Naslov (eng)

Traditional use of wild aromatic herbs as spices in southeastern Serbia

Autor

Ćirić, Slobodan A.
Ickovski, Jovana D.
Stepić, Katarina D.
Ljupković, Radomir D.
Jovanović, Tijana V.
Marković, Marija S.
Stankov Jovanović, Vesna P.

Publisher

Opis (eng)

Abstract: Aromatic wild herbs have played an essential role in traditional cuisines and folk practices across the world. This ethnobotanical study investigates the traditional use of wild herb specifically Origanum vulgare L. (wild oregano), Mentha spp. (wild mint), and Thymus spp. (wild thyme) - as culinary spices in the Niš District of southeastern Serbia. Data was collected through an online survey, focusing on harvesting practices and culinary applications. The results indicate that these herbs are commonly harvested in late spring and early summer, dried naturally, and used to season dishes such as meats, cheeses, stews, and herbal teas. Beyond flavoring, the herbs are also associated with health-promoting properties, such as aiding digestion and boosting immunity. Out of the total 47 respondents, 17 reported using harvested wild herbs as spices, from which 5 reported using wild oregano, 7 reported using mint and 5 reported using thyme. The rest of the respondents stated that they use commercially available spices. Traditional knowledge about using wild herbs is gradually declining due to changes in lifestyle and the market availability of commercial spices. This study highlights the need to document and preserve ethnobotanical heritage related to wild aromatic herbs used as spices in the area of the Niš District, which benefits both health and culinary practices.

Jezik

engleski

srpski

Datum

2025

Licenca

Ovo delo je licencirano pod uslovima licence
Creative Commons CC BY 4.0 - Creative Commons Autorstvo 4.0 International License.

http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/legalcode

Predmet

Keywords: Origanum vulgare, Mentha spp., Thymus spp., spices, ethnobotany, Niš District

Deo kolekcije (1)

o:1347

Radovi Instituta za šumarstvo