Seabuckthorn Technologies for Development of Value Chain and Environmental Conservation in Himalayas

Abstract

Seabuckthorn (Hippophae spp.), an important high value medicinal plant found in cold areas of Indian Himalayan Region (IHR). In India, it is reported in Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, cold regions of Leh and Ladakh, Kinuar district of Himachal Pradesh, Sikkim and in Dibang valley in Arunachal Pradesh.

Seabuckthorn considered as wonder berry from the Himalayas is known as nature’s most balanced fruit is a highly versatile high-altitude species having a wide range of ecological, medicinal, and economic uses. This hardy species can grow well in the extreme alpine and subalpine environments of the Himalayas, and have the tendency to withstanding at −40°C temperatures, and plays a vital role in nitrogen fixation and soil erosion control through its deep fibrous roots.