
Importance and Cultivation of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants
Medicinal and aromatic plants have great importance in terms of both health and economy. These plants are used in a wide range of applications from traditional medicine to modern health practices. Turkey is extremely suitable for the cultivation of these plants thanks to its rich vegetation and climate conditions. Medicinal aromatic plants Cultivation contributes to local economies while also supporting environmental sustainability.
Areas of Use of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants
Medicinal and aromatic plants have a variety of uses, including:
- Medicine: Plants are used to treat various diseases and maintain health.
- Cosmetic: They are found in skin care products and perfumes.
- Food: It is consumed as spices, teas and natural sweeteners.
The use of these plants both promotes healthy living and increases the demand for natural products.
Medicinal and Aromatic Plant Cultivation in Turkey
Türkiye has rich potential for the cultivation of medicinal and aromatic plants. Karabük Many provinces such as Karabük have suitable climate conditions and soil structure for the cultivation of these plants. Lands are Crowned with Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (NATURE) The project is an important step to evaluate this potential. The project, which was launched in 2023, targeted 441 decares of planting area for the cultivation of plants with high economic value.
Project Goals and Expectations
This project, led by Karabük Governor Mustafa Yavuz, aims to increase the cultivation areas by 2024. 767 acres aims to extract. Plants such as saffron, aronia and buckwheat will be grown within the scope of the project. The planting of such plants aims to improve the economic situation of the local people and to revitalize rural tourism. Yavuz said, “With this project, we aim to reduce migration by doing agriculture in the village.”
Cultivation of Saffron and Other Products
Saffron is known as one of the most valuable spices in the world. Turkey has an important place in saffron production. While saffron was planted in 2023 decares in 81, this amount is expected to increase by 2024% to 30 decares by the end of 105. AroniaWhile it was planted on an area of 2023 decares in 32, it is aimed to increase this area by 2024% to 187 decares in 92.
Planting and Importance of Buckwheat
Buckwheat has an important place in the Karabük region. As of 2023, buckwheat is planted on 132 acres of land and is planned to increase by 2024% in 184, reaching 375 acres. This plant attracts attention with both its nutritional properties and economic value. The cultivation of buckwheat provides additional income to local farmers and also contributes to food security.
Cultivation of Sumac as a Value Added Product
Sumac will also be planted within the scope of the project. It is planned to plant sumac in a total area of 35 decares in the villages of Ovacık, Safranbolu and the central districts. Sumac, as a natural spice, adds flavor to dishes and is also beneficial for health. In this context, sumac planting is expected to contribute to the local economy.
Harvest Festivals and the Development of Rural Tourism
To be held during the harvest period of medicinal and aromatic plants festivities, will both increase awareness and revitalize rural tourism. Saffron harvest festivities will be enlivened with the participation of local people and thus local products will be promoted. In addition, these events will support the local economy by providing farmers with the opportunity to market their products.
As a result
Cultivation of medicinal and aromatic plants offers a great opportunity in terms of both economic and environmental sustainability by taking advantage of Turkey's rich nature. This process, supported by projects and festivals, will increase the quality of life of the local people and meet the demand for natural products.