Black Stone Flower is a species of edible Lichen grown throughout the temperate and Alpine regions of the Himalayas; hilly regions of Peninsular India i.e., Virgin mountains of Himachal Pradesh. Greenish mineral grey in color, this spice grows on branches of Palm or Coconut trees in forest areas as well as in rocky areas with ample rainfall. Stone flower clings and grows on tree barks from bottom to top as little flakes. Hence this needs to be harvested gently without cracking any barks. In its raw state black stone flower doesn’t have much taste or fragrance. By itself it is bitter, pungent and astringent in taste. However when put it contact with heat (especially hot cooking oil/ ghee) it releases a distinctive earthy, smoky flavor and aroma.

NUTRITIONAL BENEFITS…

1) KIDNEY AND BLADDER HEALTH: Black Stone flower has strong 'Kapha' balancing attributes which aids in curing instances of kidney stones. It has excellent diuretic abilities that help in smooth excretion of urine and liquid waste. It helps prevent Urolithiasis (formation of stones in bladder and urinary tract); Urinary tract infections; pacify cases of Dysuria and painful urination.

2) PRESERVES GUT HEALTH: Stone flower has Pitta balancing qualities which helps in correcting instances of Gastritis due to its cooling potency to bring down high acidity and excessive heat in GI tract. Its antimicrobial properties are useful in treating inflammation, ulcers in stomach and intestines that are triggered by bacteria.

3) MITIGATES ASTHMA: Stone flower has powerful antioxidants that showcase powerful decongestant traits. It is helpful in resolving asthma symptoms of wheezing, chest congestion, breathing difficulty, chest pain and obstruction in lungs and respiratory passages.

4) TISSUE HEATH: This spice has amazing anti-inflammatory properties that heal wounds on external tissues of the skin. In addition to this, the antimicrobial properties thwart infections from stemming in exposed areas of injured skin.