Annapurna Aroma

Annapurna Aroma It is a company mainly engaged in cultivation and contract farming, distilling and processing of aromatic plants.

We produce essential oil and supply from Nepal to worldwide..

Black cardamom (Amomum subulatum), also known as Nepalese or large cardamom, is one of Nepal’s most prized aromatic spic...
15/12/2025

Black cardamom (Amomum subulatum), also known as Nepalese or large cardamom, is one of Nepal’s most prized aromatic spices and a rich source of essential oils. High in cineole (eucalyptol), it is traditionally valued for supporting respiratory health, helping relieve coughs, congestion, and breathing discomfort.

Native to Nepal’s eastern foothills and temperate regions (600–1,800 m), black cardamom is known for its distinctive smoky aroma, developed through traditional open-fire drying. Beyond its wellness uses, it remains a key ingredient in curries, spice blends, and even coffee.

Harvested from September to November, it reflects Nepal’s rich aromatic heritage and time-honored cultivation practices. 🌿

The beauty of Nepal never ceases to amaze us. No matter which corner of the country you visit, the landscape has its own...
12/12/2025

The beauty of Nepal never ceases to amaze us. No matter which corner of the country you visit, the landscape has its own way of stopping you in your tracks. Terraced fields shaped by generations of hard work, small mountain settlements with their bright rooftops, and dense forests that guard the hillsides all come together to form scenes that feel almost unreal.

This kind of landscape isn’t just visually stunning, it reflects the resilience, history, and culture of the communities who live here. Every terrace holds a story of adaptation, every footpath shows connection, and every green ridge reminds us how deeply nature and people are intertwined in Nepal.

Moments like these make it clear why protecting our environment and supporting rural livelihoods matters so much. Nepal’s natural beauty is not just something to admire; it’s something to value, sustain, and pass on to future generations. 🌿

10/12/2025

In the Himalayan regions, harvest sites are often several hours away from the nearest road, accessible only by footpaths that wind through steep slopes and dense forests. Moving large volumes of freshly collected plant material through these conditions is not just difficult; it can compromise the integrity of the raw material long before it reaches a traditional distillation facility.

This is why distillation units are deliberately built as close to the harvesting areas as possible. Establishing these field-based distillation setups allows us to process the biomass immediately, often within minutes or hours of collection. This rapid transition from harvest to distillation is essential for protecting the natural chemistry of the plants. Many Himalayan botanicals lose their potency quickly once cut, so onsite distillation helps preserve volatile compounds, maintain purity, and achieve the highest possible yield.

There is also a strong sustainability component to this model. Transporting unprocessed biomass over long distances requires significant labor, fuel, and time. By distilling at the source, we drastically reduce the environmental and financial costs that come with moving bulky raw material. Instead of carrying hundreds of kilograms of leaves or needles, communities transport only the final distilled oil and hydrosol, both of which are lighter, more stable, and more efficient to move.

Just as important is the impact on local livelihoods. These onsite distillation units create work opportunities directly within remote villages, allowing collectors and operators to contribute to the value chain without needing to migrate to urban areas. Their knowledge of the forests, the plants, and the seasonal rhythms is what keeps the entire system grounded and authentic.

𝑋𝑎𝑛𝑡ℎ𝑜𝑥𝑦𝑙𝑢𝑚 𝑎𝑟𝑚𝑎𝑡𝑢𝑚, widely known as Timur, is one of Nepal’s most defining aromatic species. This hardy shrub grows up ...
08/12/2025

𝑋𝑎𝑛𝑡ℎ𝑜𝑥𝑦𝑙𝑢𝑚 𝑎𝑟𝑚𝑎𝑡𝑢𝑚, widely known as Timur, is one of Nepal’s most defining aromatic species. This hardy shrub grows up to 3 meters and flourishes between 1100-2500 meters in the Himalayan mid-hills, where the unique climate and soil conditions shape its strong citrusy-spicy character. We source our Timur from the mid-western and western hilly regions, working directly with local collectors who have been harvesting this plant for generations.

The berries are the heart of this plant. They’re harvested from August to November when their essential oil content is at its peak. The image here shows the incredibly meticulous sorting process: women farmers handpick and separate the berries using traditional bamboo trays, ensuring that only mature, clean, and uniform seeds move forward for drying and distillation. No machines, no shortcuts, just skilled hands and community knowledge.

Once steam-distilled, Timur essential oil appears as a pale-yellow, fluid liquid with a refreshing, spicy, and pleasantly sharp aroma.

Its uses are as diverse as its scent profile:

• Aromatherapy & wellness: Calming, nerve-soothing, and excellent for meditation support.

• Traditional medicine: Known for anti-infectious and sedative properties; historically used for arthritis, cholera, and toothaches.

• Flavor & fragrance industry: Adds a bright tingle to confectionery, soft drinks, and functional fragrances.

• Perfumery: A fresh, lively middle note that lifts blends with its clean, citrus-peppery edge.

