Herbs Discontinued due to Sustainability Challenges
Currently there are many Ayurvedic herbs that face serious threats to their long term survival. The majority of Ayurvedic herbs are harvested in the wild. Rapid growth in the human population coupled with rising interest in the benefits of natural medicines has resulted in a higher demand for herbs. Over harvesting, loss of natural habitat and changes in the global climate has put many herbs at risk. Banyan Botanicals is actively working to support sustainable farming projects that reduce the burden on these threatened species.
However there are several herbs where despite efforts, there is currently not a sustainable solution. Although the following herbs continue to be available elsewhere, we feel that offering them is no longer consistent with our mission of providing sustainably grown and fairly traded products.
- Jatamansi (Jatamansi nardostacys, Nardostachys grandiflora, Valeriana jatamansi)
- Kutki (Picrorhiza kurroa)
- Red Sandalwood (Pterocarpus santilinus)
- Sandalwood (Santalum album)
- Tagar (Valeriana wallichi)
It is our wish that you, are valued customer, will support our decision to help protect these species as sacred and precious resources. Efforts are ongoing to find long term solutions to the challenges these plants face. One day we hope to reintroduce these herbs in a way that ensures that future generations will also enjoy their healing benefits.
See below for links to more information:
In recognition of the growing threat caused by over-harvesting, both Kutki and Jatamansi are now listed under appendix II of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). CITES is an international agreement between governments, whose aim is to ensure that international trade in specimens of wild animals and plants does not threaten their survival. Appendix II of CITES includes “species not necessarily threatened with extinction, but in which trade must be controlled in order to avoid utilization incompatible with their survival”.
Ben Heron, of UK based Pukka Herbs, has written an excellent article on the current status of Kutki and Jatmansi production in the Western Himalaya. To read his article click here. Banyan Botanicals is supporting Pukka’s efforts to help find sustainable solutions for growing kutki, jatamansi and tagar.
Red Sandalwood also faces threats to its survival due to over harvesting and is listed in CITES Appendix II.
Sandalwood is listed on The World Conservation Union’s (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species. Exploitation of the wood for fine furniture, carving and oil are threatening the species. Export of
