Medicinal Plants
H. Taghizadeh Baghchejooghi; S. Alizadeh Salteh; M. Matloobi
Abstract
Introduction
Marigold (Calendula officinalis) is an herbaceous plant belonging to the family Asteraceae. C. officinalis is always one of the most widely used medicinal plants and is widely cultivated for its extract in traditional and herbal medicine especially in Iran. Marigold extract has medicinal ...
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Introduction
Marigold (Calendula officinalis) is an herbaceous plant belonging to the family Asteraceae. C. officinalis is always one of the most widely used medicinal plants and is widely cultivated for its extract in traditional and herbal medicine especially in Iran. Marigold extract has medicinal effects such as wound healing, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, immune stimulating, anti-tumor and anti-AIDS. To achieve the higher yield and quality in this plant, it’s necessary to have enough nutrition. Fulvic acid stimulates plant metabolism, increases enzyme activity as a catalyst in plant respiration, and increases nutrient efficiency and cell pore permeability. On the other hand, triacanthanol is a type of alcohol with a 30-carbon chain and is found naturally in plant epicotyledonous waxes. The use of triacanthanol increases plant dry weight and reduces the content of sugar, amino acids and protein.
Materials and Methods
In order to evaluate the effect of fulvic acid and triacantanol and their interactions on some characteristics of C. officinalis, a factorial experiment with 16 treatments and 3 replications was conducted at greenhouse. Experimental treatments consisted of four levels of fulvic acid (0, 0.5, 1, 2 mg / l) as the first factor and four levels of triacantanol (0, 10-5, 5.5×10-4, 10-4 M) as the second factor. Treatments were sprayed on the plant three times in the form of foliar spray. Physiological factors were measured during the growing season and after applying the treatments. Finally, at the end of the growing season, plants were sampled to measure the parameters. Yield and fresh and dry weight (at flowering stage and in the form of fully opened flowers), shoot height with a ruler, number of leaves and leaf area were measured with a leaf gauge. Number of flowers by counting the number of flowers from the time of the first flower to the end of the experiment without taking into account the unopened buds, the time required for flowering (early flowering, late flowering) in terms of days by noting the date of the day At the time of emergence, the first flower in each treatment was examined. Acetone at 100% was used to measure photosynthetic pigments (chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, total chlorophyll and carotenoids) and their absorption was measured at 470, 644.8 and 661.6 nm by spectrophotemeter. The measurement of total phenol was performed using a covalent folate reagent in the absorption spectrum of 765 nm in a spectrophotometer. The flavonoid content of all extracts was measured by aluminum chloride colorimetric method. The absorbance of the samples was read at 415 nm by spectrophotometer. Quercetin was used as the standard to obtain the calibration curve. The flavonoid content of the samples was reported as mg quercetin per 100 g fresh plant weight. DPPH free radical scavenger was used to measure antioxidant activity. The absorbance of the samples was read at 517 nm using a spectrophotometer.
Results and Discussion
Based on the results of this study, it was observed that the foliar application of 10-4 M triacantanol led to an increase in flower yield, leaf area, fresh weight, dry weight, number of flowers, flower height, antioxidant activity, and flavonoid content. On the other hand, the application of 10-5 M triacantanol increased the percentage of evergreen dry matter and phenol content more than the other concentrations. Among the different concentrations of fulvic acid tested, the concentration of 2 mg/l showed the greatest positive impact on the number of leaves, leaf area, fresh weight, dry weight, dry matter percentage, antioxidant activity, and total flavonoid content. Overall, the application of 10-4 M triacantanol and 2 mg/l fulvic acid as a leaf treatment significantly improved most of the measured traits in comparison to the control treatment. It is worth noting that plants treated with 2 mg/l fulvic acid flowered later than the other treatments, and there was a significant interaction between triacanthanol and fulvic acid on flower yield and height.
