There are hundreds of medicinal and aromatic plants in Sinai, especially around the High Mountan Region which has a wetter and cooler climate. Many of them are endemic, which the Bedouin have traditionally used as natural remedies. Most gardens grow some of these wild plants, and the knowledge of the medicine man — the hakim — lives on through apprentices and various projects. We can help you organize a visit to any of the initiatives.
Mahmoud Mansour’s Herbal Project
Mahmoud Mansour, a veteran of the National Park, is one of the best known herbalists in Sinai who has a project in the el-Rasis area of St Catherine. He grows a wide variety of herbs and other plants, and also collects produce from locals, which he dries and packages. You can see some of the herbs in the garden and try them in tea, offered free for every guest.
Ahmed Salah’s Herbal Project
Ahmed Salah is another famous herbalist in Saint Catherine who also has his garden and project in the Rasis area. He grows and collects herbs from people and processes them for sale. You can discover his medicine.
Helwa Garden – Late Dr. Ahmed’s Herbal Garden
Located in Wadi Itlah, one of the most beautiful low wadis, Helwa Garden can be reached from St Catherine in about two hours on foot. Founded by the late hakim Haj Ahmed Diguni, better known as Dr Ahmed, the garden grows a wide variety of medicinal herbs and offers all the basic facilities needed for a comfortable stay.
Mohamed Ouda’s Herbal Garden
Also located in Wadi Itlah, about two hours on foot from Saint Catherine, Mohamed Ouda’s Herbal Garden enjoys a magnificent setting with far-reaching views and attractive traditional architecture featuring numerous terraces and shady seating areas. Like Helwa Garden, it grows a wide variety of herbs and offers all the necessary facilities, including a kitchen and bathrooms.
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