Brahma Kamal – King of Himalayan Flowers
The Brahma Kamal is the most reverred flower of the Himalayas. It is an excellent example of plant life at high mountains (3,000-4,600 m). The flowers found in monsoons and abundant in high-altitude places like The Valley of Flowers and Hemkund Sahib. Brahma Kamal flowers are used as offering to Nanda Devi Temple. A postal stamp was issued by the Indian Postal Department to commemorate this flower.
English Name |
Saussurea obvallata |
Local Name |
Braham Kamal |
Family |
Asteraceae (Sunflower family) |
Flowering time |
June to September |
Habitat |
In rocky slopes of moraines, among boulders. |
Uses |
This plant is applied to cuts and bruises as local medicine. Brahma Kamal is s herb in Tibetan medicine and it is Sah-du Goh-ghoo. It has a somewhat bitter taste and it promotes heat. It is Used to treat cerebral ischemia and paralysis of the limbs. Infact we can say the entire plant is used. |
Location in the Valley of flowers |
You will find it easily at Hemkund Shahib Lake and one the way to Hemkund Sahib. (Last kilometer. This picture was clicked on 6th September, 2012 at Hemkund Shahib Lake . You will not find this flower at Valley of Flowers |
Following are some of the pictures of the Brahma Kamal(Saussurea Obvallata),hope you will like them all. If yes do not forget to comment or share with your friends.
