October 1, 2025

Deep in the green lands of Kanniyakumari district grows a special herb called Nannari, known for its cool and refreshing powers, and a traditional cure for mouth ulcers. Now, the Tamil Nadu Malaivaazh Makkal Sangam from Kulasekaram, along with the Patent Information Centre of the Tamil Nadu State Council for Science and Technology, is pushing hard to get a Geographical Indication (GI) tag for Kanniyakumari Nannari. Their goal? To protect this herb’s unique identity and bring more fame to its regional charm. The Noorul Islam Centre for Higher Education in Kumaracoil helped file the application, highlighting what makes Kanniyakumari Nannari special. Its roots are thicker, more aromatic, and deeper in color than regular Nannari. These roots are carefully sun-dried, cleaned, and stored, ready for both medicine and delicious cooking. Not just roots, the herb’s magic spreads to products like Nannari Herbal Oil and Nannari Honey. And who can forget the famous Nannari Sarbath? This traditional Indian drink is made by boiling Nannari roots into syrup, then mixing it with lemon juice and cold water for a refreshing treat that locals love. The main growing areas are in the taluks of Agastheeswaram, Thovalai, Vilavancode, and Kalkulam. Villages near Nagercoil, Marthandam, Thuckalay, and Boothapandy are known hotspots for growing Nannari and preparing the unique Kanniyakumari Nannari Sarbath. Intriguingly, the Kani tribe of the Southern Western Ghats in Kanniyakumari holds deep knowledge about medicinal plants like Hemidesmus Indicus, though specific records of their Nannari farming are scarce. This plant has long been part of traditional Siddha and Ayurvedic medicine, valued as a blood purifier, body cooler, and digestive helper. According to historic Siddha and Ayurveda texts, Nannari root’s healing powers have been known for centuries. For over 80 years, its roots have been sold in herbal shops throughout Nagercoil, Marthandam, and nearby areas, proving its lasting popularity. With the GI tag effort underway, this cool and vibrant herb from Tamil Nadu aims to keep its special fame alive for future generations!

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Tags: Nannari, Kanniyakumari, Geographical indication, Herbal medicine, Hemidesmus indicus, Traditional cure,