Study of Autochthon Camelina sativa (L.) Crantz in Slovenia

Abstract

SURMMARY Camelina sativa (L.) Crantz (Cruciferae) or false flax, an old oil-seed crop, is gaining interest because of its low environmental impact and wide possibilities of use. The tradition of growing false flax is still present in Slovenia. In folk medicine, the oil is considered a good remedy for stomach ulcers, the treatment of burns, wounds, eye inflammations and as a tonic. A widespread investigation of false flax growing and technologies used was conducted. A pilot cultivation experiment with seeds of local population was done in the experimental field of the institute. Analysis of oil content and composition was performed. The traditional way of false flax growing is very extensive. The field is prepared by ploughing the meadow to avoid problems with weeds. Sowing takes place at the end of March. The only fertilizer is manure. The plots are relatively small. The harvest takes place in July. Harvested plants are air dried and threshed. Seeds are kept in sacks and processed a short time before the oil is sold. The oil content of the seeds from the experimental field was around 33%. The content of fatty acids was typical, with high polyunsaturated fatty acid content. The crop showed some problems of a nonstabilized cultivar. The tradition of cultivating and using false flax could be a good basis for its introduction in sustainable crop rotation. The important role in knowing and preserving this crop in Slovenia is played by farmers. It is an ideal model for the introduction of on-farm conservation and management practices.