At Annapurna Aroma, we continue to prioritize sustainable sourcing, fair compensation, and full traceability. Every batch of Timur reflects not just Himalayan biodiversity, but the skill and labor of the communities who preserve it.

Yomari Punhi, a festival observed mainly by Newar community, signifies the end of rice harvesting. This festival involve...
04/12/2025

Yomari Punhi, a festival observed mainly by Newar community, signifies the end of rice harvesting. This festival involves making and eating Yomari, a steamed rice flour dumpling which is filled with jaggery, nuts, and sesame seeds. Its sweet and rich flavor symbolizes a good harvest and prosperity. This day reminds us to be grateful for the year’s crops and to gather with the loved ones in warmth and togetherness.
Wishing you a joyful and prosperous Yomari Punhi from Annapurna Aroma

Onsite distillation setup from Solukhumbu: This photo highlights the condenser unit-one of the key components in convert...
02/12/2025

Onsite distillation setup from Solukhumbu: This photo highlights the condenser unit-one of the key components in converting steam infused with aromatic plant compounds into essential oil and hydrosol. After the steam rises through the plant material, it enters this condenser, where it cools and separates into its final liquid form.

Because transporting raw plant material from remote Himalayan regions is incredibly difficult and costly, these distillation units are intentionally built onsite, close to the source. This ensures that the plants are processed while still fresh, preserving their natural chemistry and maximizing both yield and quality. It also reduces the environmental and financial burden of moving large volumes of biomass over challenging terrain.

Setups like this reflect the ingenuity and deep local understanding found in rural Nepal. Simple, efficient, and built from locally available materials, they demonstrate how traditional knowledge and practical solutions can produce world-class essential oils right at the origin.

𝐶𝑒𝑑𝑟𝑢𝑠 𝑑𝑒𝑜𝑑𝑎𝑟𝑎, or Deodara, is a majestic evergreen from the Pinaceae family, growing up to 40 meters in Nepal’s central...
26/11/2025

𝐶𝑒𝑑𝑟𝑢𝑠 𝑑𝑒𝑜𝑑𝑎𝑟𝑎, or Deodara, is a majestic evergreen from the Pinaceae family, growing up to 40 meters in Nepal’s central Himalayan region at altitudes of 1,100–2,900 meters. Revered locally as “Himalayan cedar” or “Devdar,” it holds both ecological and cultural significance.

Our steam-distilled Cedarwood oil, harvested from March to July, captures its dry, woody aroma with subtle camphoraceous notes in a yellowish to brownish-yellow viscous liquid. This essential oil is highly valued for:

𝐀𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐩𝐲: Promotes relaxation, grounding, and stress relief.
𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐩𝐢𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲 𝐬𝐮𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭: Eases asthma, cough, congestion, and phlegm buildup.
𝐒𝐤𝐢𝐧 & 𝐡𝐚𝐢𝐫 𝐜𝐚𝐫𝐞: Antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and cleanses scalp, removing oil, dirt, and dandruff.
𝐂𝐨𝐬𝐦𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐬 & 𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐮𝐦𝐞𝐫𝐲: Fixative and fragrance in soaps, detergents, perfumes, and other products.

At Annapurna Aroma, we focus on sustainable sourcing and working with local communities, ensuring every drop reflects Himalayan purity, quality, and tradition.

24/11/2025

Chief of the CFUG in Humla shared some fascinating traditional beliefs and practices that have been part of the community for generations. In the past, families used Jatamansi (Spikenard) not only as a medicinal plant but also as a protective remedy. It was believed that applying Jatamansi on the stomach of a pregnant woman supported a healthier pregnancy.

He also explained how Spikenard played an important role during postpartum care. In the past, new mothers were traditionally required to stay in a separate shed instead of the main house. To protect the newborn from insects in those conditions, families would use Spikenard as a natural repellent.

As we continue collaborating with local groups, these insights guide our commitment to ethical and sustainable sourcing. Honoring the past means ensuring that today’s harvesting practices support community wellbeing, protect biodiversity, and preserve the knowledge that has sustained these traditions through time.

21/11/2025

𝑅ℎ𝑜𝑑𝑜𝑑𝑒𝑛𝑑𝑟𝑜𝑛 𝑎𝑛𝑡ℎ𝑜𝑝𝑜𝑔𝑜𝑛, locally known as Sunpati, is an evergreen shrub from the Ericaceae family that grows at elevations of 3000 to 4800 meters in the eastern and central Himalayan regions of Nepal. It is a naturally resilient high-altitude species commonly used in traditional Himalayan practices.

Its essential oil is produced through steam distillation of the aerial parts; both flowers and leaves, and has long been used in herbal teas to aid digestion, stimulate appetite, and support liver health.

In cosmetics and aromatherapy, Sunpati oil is valued for its sweet herbal, faintly balsamic aroma and its cleansing, purifying, and soothing properties. This makes it suitable for use in perfumes, soaps, shampoos, creams, massage oils, and other natural formulations.

