The complex and rugged topography of Yunnan and varied climes provide suitable conditions for various types of plants to grow. In this cornucopia of plants, Chinese medicinal herbs stand out like shining pearls. In Lijiang, many traditional Naxi families grow medicinal herbs. Minor illnesses such as headache and fever are treated with boiled herbs, as their ancestors did.

The making of Dongba paper used by the Naxi people is deemed an ancient relic. It has remained intact for hundreds of years. This includes the spruce Laplacea lichiangensis as a main raw material. The Dongba paper goes through a series of procedures before the final product emerges. With pristine raw materials, the manufacturing process is guaranteed and produces no pollutants. Its production technique has been recognized as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage.

Want to know more about Naxi culture? Watch this episode!

Lijiang Series Ep. 10: The herb culture of a Yunnan ethnic group

About 'Journeys in Nature': Lijiang Series

"Plant kingdom" and the "home of Yunnan medicines" are among the nicknames of a famous city in southwest China's Yunnan Province – Lijiang. Not only are the numerous plant species a calling card, but the city is also well-known for its peaks, mountains and mysterious animals. In this series, CGTN Nature unveils the mysteries of a city full of surprises.

(Cover image designed by CGTN's Yupeng; video edited by CGTN's Yu Rong)

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