Valeriana jatamansi (Muskbala) is suitable for hilly areas in 1500-3500 m altitude and is grown both for aromatic and medicinal purposes. Its roots are used in herbal drugs as tranquilliser, sedative and stimulant. The crop duration is two years. The fresh underground parts of V. jatamansi contain 0.4 % essential oil. The institute has developed an improved cultivar “Himbala”, which produces 15 kg oil/ha. The crop holds promise under agro-forestry system for additional income to the growers. The net profit after two years of cultivation is Rs 1.5 lakhs per hectare.

Cost of cultivation : Rs. 50,000/ha

Gross return : Rs. 2,00,000/ha

Net profit : Rs. 1,50,000/ha