Essential oil from Ilam now exported to France

MANGALBARE, ILAM: Herbal extract essential oils produced in Ilam district are now being exported abroad. The essential oil manufacturing plant, operated by Nitya Raj Dahal in Mai Jogmai Rural Municipality, has started exporting its products overseas.

Established 13 years ago, the factory began exporting herbs and essential oils last year, with France being the main destination. "Our factory produces essential oils from mugwort, black juniper, mint, and dhasingare (wintergreen), along with other locally-grown herbs. Currently, only extracts from mugwort, cypress, and mint are exported overseas," said Dahal.

The plant is preparing to extract essential oils from geranium, wild marigold, black mint, rosemary, and other plants soon. "Foreign customers have begun to appreciate Nepali natural herbal products, and we have started producing them to meet their demand," added Dahal.

As an Osho follower, Dahal mentioned that foreigners who visit for meditation often purchase his products and take them home. "Initially, foreigners were not very interested in our products; they began to appreciate them after learning about their value. We are encouraged by the recent increase in sales," Dahal shared.

The essential oil extracted from black juniper is sold for Rs 2,500 per kilogramme, mugwort for Rs 6,000 per kilogramme, and mint and wintergreen for Rs 7,000 per kilogramme each.

Dahal has been cultivating various herbs on 35 ropanis of land and also sources herbs from local farmers. Local resident Keshav Dahal noted that commercial production has been achieved at the local level by utilising vacant land in the village.

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