Aak shrub emerges useful as source for warm clothing

For the first time in India, a plant once dismissed as a wild, thorny shrub dotting Rajasthan's arid landscape—Aak (Calotropis procera)—is being rediscovered as a natural treasure, a research conducted by the Northern India Textile Research Association (NITRA).

- Mukesh Mathrani

BARMER:

Traditionally valued for its medicinal and religious uses, Aak is now emerging as a sustainable, high-quality source of natural fibre, ideal for making warm clothing and even military-grade gear, the study has revealed.

This desert plant, which grows freely on barren, uncultivated land without irrigation or fertilizers, is fast becoming a viable alternative crop for rural farmers, officials from NITRA said, adding that its potential lies in the soft, insulating fibre found inside its green, mango-shaped fruit.

The fibre is extremely lightweight, fine, and capable of providing thermal protection in sub-zero conditions.

According to the research conducted by NITRA, Aak fibre can be used to manufacture products like sleeping bags and jackets that can withstand temperatures as low as -40°C.