In recent news, dedicated scientists at the CSIR-Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology (IHBT), situated in Palampur, are undertaking the significant task of cultivating heeng (asafoetida) within the influential stretch of the Indian Himalayas. The IHBT exclusively stands out as the single laboratory of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) nestled in the scenic landscapes of Himachal Pradesh.
About Heeng
Heeng presents itself as a perennial herbaceous plant, belonging to the umbelliferae family. It is well known for its oleo gum resin derived organically from its deep-seated thick roots and rhizome. Interestingly, this plant nurtures most of its nutrients within these flesh-filled roots. Native to Afghanistan and Iran, it is these regions that stand tall as the key global providers of this profound plant species. It’s fame, however, stretches worldwide, with the Indian subcontinent being particularly fond of using it extensively in its diverse array of cuisines.
The Preferred Climatic Conditions
The plant gloriously thrives in cold, arid desert climates. Impeccably resilient, this herb can withstand temperatures fluctuating between 35 to 40 degrees during peak summers, while also possessing the ability to survive temperatures dropping up to a chilling negative 4 degrees in harsh winters. The conducive environment for flourishing heeng cultivation includes areas characterized by sandy soil, sparse moisture, and a limited annual rainfall not exceeding 200mm. In times of extreme weather situations, the plant optimizes its survival rate by smartly going dormant.
Medicinal Value of Heeng
Blessed with beneficial medicinal properties, Heeng aids in providing relief from a variety of ailments including digestive issues, spasmodic and stomach disorders as well as asthma and bronchitis. Additionally, it is known to help with excessive or painful bleeding during menstruation and premature labour.
India’s Heeng Cultivation Project
Traditionally, Heeng cultivation has not been native to India. The country imports a whopping 1200 tonnes of raw heeng, costing around INR 600 crore annually from Iran, Afghanistan, and Uzbekistan. However, in 2017, the pioneering IHBT stepped forth with an innovative experimental project idea of cultivating heeng within the expanse of the Indian Himalayas. In June 2020, the IHBT constructed a monumental Memorandum of Understanding with the agriculture ministry of Himachal Pradesh for joint cultivation of heeng. Marking this endeavour, the ministry has selected four potential cultivation locations in the Lahul-Spiti valley, and seven farmers have been handed over heeng seeds. However, the journey is not without its challenges. Assimilating the dormant nature of heeng seeds and their low germination rate of a mere 1% presents a significant obstacle to scientists partaking in this unique venture.