Anyone who’s ever had a soothing cup of chamomile tea from grandma knows: grandmothers often know best. In Albania, this kind of wisdom is still very much alive. Herbs there aren’t just used for flavor or fragrance—they’re time-honored remedies, passed down through generations. And in that rich tradition lies a hidden treasure that more and more people are starting to discover: the healing and aromatic plants of Albania.
With over 3,250 plant species—40 of which are found nowhere else—Albania is a botanical gem. The contrast between its Mediterranean coastline and mountainous interior has created a remarkably rich biodiversity. Think of fragrant sage, wild lavender, mountain tea, and rosemary—plants that smell heavenly and have powerful healing qualities.
In many Albanian households, these herbs are still part of daily life. Grandmothers often know exactly which herb to use for a sore throat, restlessness, or digestive issues. This knowledge goes back centuries, passed down long before pharmacies became the norm.
What many don’t realize is that Albania is one of the world’s top exporters of medicinal plants. In fact, about 75% of the sage imported into the U.S. comes from Albania.
Yet more than 95% of these plants are exported in raw form—dried but unprocessed. They leave the country without being turned into essential oils, skincare products, or natural medicines. As a result, valuable economic potential is lost, and the rich stories behind these plants often go untold.
Many herbs are still harvested in the wild, often without clear regulations. This has led to overharvesting and the decline of rare species. On top of that, traditional knowledge is at risk of vanishing as younger generations move away from rural villages.
The path forward lies in sustainable cultivation, using local seed varieties, and better research to protect biodiversity. Only then can this living tradition be preserved for the generations to come.
In mountain regions like Malësia e Madhe, Kukës, and Dibër, growing and harvesting medicinal herbs is more than tradition—it’s essential. In some areas, it makes up as much as 40% of a family’s income.
This sector doesn’t just bring financial stability—it helps keep communities alive in remote regions. The rhythm of nature, ancestral knowledge, and deep connection to the land form a cultural heritage that continues to bloom.
Curious about the calming effects of Caij Mali, also known as vervain? Discover more in this beautiful blog post about the role of this special herb in everyday life: Vervain and Your Inner Peace
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Pure, simple, and powerful — just like the herbs from the mountains.
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