Abstract:

Alfalfa is one of the oldest cultivated crops in the world. It has been planting and using for a very long time in China. Based on the study of historical documents on the cultivation and usage of alfalfa in ancient China, this article summarized the following conclusions: First, alfalfa was introduced to China by Zhang Qian in Han dynasty, and it was used as ornamental plants and forage for horses planting in the court in Chang’an. After that, planting alfalfa was gradually expanded to other areas in ancient China. Second, people in ancient China had already had a complete set of methods on alfalfa cultivation. They also concluded many experiences on mixed cultivation with food crops, forest and grass intercropping, and improving saline-alkali soil, and so on. Third, there were three major aspects of the usage of alfalfa in ancient China: 1, alfalfa was widely used in feeding livestock. For instance, the technology of grinding alfalfa into powder for livestock in grassless season had been developed in the ancient time. 2, alfalfa was an important food in famine time in the history as its leaves and seeds can be eaten and cooked in various ways. 3, alfalfa is also an significant traditional Chinese medication. Both aboveground and underground parts of alfalfa can be used as medicine. It is very helpful for curing diseases. The above conclusions may inspire people broadening their thinking and provide references for improving the modern alfalfa industry.