Conclusion
The results of this study in response to the use of the triacantanol and fulvic acid indicate that the use of these two compounds in foliar spraying can be very useful to achieve sustainable production and achieve organic farming. Triacanthanol promotes growth by regulating many of the genes involved in photosynthesis The use of fulvic acid increases the permeability of the cell membrane and better penetration of nutrients from the membrane. Also, soil permeability to nitrogen uptake increases by plant roots.
Medicinal Plants
T. Baeradeh; H. Arouiee; M. Naseri; M. Mamarabadi
Abstract
Introduction
Fruits and vegetables are perishable due to high humidity and biological activity after harvesting (breathing, transpiration and biochemical activities). Covering fruits with antimicrobial compounds, while being edible and safe for consumers, is an effective solution to prevent the spoilage ...
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Introduction
Fruits and vegetables are perishable due to high humidity and biological activity after harvesting (breathing, transpiration and biochemical activities). Covering fruits with antimicrobial compounds, while being edible and safe for consumers, is an effective solution to prevent the spoilage of fruits and increase their shelf life. In developing countries, packaging, storage and transportation technologies for these products have not been developed yet. One of the cheap and high-performance methods to increase the shelf life of fruit and maintain its quality during the storage period is to use a coating on the fruit. The purpose of coating application is to reduce water loss, slow aging, polish and better marketing. In addition to improving quality, coating can protect the fruit from pathogens and contamination. Edible coatings create a thin layer on the surface of the food that are effective and eco-friendly alternatives and maintain the firmness of fresh fruits and vegetables. The main components of edible coatings are natural polysaccharides, including starch, cellulose, pectin, alginates and chitosan. These coatings apply by spraying, immersion or rubbing. The use of essential oils and other extracts of medicinal plants has been evaluated in the development of edible coatings.
Adding Ziziphora tenuior L. essential oil to food has been considered as an antioxidant and antimicrobial compound. Directly use of essential oils for fruits and vegetable shelf life has some limitations due to low solubility in water, high vapor pressure and physical and chemical instability. One of the ways to reduce these limitations is the nanoencapsulation of essential oil as. Applications of nano technology to the development of edible coatings (included various nanosystems, including polymeric nanoparticles, nanoemulsions), efforts to control the release of essential oils. Aloe vera gel, which is extracted from the inner parts of the leaves, is clear, odorless, completely healthy and environmentally friendly and can replace the coverings used after harvesting fruits. This is a polysaccharide gel, it dissolves easily in water and has advantages such as preserving the aromatic substances inside the fruit, covering the wound and cuts and it is possible to add substances such as vitamins and essential oils to this gel. Due to the antibacterial properties of aloe vera, adding aloe vera gel to edible coatings can increase the antibacterial properties of this biodegradable coating. On the other hand, using nano technology can increase the efficiency, consistency and better quality of food coatings.
Materials and Methods
The aim of the present study was to prepare and produce an oral coating of nanoecapsule containing Ziziphora tenuior L. essential oil. The components of the nanocapsule of Aloe vera gel was water, toewin and Ziziphora tenuior L. essential oil. Fresh Aloe vera leaves were used to prepare gel. Zeta-average diameter, particle size distribution, scattering index (PDI) and zeta potential (particle surface charge) were measured. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) imaging was used to evaluate the morphology of the nanocapsule. The stability of produced nanocapsule was evaluated by measuring the particle size changes for 3 months.
Results and Discussion
21 compounds were identified in the essential oil of Ziziphora tenuior. The main and important constituents of Ziziphora tenuior L. essential oil were Pulegone, Menthofuran and 1,8-Cineole. The results showed that the particle size of nanocapsule containing essential oil was 84.46 nm and zeta potential was -16.02 mV. The results of transmission electron microscope (TEM) photos showed that the size of the particles is less than 200 nanometers and the shape of the particles is almost spherical. The outer surface of the capsules is completely smooth and uniform. Stability studies of particle size and zeta potential for 3 months showed that nanocapsule containing essential oils had good stability. In this formulation, the zeta potential was about -16 mV, which is due to the non-ionic parts of the surfactant on the surface of the nanocapsule, which contributes to the repulsion force and caused the stability of the size of the nanocapsules. In order to determine the amount of essential oil in the nanocapsule, spectrophotometric method was used. The percentage of essential oil in nanocapsule was 83.25%.
