Himalayan Wild Apricot, Known as Chulli, Brings Economic Opportunity to Upland Farmers in the Mountains
Wild Apricot of the Himalayas: Chulli Gains Traction in Market and Agriculture
In the high-altitude zones of Himachal Pradesh, a wild apricot known as Chulli is making a name for itself. Traditionally, Chulli has been used primarily for home consumption, sun drying, and preparing traditional drinks by local farmers in the Himalayan region[1]. However, recent studies and initiatives are highlighting its potential in the natural health and beauty market, as well as in sustainable agricultural practices.
Growing and Cultivating Chulli
Chulli trees grow naturally in the regions of Kinnaur, Spiti, Lahaul, and Chamba, requiring no irrigation or fertilizers. If farmers wish to cultivate Chulli deliberately, they can collect wild saplings or prune mature trees to improve branch structure for better fruiting[1]. The trees bloom naturally in spring and yield 35–75 kg per tree during a good season[1].
Processing and Utilization
The fruit can be sun-dried for preservation and later use[1]. Extracting Chulli Ka Tel (wild apricot oil) from the seeds is another traditional practice. This oil is rich in vitamins E, carotenoids, and omega-3 fatty acids, and is valued for nourishing dry skin and revitalizing damaged hair[2].
Chulli fruit is also rich in essential nutrients such as Vitamin A, C, E, and potassium. The fruit can be used to make sun-dried pieces, pulp, jams, chutneys, fruit bars, and traditional fermented liquor[1]. The kernels contain over 45 percent oil, nearly 28 percent protein, and a good amount of fiber and minerals, making them suitable for processing[1]. Chulli seeds and residual presscake can feed livestock or be processed into protein concentrates.
Market Opportunities
Value addition through scientific study and product development like bottled apricot oil and dried fruit products offers new income sources for mountain farmers while supporting biodiversity conservation[1][2]. Marketing Chulli oil as a natural, nutrient-rich cosmetic and dietary product targets consumers interested in herbal, organic, and eco-friendly skincare and haircare options[2].
Promoting naturally grown Chulli in agroforestry and natural orchard systems aligns with sustainable farming trends and product authenticity demands[1]. With support from tribal boards, cooperatives, or agri-extension services, Chulli-based products can reach a wider consumer base.
Safety and Quality Assurance
Producers must ensure safe levels of cyanide in kernels through proper processing, as Chulli seeds contain amygdalin which can release hydrogen cyanide if handled incorrectly[1]. Extracted oil from Chulli kernels brings a higher market value, and local producers have obtained Geographical Indication (GI) status for Kinnauri Chulli oil[1].
Overcoming Challenges
Creating awareness, training rural youth in small-scale processing, and linking to local markets are needed to overcome challenges in Chulli value addition. The fruit ripens between May and August, depending on altitude[1].
In summary, Chulli is a multifunctional wild apricot, traditionally consumed and processed at home, now gaining traction for its nutritional oil and dried fruit. This opens opportunities in the natural health and beauty market as well as in sustainable agricultural practices in Himachal Pradesh[1][2].
[1] Himachal Pradesh Forest Department (2021). Chulli – The Wild Apricot of Himachal Pradesh. Retrieved from https://himachalpradesh.gov.in/chulli-the-wild-apricot-of-himachal-pradesh/ [2] Himalayan Farming Initiative (2021). Chulli: The Wild Apricot of the Himalayas. Retrieved from https://www.himalayanfarming.org/chulli-the-wild-apricot-of-the-himalayas/
- The nutrient-rich Chulli, traditionally consumed and processed for local uses in the Himalayas, is increasingly recognized for its potential in the health-and-wellness market, especially for its nourishing oil and dried fruit, which contains vitamins E, carotenoids, and omega-3 fatty acids that are beneficial for skincare and haircare.
- As Chulli's market value grows due to its various applications in food-and-drink and natural skincare, it provides an opportunity for sustainable environmental-science practices by promoting naturally grown Chulli in agroforestry systems, aligning with trends towards authentic and eco-friendly lifestyles.
