Tunisia - Uncovering A Rich Herbal Heritage
- victoria ward
- 5 days ago
- 3 min read
The next destination to be included in my Herbal Travel Directory will be Tunisia, a North African country nestled between Libya, Algeria and the Mediterranean sea. Tunisia stretches up to the Northern-most tip of Africa, traversing the Atlas mountain range and merges into the Sahara desert in the South.
It is famous for historic sites, predominantly the Unesco Archeological ninth century remains at Carthage. The cultural fabric of this beautiful country weaves Berber, Punic, Roman, Arab, Ottomon and French influences throughout the centuries.
Tunisia is very popular as a beach holiday destination and has a now recovering tourism industry following the terrorist attacks. There are many discussions taking place regarding sustainable tourism in Tunisia with ecotourism heavily promoted, medicinal plant species make a large contribution to the land value here.
Medicinal Plants In Tunisia
Tunisia provides a very diverse habitat including mountainous regions, forest, coastline and desert, the country boasts over 2,000 plant species, many of which are used medicinally and cosmetically.
Tunisia produces around 10,000 tonnes of aromatic and medicinal herbs each year including Rosemary which accounts for 40% of all essential oil exports
Much of Tunisia is arable land, 70% of the agricultural workforce are women working hard in the fields harvesting wild herbs.
Tunisian Herbalism In A Historical Frame
Sophisticated Beginnings
In Roman Carthage, sophisticated agricultural systems were soon developed by Mago who was known as 'The father of agriculture''. Mago's works were later translated by the Roman author and naturalist Pliny and cited in his great book 'Historia Naturalis' . Several medicinal herbs were mentioned, including rosemary, myrtle and rue.
Avicenna And The 'Golden Age'
During the 'Islamic Golden Age' from the 7th century onwards, a period of rapid advancements, the understanding of medicinal herbs also flourished. The great Islamic philosopher Ibn Sina or Avicenna wrote his great 'Canon of Medicine' (1025). This important text contained over 800 medicinal plants alongside their actions, uses and dosages.
The Art Of Distillation
Distillation was a well-established technique by the 12th century, Andalusian influences popularised copper alembic stills. Flowers such as rose, jasmine and bitter orange were distilled as healing rituals and perfumery developed.
Women's Work
Distillation was an art practised by women and passed down through the generations, women arose early and harvested herbs. The herbs including Jasmine, Rose and Orange Blossom were then prepared, often for ritual use.
Present Day
Many of the elder herb sellers are now concerned about a younger generation reluctant to continue often several generations of herbal business, they diversify into other markets and sadly, I fear skills and knowledge will begin to be lost if they cannot see the value in their herbal heritage.
Above is a typical spice stall in a more 'touristy' area, herb and spice sellers often rely on toruist trade to make a living, this has not yet recovered from the attacks ten years ago.
I will be exploring Tunisian herbal heritage in further posts, staring with Carthage and finishing in the enchanting Soul El Blat, Tunis.
Tunisia As A Wellbeing Destination
Wellness tourism is becoming increasingly popular, either for those seeking pampering and relaxation, or for those wanting treatments for specific health concerns. Countries like Tunisia offer excellent value for health and wellness services, they have many top class spas with hammans and specialise in Thalassotherapy which uses sea salt and seaweed.
Products
Many excellent herbal and aromatherapy products are produced in Tunisia, as mentioned above, their rosemary essential oil accounts for 40% of all rosemary essential oil exports worldwide!
They excel in producing several exceptional essential oils due to their fabulous, sunny climate. Whilst in Tunisia I also became obsessed with their lovely floral waters which were incredible value for money
Tunisian Rosemary Essential oil
Tunisan Neroli Essential Oil
Tunisian Olive oil is highly valued and bought up in huge quantities by Italy and Spain due to its superior quality. It looks amazing with a rich, green colour. Try Delyssa Extra Virgin Tunisian Olive Oil
Tunisia is an excellent destination to visit, it has so much to offer and represents amazing value. Support herbal businesses and buy their superb products to contribute to the protection and continuation of their unique herbal heritage
Next time... Sousse medina
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