fresh Tulsi tea is served every morning. Participants are shown how to tend and harvest it respectfully.
Shilajit
शिलाजितLiterally 'destroyer of weakness' — this resinous substance that seeps from Himalayan rock faces at high altitude is one of Ayurveda's most powerful tonics. Formed over thousands of years.
✦ On Our Retreats
Pure Himalayan Shilajit is offered on our high-altitude retreats to help the body adapt and thrive.
Guduchi (Giloy)
गुडूचीCalled 'Amrita' (nectar of immortality) in Sanskrit. Guduchi grows wild in Nepal's mid-hills and is considered one of the most important rejuvenating plants in Ayurveda.
✦ On Our Retreats
Fresh Guduchi decoction is prepared and offered to retreat participants showing signs of fatigue or illness.
Neem
निम्बThe universal purifier — known as 'the village pharmacy' in India and Nepal. Every part of the Neem tree has medicinal value. Its extreme bitterness signals its powerful purifying nature.
✦ On Our Retreats
Used in Panchakarma (Ayurvedic purification) practices offered as optional additions to long retreats.
Shatavari
शतावरीMeaning 'she who has a hundred husbands' — Shatavari is Ayurveda's primary herb for the feminine system and the moon principle. Deeply nourishing and cooling.
✦ On Our Retreats
Particularly beneficial for women on retreat. Offered as an evening tonic in a warm milk preparation.
Amalaki (Amla)
आमलकीThe Indian Gooseberry — one of the highest known natural sources of Vitamin C. One of three ingredients in Triphala (the most widely used Ayurvedic formula). Sacred to Vishnu.
✦ On Our Retreats
Fresh Amla (in season) or Amla powder is given daily with warm water as a morning detox ritual.
Experience Ayurvedic Herbs in Nepal
On our retreats you don't just read about these herbs — you visit local farmers, walk through herb gardens, and learn to prepare traditional formulas under expert guidance.
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