What is Solo, that PM Narendra Modi called modern-day 'Sanjeevani': 4 ways to include it in daily meals

We often talk about herbs and medicinal plants like Ashwagandha, Brahmi, Aloe Vera, Basil and more. But did you know that the world of magical Indian herbs is beyond our imagination. Regions like Ladakh are enriched with many such herbs and medicinal plants that people still don't know about. Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his address on Jammu and Kashmir in 2019 drew the attention to on such herbs and even called it as modern day 'sanjeevani'. Scroll down to read more about it.

In his address to the nation, PM Modi referred to Ladakh's 'solo' herb also known as 'Rhodiola', which he said could work as modern day 'sanjeevani' for security personnel deployed in snow-clad mountains. "Experts say the plant is a sanjeevani for people living in high altitudes and security personnel deployed in snow clad areas. It maintains the body's immune system in areas with low oxygen .... which Indian does not want that it should be sold world over... I have named only one herb. Such herbs are spread all over Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh," he said. "I request the industrialists, exporters and those associated with food processing to come forward to take the local products across the globe," he added.

The Defence Institute of High Altitude Research (DIHAR) director O P Chaurasiaya once told PTI, ""In Ladakh, Solo is found near high passes such as Khardungla and Changla -- at a height of 16,000-18,000 feet. It has anti-fatigue and radio-protecting abilities. It can also restore memory and cure certain types of cancer. These properties make it a wonder plant." He also added, "Its leaves are edible and the locals eat it with curd. The dish is called 'Tantur'." For the unversed, DIHAR is the world's highest agro-animal research laboratory, has been conducting research on the medicinal plant for decades.

According to experts, this rare herb is known for boosting energy levels, reducing fatigue, supporting immunity, improving stamina, and helping the body cope with stress and high-altitude conditions. According to a study, the extracts of Rhodiola is used as a dietary supplement in healthy populations, including athletes, to non-specifically enhance the natural resistance of the body to both physical and behavior stresses for fighting fatigue and depression. It is also found that it has anti-aging, anti-inflammation, immunostimulating, DNA repair and anti-cancer effects, which are beneficial for human beings.

One of the easiest ways is to make a tea. All you need to do is brew a few leaves of the herb in hot water and top it with some lemon juice and honey for taste.

If you are smoothie and shake person, you can add a small portion of dried leaves powder into your shakes or smoothies to gain benefits.

Traditionally, the leaves are eaten with curd as a raita and is called Tantur in ladakh. One can also add the tender leaves into curries for added benefits.

After seeking proper medical advice, one can also add them in daily diet as a supplement to gain maximum benefits.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article—is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.