Why doesn't Banyan Botanicals carry some common Ayurvedic herbs like sandalwood, jatamansi, and kutki?

Just as you’ve heard of endangered species of animals, plants and herbs can also face similar endangerment.

As Ayurveda has gained acknowledgment worldwide, the demand for herbal products has grown exponentially. As a result, many popular herbs have become endangered. Examples include jatamansi (Nardostachys jatamansi), kutki (Picrorhiza kurroa), sandalwood (Pterocarpus santalinus), red sandalwood (Pterocarpus santalinus), and tagar (Valeriana wallichii).

Many manufacturers find ways to sell endangered products, even if the herb was not grown or harvested sustainably. This can damage the plants and push them closer to the risk of extinction.

As a leader in the Ayurvedic community, Banyan Botanicals is committed to protecting the long term health and biodiversity of medicinal plants. We do not carry any herbs that are not sustainably sourced, nor do we carry herbs that are recognized as being endangered. 

We invite you to join us in safeguarding the health and longevity of these plant species by supporting businesses that conduct their trade ethically and responsibly.