Asia's largest Sal forest (Shorea Robusta), Saranda, located in the West Singhbhum district of Jharkhand is known for its rare medicinal herbs. The 820 sq km forest was once the victim of Maoist and Naxal activities.
During the corona crisis, when we are trying everything possible to build a robust immunity till the COVID-19 vaccine is found, West Singhbhum Administration and Saranda Forest Division along with the local forest committees have successfully prepared a drink from the high-value medicinal herbs found in Saranda which will help in boosting the immunity.
Tweet Of Divisional Forest Officer, Saranda (Territorial)
The Herbal Immunity Booster Drink is prepared using Tulsi Leaves, Terminalia, Arjun Bark, Ginger, Guava Leaves, Pipal Leaves, Giloy, Krishna Marich, and Lemon Leaves found in Saranda, also, Cinnamon, Cloves, Cardamom, Jaggery, Black Pepper, etc bought from the local market.
The drink has been prepared by the Van Samities (Local Forest Committees) according to the guidelines provided by the Ministry of AYUSH (The Ministry of Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homoeopathy). The good news is the Ministry of AYUSH has given a nod and has endorsed the Immunity Booster Drink for the citizens in their fight against corona.
The drink will soon be available in medical shops and quarantine centers. Meanwhile, the administration is providing training to the local communities regarding branding, marketing, and promoting the product in different healthcare centers.
We hope the immunity booster becomes a success so that it provides the forest community with a regular source of income.