In the heart of Iran’s nomadic landscape, where vast mountains and rugged valleys stretch as far as the eye can see, lives Jahangir, a member of one of the many nomadic tribes that traverse the Iranian plateau. Jahangir’s life is a harmonious blend of tradition, survival, and a deep connection to the natural world. He is part of a family that has lived in this region for generations, moving from one pasture to another, following the ancient rhythms of the seasons. His tribe, like many nomadic groups in Iran, has long relied on the land for everything: food, shelter, and sustenance. But there is one essential part of their lifestyle that Jahangir holds close to his heart: the gathering of wild plants.
The Call to Sardsir: A Journey into the Mountains
Every year, when the spring season arrives and the highlands begin to warm up, Jahangir embarks on a journey to a special place in the mountains—Sardsir. This remote and pristine region is known for its unique and abundant wild plants, which grow in the wild meadows and rocky terrains. These plants are not just ordinary herbs or flowers; they are vital to the nomads’ way of life. Some of them are used in medicine, others for culinary purposes, and a few are even prized for their ability to protect livestock or improve the health of the soil.
Sardsir, a place known for its vast stretches of wild flora, is located deep in the mountains, far from the village. To get there, Jahangir must journey across rough terrain, navigating through forests, riverbeds, and steep cliffs. It’s a journey that requires skill, patience, and a deep understanding of the land—qualities that Jahangir has inherited from his father and grandfather, both of whom made the same trip in their youth.
Preparing for the Journey: Packing Essentials
As the days grow longer and the warmth of the spring sun begins to spread across the land, Jahangir prepares for the journey. His family—his wife, two children, and his younger brother—help him pack supplies for the trip. Jahangir carries only what is essential: a sturdy walking stick, a large woven basket for collecting plants, a knife for cutting, and a flask of water. His children, eager for the adventure, carry small bags of their own, filled with simple food for the road, including dried fruits and flatbread.
Before he leaves, Jahangir’s wife reminds him of the importance of the journey. “The plants from Sardsir will help us through the year,” she says, her voice filled with pride. “They are not just for us; they are for the animals, the village, and the elders. Make sure you gather what is needed.”
For Jahangir, this trip is a way to honor the generations before him, those who traveled to Sardsir to find these precious plants. It’s a family tradition, and he knows that the journey is more than just a physical one—it’s a spiritual journey that connects him to his ancestors and the natural world.
The Journey Begins: A Connection with Nature
The road to Sardsir is long and winding. Jahangir sets off early in the morning, the sun just beginning to rise over the horizon, casting a warm glow across the rugged landscape. His children walk alongside him, the sounds of their laughter and the rhythmic clop of their sandals on the rocky path filling the air. Along the way, they pass through vast stretches of grassland, dotted with wildflowers in every color imaginable.
Jahangir teaches his children about the plants they encounter along the way. “This one,” he says, pointing to a patch of vibrant yellow flowers, “is called Chives, and it’s used to treat colds and sore throats. The wild herbs in these mountains have been used for generations.”
As they ascend higher into the mountains, the landscape changes. The air becomes cooler, and the vegetation shifts to tougher, more resilient plants. Jahangir leads his family through the steep slopes, always watching for signs of danger and always looking for the familiar patches of wild plants he knows so well.
The Arrival at Sardsir: The Bounty of the Mountains
After several days of travel, Jahangir and his family finally arrive at Sardsir. The area is breathtaking: a wide expanse of lush meadows bordered by towering peaks, with small streams trickling down from the highlands. The air is fresh and fragrant with the smell of pine and wild herbs. This is where Jahangir will gather the plants his people rely on for the rest of the year.
As Jahangir and his children walk across the meadows, he starts pointing out the various plants they need to harvest. There’s Tarragon, known for its healing properties and used in cooking; Thyme, a powerful herb for both medicinal and culinary uses; and Nettle, which is valued for its ability to treat various ailments and support health.
Jahangir uses his knife to carefully cut the plants, being careful not to disturb the roots or damage the surrounding area. He teaches his children how to harvest the plants responsibly, taking only what they need and leaving the rest to grow for future seasons. “The mountain gives us what we need, but we must always show respect,” Jahangir tells them.
For Jahangir, this is not just a practical task; it is a deep spiritual connection to the land. Each plant that he harvests feels like a gift from the earth—a gift that must be honored and used wisely.
The Return Journey: Bringing the Gifts of Sardsir Home
With the baskets full of wild plants, Jahangir and his family begin their journey back to their camp. The return journey is just as important as the trip to Sardsir. The plants they have gathered will help sustain the family through the seasons, providing food, medicine, and remedies for various ailments.
As they make their way back, Jahangir reflects on the journey. He knows that this practice has been handed down from his ancestors—nomads who wandered these mountains and learned how to live in harmony with nature. The plants they gather not only provide for the family but also serve as a reminder of their deep connection to the land.
When they arrive home, the plants will be dried and stored, prepared for use throughout the year. Some will be used for teas, others for soups, and some will be ground into powders for medicine. Jahangir feels a deep sense of fulfillment. The journey to Sardsir has been more than just a task—it has been an opportunity to connect with the land, honor his heritage, and teach his children the ways of their people.
Conclusion: A Lifelong Tradition
Jahangir’s journey to Sardsir is a small but significant part of the nomadic lifestyle in Iran. It represents a way of life that is deeply intertwined with nature, survival, and respect for the land. For Jahangir and his family, gathering wild plants is not just a chore; it is a tradition that connects them to their ancestors and ensures that they continue to live in balance with the environment around them.
Through this journey, Jahangir passes on important lessons to his children—lessons about patience, respect, and the interconnectedness of all living things. It is a journey that will continue for generations, ensuring that the secrets of the mountains, the wisdom of the wild plants, and the spirit of the nomadic life live on.
