drumstick (सहजन)
About drumstick (सहजन)
In Nepal, drumsticks, known locally as 'Sajivan' or 'Shitalchini' are a common and cherished vegetable. They are particularly favored in the Terai region and lower hills, where the Moringa tree thrives in the warm and humid climate. The drumstick is widely used in traditional Nepalese cooking, appearing in a variety of curries, stews, and soups. They are valued not only for their distinct flavor but also for their nutritional benefits. For many families in Nepal, the drumstick tree is a common feature in the backyard, acting as both a food source and a natural remedy. Furthermore, they are sometimes sold in local markets, although they're more often sourced from personal gardens.
Nutritional info
These are the major micro nutrients found in drumstick
Seasonality
In Nepal, drumsticks are primarily available during the warmer months, with their peak season typically coinciding with the monsoon and post-monsoon period, approximately from **June/July to October/November**. This is when the Moringa trees are most productive. However, depending on local micro-climates and specific weather patterns, there can be some variation to this seasonality. It's also important to note that the availability may depend on whether it's from a home garden or market. As such they can be available in other times too.
History
The history of drumstick cultivation and use in Nepal is not well documented in academic sources, it is deeply ingrained in the local culinary and traditional medicine practices. It's likely that the Moringa tree was introduced to Nepal through trade and migration routes over many centuries. Given that the tree thrives in tropical and subtropical regions, it would have found a suitable habitat in the warmer parts of Nepal. Its ease of cultivation and its many uses would have quickly led to its widespread adoption by local communities. Therefore, It is more accurate to say it has been integrated into daily life of Nepali for generations. Its use has evolved more as an oral tradition and culinary heritage rather than a historical record, making it difficult to trace a specific documented history in Nepal.