Daphne

You have probably heard of lokta papers a lot if you have been to stationary shops or Nepali souvenir shops. Lokta papers are those thick wrinkled papers out of which many decorative lamp covers, stationery items like diaries etc are made. They also come in many colours. These papers are made from the inner barks of this very plant. First the barks are scraped off and then soaked in water for about 5-6 hours. Then it is cooked in a solution of hot water water and soda for 1-2 hours. Finally it is hammered and converted into pulp. These pulps are then poured onto wooden frames and left out to dry. The plant itself consists of sweet scented leaves and white flowers appearing on bare branches. In addition to providing lokta papers with the raw materials the bark is also given in decoction to treat fevers. Juice from the root treats intestinal problems as well.