Nature
Walk The healing herbs of Corbett
The forests are full
of riches. Living close to the land, and depending on it for sustenance, the
Kumaoni villagers know how to tap the precious resources of this vanishing
world.
The Nature Walk, which is on the agenda of all guests of Corbett Hideaway
Resort, is a guided tour by naturalists, who unveil for you the wonders of
the earth. You walk along the banks of the river Kosi, and along simple
paths, and the healing herbs are there, all over!
A few
examples: Mallotus Phllippensis or Rohini is a leafy herb found in
the forest which is a delicacy in the diets of elephants! The leaves have a
cooling quality and temper down male tuskers when they are in a mast
condition. It is also useful as a hookworm remedy. The red powder is used as
'sindhoor' by women. Acacia catechu or katha is used in 'paan'. A little
known fact is that it is good for halitosis or infection in the tongue and
it is also anti-diarrhoeal. Acgle Marmelos or Bel is a hard shelled fruit
which grows quite wild. Its beneficial properties for the digestive system
have long been known. It is consumed in the form of jams, jellies and syrups
for cooling the system. The leaves have religious value and are offered to
Lord Shiva.
Embelica Officinalis or Amla is a tart fruit which
is the richest source of vitamin C available in natural form. It has many
medicinal uses, particularly for the stomach. The oil is good for the hair.
Moringa Oliefera or Sanjana. This tree is a real friend! The
drumsticks are eaten as vegetables. Bacteria in its roots purify the water
table. The extract helps in treating snake bites. Its leaves are boiled for
hot therapies in injuries.
