Lucerne, known as a perennial plant of the legume family, is widely used in agriculture due to its unique properties. It serves as green manure, fodder, and honey-producing crop, as well as for decorative purposes. Lucerne is characterized by high yields of green mass — under proper care and irrigation, one hectare can produce up to 80-120 tons of green mass or 20-40 tons of hay. Due to symbiosis with nitrogen-fixing bacteria, it accumulates nitrogen in roots and stubble, improving soil fertility and making it an excellent predecessor for cereal crops and other cultures. Moreover, lucerne is an effective cover crop capable of restoring depleted soils. It improves soil structure, returns necessary nutrients, and suppresses weed and pest growth. This is especially important in intensive farming, where soil needs rest and recovery. There are many varieties of lucerne, but only some are suitable for use as cover crops, possessing specific beneficial properties. Besides agricultural applications, lucerne is valued in traditional medicine. Traditional Chinese medicine and Ayurvedic practitioners have used it to improve appetite and treat digestive tract diseases such as stomach and duodenal ulcers. Lucerne leaves are rich in minerals and nutrients, possess medicinal properties, help lower cholesterol levels, restore the body's alkaline balance, and prevent cardiovascular diseases. Thanks to these properties, lucerne is not only an important feed for animals but also a beneficial plant for humans.
