Integrating Narcissus-derived galanthamine production into traditional upland farming systems

Abstract Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a disorder associated with progressive degeneration of memory and cognitive function. Galantamine licenced treatment for AD but supplies the plant alkaloid that it produced from, galanthamine, are limited. This three-year system study tested potential to combine Narcissus -derived galanthamine production grassland-based ruminant production. Replicate plots permanent pasture were prepared without bulbs pseudonarcissus sown as lines into sward. Two different fertiliser regimes imposed. The above-ground green biomass N. was harvested in early spring yield determined. In second harvest year split-plot design implemented cut annually biennially. All subsequently grazed by ewes lambs animal performance recorded. Incorporation had no detrimental effects on health or sheep which pasture. There consistency rates yields. difference overall if biennially (1.64 vs. 1.75 kg galanthamine/ha annual combined vs biennial cuts respectively; s.e.d = 0.117 galanthamine/ha; ns). verified feasibility dual cropping approach producing plant-derived galanthamine.