Rich in natural constituents such as α-pinene, β-pinene, limonene, and delta-cadinene, Sunpati is wild-crafted and sourced through contracted community forest groups during the harvesting season from August to November, supporting both sustainable practices and local livelihoods.

Black cardamom (𝐴𝑚𝑜𝑚𝑢𝑚 𝑠𝑢𝑏𝑢𝑙𝑎𝑡𝑢𝑚), locally known as large cardamom, is one of the most important spice crops from Nepal’...
19/11/2025

Black cardamom (𝐴𝑚𝑜𝑚𝑢𝑚 𝑠𝑢𝑏𝑢𝑙𝑎𝑡𝑢𝑚), locally known as large cardamom, is one of the most important spice crops from Nepal’s eastern foothills and temperate mid-hills. Thriving between 600–1,800 meters, this perennial plant grows up to 2–3 meters and produces the large, smoky-aromatic seed pods that define its identity.

The spice gets its signature earthy, smoky aroma from the traditional drying method over an open fire. This process gives Nepalese cardamom its unique profile, making it a preferred ingredient in curries, stews, spice blends, and even specialty coffees.

Beyond its culinary value, black cardamom is deeply rooted in traditional medicine for its functional properties. It is known to support digestion, respiratory wellness, appetite improvement, and is used for managing nausea, skin issues, and even reducing bad odor. Some communities have also used it in remedies for general aches and discomfort.

The harvesting season runs from September to November, when the seed pods reach peak aroma and quality.

As Nepal continues to strengthen its presence in the global spice and essential oil industry, black cardamom remains one of our most reliable and culturally significant crops.

Valerian, known scientifically as 𝑉𝑎𝑙𝑒𝑟𝑖𝑎𝑛𝑎 𝑤𝑎𝑙𝑙𝑖𝑐ℎ𝑖𝑖, is a perennial herb native to the pristine Himalayan region, incl...
17/11/2025

Valerian, known scientifically as 𝑉𝑎𝑙𝑒𝑟𝑖𝑎𝑛𝑎 𝑤𝑎𝑙𝑙𝑖𝑐ℎ𝑖𝑖, is a perennial herb native to the pristine Himalayan region, including Nepal. Thriving at altitudes between 1,800 and 3,600 meters, this plant grows naturally in rocky, temperate zones of the mid-hill and high-hill areas, often wildcrafted by local communities who have mastered sustainable harvesting techniques over generations.

At Annapurna Aroma, we source Valerian roots and rhizomes carefully, ensuring that only healthy, mature plants are collected. The roots are then processed to extract the pure essential oil, preserving its therapeutic and aromatic qualities. Valerian essential oil is celebrated for its calming, relaxing, and sedative properties, making it a valuable ingredient in aromatherapy, natural wellness products, and herbal formulations. Its aroma is warm, woody, earthy, with subtle floral and herbaceous notes, offering a grounding and soothing sensory experience.

Traditionally, Valerian has been used in Himalayan and Ayurvedic medicine to support sleep, relieve anxiety, calm the nervous system, and soothe headaches. Its versatility extends to massage oils, diffusers, sleep balms, and herbal wellness products, making it a key component for both holistic health and premium fragrance blends.

By combining traditional knowledge with modern sustainable practices, Annapurna Aroma ensures that every batch of Valerian essential oil is traceable, authentic, and ethically sourced, benefiting both global wellness markets and local Himalayan communities.

14/11/2025

Nepal’s hills and mountains are a remarkable hotspot of biodiversity, hosting an incredible variety of aromatic and medicinal herbs. The wide variation in altitude, climate, and soil across the Himalayan, mid-hill, and Terai regions creates the perfect conditions for plants to thrive, many of which are unique to Nepal.

From the crisp alpine zones where Himalayan Silver Fir, Rhododendron, Spikenard and Juniper flourish, to the mid-hills with Wintergreen, Sil Timur, and Sugandha kokila, and down to the Terai plains with Chamomile, Turmeric, and Lemongrass, each region contributes to a rich natural pharmacy. These plants are carefully wildcrafted or cultivated sustainably, respecting the delicate balance of the ecosystem and ensuring that natural regeneration continues.

At Annapurna Aroma, we are privileged to work alongside local communities who possess deep knowledge of their forests and land. Their dedication ensures that every step, from harvesting to distillation, is done ethically, protecting both the plants and the habitats they grow in. Our work demonstrates that sustainable sourcing and biodiversity conservation can go hand-in-hand with high-quality essential oil production.

By sharing these landscapes and stories, we hope to highlight the immense ecological and cultural value of Nepal’s aromatic plants and the role of responsible businesses in preserving them for generations to come.

Address

Siddhicharan Margh 167, Shantinagar Gate, New Baneswar
Kathmandu
44600

Opening Hours

Monday 08:30 - 21:45
Tuesday 08:30 - 06:00
Wednesday 10:00 - 21:45
Thursday 10:00 - 21:45
Friday 10:00 - 18:00
Sunday 10:00 - 21:45

Telephone

+97714107655

Website

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