The Effect of Cultivation Conditions on Sacha Inchi (Plukenetia volubilis L.) Seed Production and Oil Quality (Omega 3, 6, 9)

Abstract

Sacha Inchi (Plukenetia volubilis Linneo, Euphorbiaceae) is known as a Peruvian seed containing a high level of unsaturated fatty acids, such as α-linolenic acid (Omega-3), linoleic acid (Omega-6), and oleic acid (Omega-9). These essential fatty acids are important functional foods due to their benefits for human health. Considering its benefits, it is necessary to find the right cultivation conditions to develop Sacha Inchi in Indonesia, where it has not been widely cultivated. This study aimed to determine the adaptability of Sacha Inchi to different cultivation conditions and the effects of these conditions on seed production and oil quality. Sacha Inchi plants were cultivated under three different cultivation conditions (open area, mixed cultures, and agroforestry) and the seeds were harvested monthly to determine the seed production and oil quality. The results showed that seed production in the open area was higher than in other conditions. The highest oil yield from monthly harvesting was found in mixed cultures. Interestingly, the level of Omega-3 content in the agroforestry condition was higher compared to other conditions. The level of Omega-6 and Omega-9 content in the open area was higher than in mixed cultures and agroforestry. However, the content of unsaturated fatty acids in the three different cultivation conditions was not significantly different, being 91.88% in the open area, 92.53% in mixed cultures, and 92.97% for agroforestry. In conclusion, the cultivation of Sacha Inchi under open areas is recommended due to its seed productivity which will affect the total oil production.