By Hamdane Allalou, IPF Algeria Chair Algeria's microclimate and geographical diversity provide several advantages for growing plants for perfume, aromatics, medicinal herbs, and essential oils.
Located in North Africa, Algeria has a diverse microclimate due to its vast territory and geographical features. The country experiences a Mediterranean climate along the northern coastline, characterized by mild, rainy winters and hot, dry summers. Inland, the climate transitions to a desert climate, with extreme temperatures and very little rainfall. Mediterranean Climate The northern coastal region of Algeria experiences a Mediterranean climate, characterized by mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. This climate is ideal for cultivating a wide range of aromatic plants, including lavender, rosemary, thyme, and geranium. These plants thrive in the moderate temperatures and benefit from the region's sufficient rainfall. Mountainous Areas Algeria is home to the Atlas Mountains, which run through the country. The higher elevations in these mountainous regions offer cooler temperatures and greater rainfall, creating microclimates suitable for growing plants like rose, chamomile, and mint. These plants are commonly used in perfumery, aromatherapy, and medicinal applications. Algeria is known for its production of high-quality rose and jasmine flowers. The flowers grown in Algeria's microclimate tend to have intense fragrance profiles, making them desirable for perfume production. Sahara Desert Algeria's vast Sahara Desert, covering a significant portion of the country, presents unique opportunities for cultivating certain plants used in perfumes, aromatics, and essential oils. Desert-adapted plants such as myrrh, frankincense, cypress, and juniper grow well in the arid conditions of the desert. These plants have aromatic qualities and are valued for their essential oils. Indigenous Flora Algeria boasts a rich biodiversity with a variety of native plant species. Many of these plants have aromatic, medicinal, or cosmetic properties. For example, the Atlas cedar, Aleppo pine, eucalyptus, and various herbs like thyme, oregano, and sage are found in Algeria and can be utilized for their essential oils or medicinal benefits. Organic Production Potential Algeria has vast areas of relatively untouched or minimally cultivated land, which presents opportunities for organic farming practices. Growing plants for perfume, aromatics, medicinal herbs, and essential oils under organic conditions can enhance their quality and appeal to the market. Altogether, Algeria's diverse microclimates, ranging from the Mediterranean coast to the Sahara Desert, provide favorable conditions for a wide range of plants used in perfume, aromatics, medicinal herbs, and essential oils. This abundance of natural resources contributes to the country's potential for cultivation and production in these sectors.
1 Comment
By Terry Johnson, IPF Vice Chair and New Luxury Expert In Martha M. Tyson’s wonderful book: The Healing Landscape: Therapeutic Outdoor Environments, she perfectly sums up what is so essential about gardens:
“The garden or landscape is connected to people in a way that is uniquely healing in its essence. The restorative qualities of gardens span the human spectrum and have no social, cultural, or ethnic boundaries. Gardens may contain elements that are specific to culture, climate, or time; however, the simple truth of their existence reflects the universal for human interaction with nature, with humans as stewards of the land.” Tyson is talking about one of three benefits to human healing that gardens can provide. The first benefit is the restorative power of enjoying a completed garden. The second wellness benefit is a prequel to the completed garden: the therapeutic effects gained from the process of gardening. Anyone spending serious time gardening will feel the amazing positive effects that come from the gardening process. The satisfaction coming from gardening and major stress reduction are two great reasons for gardening. And once the gardening process is completed, the wellness benefits of a completed garden kick in! The third benefit is The Healing Garden. Plants and flowers offer tremendous healing benefits that include rebuilding immune systems, detoxifying organs and tissues, and even slowing the aging process. And there are many ways you can bring plants into your home and lifestyle, using them safely and effectively to enhance your wellbeing. You can learn more about the benefits of healing gardens from Dr. Danica-Lea Larcombe, who has a background in environmental health and has completed a PhD on biodiversity and human health through the Centre for Ecosystem Management at Edith Cowan University. Her "study from home" MasterClass starts each first Monday of the month. Reconnecting with nature is such an important activity for all of us in today’s stress-filled environment, and gardening and gardens (especially healing gardens) can lead us to health and happiness in several significant ways. Finally cities are deciding to have their own Healing Garden. The Singapore's Healing Garden showcases over 400 varieties of plants used medicinally. It is laid out thematically relating to component parts of the body such as head, respiratory and reproductive systems. Spread over 2.5 hectares, this garden is designed as a tranquil retreat with medicinal plants traditionally used in Southeast Asia as the main focus. Singapore invites us to immerse ourself in the beauty and serenity of the Healing Garden, and discover the power of plants to heal and enhance our quality of life. |
AuthorsAuthors are gardening and essential oils experts in a variety of categories including distillation, plants healing and cleansing properties. Archives
May 2023
Categories
All
|