Srinagar: For centuries Soi (Nettle) has been considered the biggest enemy by farmers in Kashmir. Such is the negativity towards this weed, that it has been used as a substitute for strict punishment due to its stinging property.
Now Sher-i-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences Kashmir (SKUAST-K) has launched a drive to promote and educate farmers about the uses of this herb against various diseases.
SKUAST- K is currently promoting it as a source of tea in Kashmir and has already started demonstrating the process of its preparations to the farmers.
“During Kisan mela, we sold 5000 sachets to the people. It can be used as the best herbal tea since this herb has a huge medicinal value. Because of its stinging property due to the presence of sharp hair and formic acid, this herb has a huge negativity associated and people don’t prefer to grow it,” said Dr. Sheikh Bilal Ahmad, Regional Director, Regional Cum Facilitation Centre, National Medicinal Plant Board SKUAST-K.
He said nettle leaves and their roots contain various mineral and vitamins, which boosts immunity and prevent various diseases in humans.
“In Europe, a nettle leaf tea is very much famous. If we talk about its medicinal rating, nettle has scored 10 out of 10. Soi is edible. It contains vitamin A, K, and anti-oxidants in huge proportion,” Ahmad said.
He said nettle leaf tea can act against diseases including cardiac, ortho, and inflammation. “Nettle is being used as a health tonic in many countries. It successfully treats inflammation, cardiac ailments, and arthritis. This herb is useful to treat Urinary Tract Infections, lowering blood pressure, and is a natural muscle relaxant,” Ahmad said.
He said the SKUAST-K throughout its programs will raise awareness regarding the herb to promote it on commercial lines.
“Given that this herb is found in abundance in Kashmir, it can prove to be an option of livelihood for the farmers. We are now planning to promote this herb in upcoming herbal festivals as well. We will demonstrate to the farmers about the processing of this herb,” Ahmad said.
He said the herbal extracts of nettle can be done at home by the farmers without spending enough on its processing.
