An acid is found in shoots, namely humulones and lupulones. These acids are believed to play an effective role in killing cancer cells in the human body.
The world’s most expensive vegetable costs Rs 1 lakh per kg. The world’s most expensive vegetable is being produced in Aurangabad district of Bihar as a test. The name of this vegetable is hop-shoots. Hop-shoots were discovered in the 11th century and were then used as a flavoring agent in beer. After this it was used as herbal medicine and gradually as vegetable. An acid is found in shoots, namely humulones and lupulones. These acids are believed to play an effective role in killing cancer cells in the human body. Due to its quality, it is the most expensive vegetable in the world.
Amresh Singh, a 38-year-old farmer from Karamdih village under the Navinagar block in Aurangabad district of Bihar, is the first farmer in India to cultivate hop-shoots. Six years ago, he sold one kilogram of hop-shoots in the international market for 1000 pounds, which makes about one lakh rupees in Indian rupees. This vegetable is very difficult to find in the Indian market and can be purchased only on special order.
Amresh Singh says that if Prime Minister Narendra Modi takes special steps to promote the cultivation of hop-shoots, then the income of farmers can increase by 10 times in no time. Presently, hop-shoots are being cultivated under the supervision of Dr. Lal, an agricultural scientist from the Indian Vegetable Research Institute, Varanasi.
Amresh told that he had brought the seeds of this vegetable from the Indian Vegetable Research Institute, Varanasi, and planted it in his field just two months ago. He said that he is hopeful that his hard work will be successful and this will also bring a big change in farming in Bihar.
The fruits, fruits, and stems of hop-shoots are all used to make beverages, to make beer, and to make medicines such as antibiotics. Medicines made from this vegetable stem are also used in the treatment of TB.
The use of hop-shoots as a herb is very popular in European countries. Here it is used to keep the skin bright and youthful. Antioxidants are found in abundant amounts in this vegetable. The medicine made from hop-shoots improves the digestive system and brings relief in depression and angst.
Hop-shoots are cultivated extensively in Britain, Germany and other European countries. In India, its cultivation was first started in Himachal Pradesh but due to its very high price, it was discontinued due to unavailability of market.
Amaresh cultivates many medicinal and aromatic plants apart from hop-shoots. He said that in agriculture, taking risks with confidence has always been in the interest of farmers. I have taken the risk of experimenting with the cultivation of hop-shoots in Bihar and I am confident that this will create a new history.