Gathering and processing of lyme-grass (Elymus arenarius L.) in Iceland: an ethnohistorical account |
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Authors: | Garðar Guðmundsson |
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Institution: | 1. National Museum of Iceland, Sueurg?tu 41, IS-101, Reykjavik, Iceland
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Abstract: | Lyme-grass (Elymus arenarius L.) was harvested and processed for human consumption along the southern coast of Iceland until the beginning of this century.
The origin of this exploitation is not known, but lyme-grass may have been gathered for this purpose already in the Viking
Age. The system of processing lyme-grass is complex, and special implements and facilities are needed. The method is similar
to traditional processing methods for cereals. Extensive research on Icelandic ethnographic observations was undertaken to
establish the exact methods and sequence of operations that was involved. On the basis of this, a set of archaeological experiments
was performed to test the viability of the processing techniques outlined in the written records. A model describing the harvesting
and processing of lyme-grass is presented. |
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Keywords: | Elymus arenarius L Wild foods Ethnobotany Grain processing Iceland |
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