Himachal Pradesh keeps the tradition ticking

Shimla, July 12 (ANI): Villagers here have kept alive the ancient occupation of extracting Shilajit, an endangered variety of herb found in the Himalayas.

Known for its medicinal properties, the herb is used for blood sugar stabilization, libido, anti-aging, healing wounds, enhancing the functioning of the brain among a host of other infirmities.

Interacting with mediapersons, Leelachand Premi, a businessman engaged in the extraction of Shilajit, said they extract this herb by risking their lives as it is found on the steep mountains of the Himalayas.

"I earn my livelihood by developing medicines from Shilajit. This herb is found rarely on the rocky mountains. I take along a team of strong and fearless men to extract Shilajit," said Premi, who is carrying forward his ancestral vocation.

State government provides licenses to people to extract the herb and make medicines.

Talking to mediapersons, Vivek, a local youth, explained the curative properties of the herb.

"This is found in mountains and is used as a medicine. This is used if anyone gets hurt or if a person wants to make his body strong or if one wants to ensure that their blood circulation remains normal," Vivek said.

Shilajit is one of the most significant ingredients used in most of the Ayurvedic medicines. (ANI)