Saxony-Anhalt has a long tradition in the agricultural production of high-quality medicinal and aromatic plants (AGP).
The cultivation of thyme, oregano, marjoram and lemon balm and the regional processing of these plants into raw materials for medicinal products, essential oils and spices enable high added value for agricultural businesses.
AGPs make a positive contribution to agricultural ecosystems by expanding crop rotations and providing food for insects.
However, the predominantly small and medium-sized farms in Saxony-Anhalt are subject to many climatic and economic challenges.
There is an enormous research deficit in the field of breeding methodology and molecular genetics, which makes it difficult to achieve rapid increases in yield and quality improvements through breeding.
There is an acute need for breeding research in order to further expand production in line with its high potential and to remain competitive in the region in the long term.
Innovative products will enhance the socio-economic structure of the region in order to create agricultural jobs with high added value in the medium term.
Agricultural businesses and research institutions in Saxony-Anhalt, all of which have many years of experience in researching, breeding and cultivating AGP, are cooperating in this project.
The topic of this joint project is very narrowly defined and focuses on selected plants from the Lamiaceae family, some of which are closely related to each other and whose pharmaceutical and industrial benefits are based on their essential oil content.
The development of this unique digital resource enables efficient collaboration between regional cooperation partners.
The aim here is a sustainable bioeconomy that improves the socio-economic situation of agricultural production communities in Saxony-Anhalt.