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Wednesday, February 18, 2026

Salvia miltiorrhiza Farming Guide: Future Medicinal Gold of Kashmir

Red Sage Roots
Salvia miltiorrhiza, commonly known as Red Sage or Danshen, is an important medicinal plant valued worldwide for its powerful therapeutic roots. Originally native to China, this herb has gained significant attention in Himalayan regions, including Kashmir, due to its adaptability to cool temperate climates and high commercial demand. The plant is mainly cultivated for its deep red roots, which are rich in bioactive compounds such as salvianolic acids and tanshinones. These compounds are widely used in herbal medicine, nutraceuticals, and pharmaceutical industries, particularly for supporting heart health, improving blood circulation, and managing cardiovascular disorders.

Kashmir’s climate and soil conditions make it a promising region for the commercial cultivation of Red Sage. The plant thrives in well-drained sandy or loamy soils with moderate moisture and full sunlight. It prefers cool temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C, which are common in many parts of the Kashmir Valley. Farmers can grow the crop using seeds or root cuttings, with planting usually done in spring. The roots typically mature for harvest within two to three years, after which they are carefully cleaned, shade-dried, and prepared for sale or processing.

The commercial potential of Salvia miltiorrhiza in Kashmir is considerable. With increasing global demand for natural medicines and herbal extracts, Red Sage cultivation offers farmers an opportunity to diversify into high-value medicinal crops. The dried roots are in demand among Ayurvedic, Unani, and international herbal product manufacturers. By adopting scientific cultivation methods, proper drying techniques, and strong market connections, farmers in Kashmir can develop Red Sage as a profitable and sustainable medicinal crop. Its cultivation not only supports economic growth but also strengthens the region’s reputation as a hub for valuable medicinal plants and herbal resources.

For the past 15 years, the Jammu and Kashmir Medicinal Plants Induction Centre in pvt. sector institition has been working on this plant with great dedication. In 2006, the institution collected 3000 kg of its roots and in 2008, 4200 kg. And has started its plantation again from 2026. It is hoped that it will be able to collect its roots for the third time in 2028.

Planting material can be pbtained from.

POB 40 GPO Srinagar, Kashmir-JK 190001

WhatsApp : 9858986794
Ph: 01933-223705
e-mail: jkmpic@gmail.com