Hidden deep within the rugged terrains of the Himalayas lies a shrub that’s as powerful as it is aromatic—Himalayan Zanthoxylum alatum. Known in various regions as Timur, Toothache Tree, or Indian Prickly Ash, this remarkable plant is both a spice and a natural healer. Its unique flavor, medicinal properties, and cultural importance have made it a cherished part of traditional life in the Himalayan highlands.
At Rakaposhi Intl Pvt Ltd, we proudly collect and supply wild-harvested Zanthoxylum alatum from clean, unpolluted regions of the Himalayas, Hindukush, and Karakoram, delivering its benefits to the global market.
🌿 What is Zanthoxylum alatum?
- Family: Rutaceae (the citrus family)
- Local names: Timur, Tejbal, Toothache tree, Tumburu
- Habitat: Grows naturally between 1,000 – 2,500 meters above sea level
- Plant type: Spiny aromatic shrub or small tree
- Parts used: Fruits (dry seed husks), bark, and leaves
This plant is widely used in indigenous systems of medicine, culinary applications, and even natural pest control.
🔍 Botanical & Sensory Features
Zanthoxylum alatum produces small reddish-brown fruits, which open up to release black seeds. However, it’s the outer husk that is used as a spice and medicinal agent. The taste is tingly, citrusy, slightly spicy, and mouth-numbing—very similar to Sichuan pepper but with its own wild Himalayan identity.
The leaves and bark are rich in essential oils, giving off a refreshing, citrus-like aroma when crushed.
🌟 Key Benefits and Traditional Uses
1. Digestive & Metabolic Support
Timur is traditionally used to treat indigestion, bloating, intestinal worms, and loss of appetite. Its spicy, aromatic nature stimulates digestive enzymes and helps in gut cleansing.
2. Toothache & Oral Care
Its nickname “Toothache Tree” comes from its use in relieving tooth pain. Chewing the husk or applying the paste to gums has been a common village remedy for centuries.
3. Anti-inflammatory & Antimicrobial
The bark and fruits have potent antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. It’s used to treat skin infections, wounds, and sore throat.
4. Culinary Spice
In Nepal, northern Pakistan, and some parts of India, Zanthoxylum is used to flavor meat, pickles, chutneys, and curries. Its sharp flavor cuts through richness and enhances overall taste.
5. Respiratory Relief
The essential oil from the plant is traditionally inhaled or used in steam therapy to clear sinuses and relieve asthma and cough.
🧪 Phytochemical Composition
Zanthoxylum alatum is rich in:
- Limonene
- Linalool
- Zanthoxylin
- β-sitosterol
- Flavonoids and Alkaloids
- Essential oils (especially in fruits and leaves)
These compounds contribute to its analgesic, antimicrobial, and stimulant effects.
🏞️ Sustainable Wild Collection
At Rakaposhi Intl Pvt Ltd, our Zanthoxylum is wild-harvested from natural Himalayan forests, particularly in regions of Gilgit-Baltistan, Hazara, Swat, and Chitral. Local communities are trained to collect only mature fruits during the proper season, ensuring sustainable yield and ecosystem preservation.
💼 Commercial & Industrial Uses
- Herbal teas and tonics
- Spice blends and condiments
- Natural oral care products
- Essential oil extraction
- Traditional medicine and herbal supplements
We offer dried fruit husks, whole berries, and essential oil in bulk for exporters, herbal product manufacturers, and specialty food brands.
🧂 How to Use Zanthoxylum alatum at Home
- Spice mix: Toast and grind the husks for seasoning meat, lentils, or chutney
- Herbal tea: Steep 4–5 husks in hot water with ginger for digestion
- Toothache remedy: Chew 1–2 dried husks or apply powder to gums
- Inhalation: Boil leaves in water for steam therapy
✅ Why Choose Himalayan Zanthoxylum alatum?
- 100% wild and organic
- Lab-tested for purity and safety
- Handpicked by skilled Himalayan collectors
- Supports rural livelihoods and biodiversity
🔚 Conclusion: A Wild Wonder of the Himalayas
Zanthoxylum alatum is more than a spice—it’s a symbol of the wisdom of traditional Himalayan healing and a testament to the power of wild herbs. Whether you’re a natural product maker, herbalist, or spice trader, this plant offers a rare combination of flavor, function, and folklore.
Looking to source premium, wild Himalayan Zanthoxylum?
Contact Rakaposhi Intl Pvt Ltd for samples, technical specs, and export details.