Conclusion
Nanoencapsulation of essential is one of the ways to reduce the limitations of essential oil aplication. In the present study, a nancapsule with natural and biodegradable materials (Aloe vera gel) containing Ziziphora tenuior L. essential oil was prepared and the results showed that Ziziphora tenuior L. essential oil was successfully encapsulated in Aloe vera gel. In general, the results of the present study showed that the nanocapsule of Aloe vera gel is a suitable carrier for Ziziphora tenuior L. essential oil and can be used as an oral coating to preserve fruits and vegetables.
Medicinal Plants
M. Sohrabei; D. Samsampoor; A. Bagheri
Abstract
Introduction Medicinal plants have historically been one of the main sources of medicine and pharmacy in most parts of the world, that among these plants, we can mention the species Citrullus colocynthis L. Schrad. Cell suspension culture is a widely used method to increase the rate of secondary ...
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Introduction Medicinal plants have historically been one of the main sources of medicine and pharmacy in most parts of the world, that among these plants, we can mention the species Citrullus colocynthis L. Schrad. Cell suspension culture is a widely used method to increase the rate of secondary metabolites. The secondary metabolites of plants, are species compounds often produced during a certain period of growth and development and have important ecological functions in plants. They induce the ability of plants to cope with herbivores, microbial pathogens, adsorbents, and seed-spreading organisms. Also, due to the role of fungal elicitors to increase the rate of secondary metabolites in plants, in this study, we studied the role of the endophytes Alternaria solani. Fusarium sp. and Setosphaeria rostrata extracted from Citrullus colocynthis L. Schrad were collected from different regions of Hormozgan province as bio-elicitors in a cell suspension culture medium.Materials and Methods The study was performed based on a factorial experiment in a completely randomized design with two factors (the first factor had two levels of different hormonal composition and the second factor had eight levels of endophytic fungal extracts) with three replications in the biotechnology laboratory of Hormozgan University and the results were analyzed statistically using SAS 9.4 software. To produce the callus and culture of cell suspension under hormone treatment, watermelon seeds were first disinfected for a period of time and then the seeds were transferred to a culture medium containing MS and placed in a suitable incubator for seed germination. After germination and leaflet production, pieces with an area of approximately 1 mm2 were separated from the primary leaves and for callus formation were transferred to Petri dishes containing MS medium (3% sucrose, 0.8% agar), with two levels of 1mg 2,4-D + 1mg BA and 1mg 2,4-D + 1mg kin and placed in a suitable incubator for three weeks. Three fungal endophytes Alternaria solani, Setosphaeria rostrata, and Fusarium sp. were transferred separately to PDA (Potato Dextrose Agar) culture medium to prepare the bio elicitor and placed at 30 ° C for 7 days. From 7-day cultures, 1 cm2 of mycelium was isolated and inoculated into 150 ml of PDB (Potato Dextrose Broth) culture medium. The cultured cells were stored at 30 ° C in a 500 ml Erlenmeyer flask and placed on a shaker for 7 days at 120 rpm. The fungal cells were isolated and dried at 65 ° C for 24 hours. The powder from the dried cells was dissolved in water (10 g / l) and autoclaved for 20 minutes at 121 ° C. The extracts of these cells were finally used as a bio elicitorto study the change in the number of secondary metabolites. After that, the growth rate of cells in cell suspension culture was measured before and after the application of fungal extract. Parameters such as total phenol content, antioxidant activity, and flavonoids were also studied.Results and DiscussionThe results showed that the treatment combinations of 1mg 2,4-D + 1mg BA and inoculation of the plant with three fungi, the amount of phenol and flavonoids increased by 62.11% and 49.18%, respectively, compared to the control and at the levels of 1% and 5% probability were significant and was observed in the combination of hormonal treatment 1mg 2.4-D + 1mg Kin and