Croatian Institute for Adriatic Crops and Karst Reclamation, FEBT’s C2T stakeholder, is at the forefront of preserving and revitalizing the rich ethnobotanical heritage of the Dalmatian hinterland. Under the leadership of scientist Tonka Ninčević Runjić, the Institute conducted the largest ethnobotanical research project ever undertaken in this region. This ambitious study, a collaboration between the Institute, Center of competences (CEKOM 3LJ), and various other partners, aimed to document and preserve the traditional knowledge of wild edible and medicinal plants.
The ethnobotanical research organized by Tonka Ninčević Runjić is critical in addressing the imminent threat of losing valuable traditional knowledge about the use of wild edible plant species. The project focuses on recording local traditions in the Dalmatian hinterland, marking the first detailed documentation of wild edible plants in this area. This initiative is funded by the European Regional Development Fund under the Operational Programme Competitiveness and Cohesion 2014-2020 as part of the CEKOM 3LJ—Center of Competence 3LJ project. The research findings were published in the scientific paper “Wild Edible Plants Used in Dalmatian Zagora (Croatia)” in Plants journal.
In this study, 180 residents of the Dalmatian hinterland were surveyed, resulting in the identification of 136 species of wild edible plants and 22 species of edible mushrooms used in the region. This extensive documentation serves as a foundational step towards achieving the ultimate goals of the CEKOM 3LJ project, which include increasing the use and commercialization of wild, medicinal, and aromatic plants in the food and pharmaceutical industries of the Split-Dalmatia County.
Historical Context and Previous Research
This research stands out as one of the most comprehensive ethnobotanical studies in the Dalmatian hinterland. First ethnobotanical studies were conducted decades apart, mainly on the Adriatic coast. The first, from 1962 to 1986, was led by biologist Josip Bakić of the Institute for Maritime Medicine in collaboration with the Yugoslav Navy. This pioneering research included military survival experiments where soldiers survived solely on wild plants and marine life they harvested themselves. The project involved surveys of people who ate wild plants during the World Wars, culminating in survival manuals, books, documentaries, and workshops.
The second major ethnobotanical study in Croatia was conducted more recently by Polish ethnobotanist Łukasz Łuczaj, who explored the ethnobotanical traditions of the Dalmatian islands, parts of Istria, and areas around Šibenik.
Scientific Validation of Traditional Knowledge
Research continues to validate the medicinal properties of plants traditionally used in folk medicine. For example, the antioxidant and antibacterial properties of many plants have been scientifically confirmed. These discoveries are often the result of a combination of trial and error and intuitive knowledge passed down through generations. The Institute is currently studying the chemical and genetic characteristics of hawthorn, rosehip, and sorb apples, under the expertise of Dr. Mira Radunić. The goal is to develop products based on these plants’ beneficial properties.
This project’s goal was to leverage the traditional knowledge into new commercial opportunities. In partnership with Pharmagal, the project will introduce 15 new products derived from wild plants. Additionally, a collaboration with Puđa cheese factory in Trilj will result in cheeses infused with selected wild plants, bringing the benefits of these traditional foods to a wider market.
The Institute for Adriatic Crops and Karst Reclamation’s ethnobotanical research in the Dalmatian hinterland not only preserves crucial cultural heritage but also paves the way for innovative applications in food and medicine. By bridging traditional knowledge with modern science, the Institute ensures that the invaluable ethnobotanical heritage of the region continues to thrive and benefit future generations.
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