Mongolian cultural practice inscribed on UNESCO's List of Intangible Heritage

Mongolia's traditional technique of making airag in khokhuur and its associated customs were inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, Mongolian Ministry of Education, Culture, Science and Sports said Thursday.

The decision to add the cultural practice to the list was made Wednesday during the 14th session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage being held in the Colombian capital of Bogota, according to the ministry.

The technique includes the traditional method of making airag (fermented mare's milk) and the related equipment, such as the khokhuur (cowhide vessel), buluur (paddle) and khovoo (kibble), associated with the social customs and rituals.

Airag is a traditional national beverage in Mongolia. To make airag, fresh mare's milk is churned inside khokhuur at least 500 times, with a starter to assist fermentation.

Mongolians usually make airag in summer and autumn seasons. They believe that airag has a detoxifying effect on human body, and it is good to treat lung and respiratory diseases, tuberculosis, and to stimulate digestion.