inoculation of three fungi, the amount of antioxidant production increased by 62.78% compared to the control and at the levels of 1% probability was significant. The results indicated that the cell extraction of the fungal endophyte Alternaria solani, Fusarium sp., and Setosphaeria rostrata under condition hormonal treatment can be used as an effective stimulant in increasing the amount of secondary metabolites (phenol, flavonoids and antioxidant) of Citrullus colocynthis L. Schrad. Conclusion It was revealed that by adding the elicitor to the culture medium, cell growth was increased. The results showed that the combination of three types of endophytic fungi Alteynaria solani, Setosphaeria rostrata and Fusarium sp. led to a significant increase in cell dry weight compared with the control treatment. Also, an increase in cell growth was observed even when a fungal extract was used alone. The amount of metabolites in cells treated with fungal extracts (fungal elicitors) was significantly higher than metabolites produced in the control. According to the results of this experiment, using a combination of three fungal extracts was the best treatment to increase the metabolite production in the culture of cell suspension of Citrullus colocynthis L. Schrad.
Medicinal Plants
M. Ghojavand; P. Kasraie; H. Tohidimoghadam; M. Naseri; H. Larigani
Abstract
Introduction
Satureja hortensis L. is an annual herbaceous plant of the mint family that has numerous raised or creeping stems or arched stems with a height of 10 to 30 cm. The height of this plant reaches a maximum of 60 cm. The stems and branches are usually covered with hairs. The leaves are ...
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Introduction
Satureja hortensis L. is an annual herbaceous plant of the mint family that has numerous raised or creeping stems or arched stems with a height of 10 to 30 cm. The height of this plant reaches a maximum of 60 cm. The stems and branches are usually covered with hairs. The leaves are opposite, have short or almost no petioles. The leaves are opposite, the petioles are short or almost without petioles, there are many small spots on the surface of the leaf called the tuber, which contains the essential oil. Knowledge of environmental, plant and agro-factors play an important role in the success of medicinal plants. One of the factors affecting the growth and development and production of active ingredients of medicinal and aromatic plants is water, the lack of which has a greater effect on reducing production than other inputs. Drought stress is an important global constraint on agricultural production and food security. Recently, there has been a growing interest in reducing the use of chemical fertilizers and exploring alternative methods for producing high-quality crops. This is particularly important in arid and semi-arid regions like most parts of Iran, where soil nutrient levels are often low. The use of biofertilizers can help strengthen plants and promote sustainable crop production. The objective of this study was to examine the impact of salicylic acid foliar application, Mycorrhiza-Azotobacter bio-fertilizers, and drought stress on the morphological and physiological characteristics of summer savory, a medicinal plant.
Materials and Methods
This experiment was conducted to evaluate some traits of summer savory in response to biological fertilizers, salicylic acid and drought stress in Zamanabad village of Rey city (Tehran province) during 2018 and 2017. This experiment was conducted using a randomized complete block design with three replications, as a factorial split plot. The main factor was irrigation, with three levels including soil moisture potential (as a control), potential of -5.5 atmospheres as medium stress, and potential of -10 atmospheres as severe stress. Sub-factors included four levels of biological fertilizers: No inoculation, seed inoculation with Azotobacter strain, seed inoculation with Mycorrhiza, and concomitant use of Azotobacter + Mycorrhiza. Salicylic acid was also considered at two levels: no foliar application and foliar application with a concentration of 0.6 mM. The following plant characteristics were studied: plant height, root dry weight, shoot dry weight, total chlorophyll content, proline content, percentage, and essential oil yield. At full flowering stage, the plants were harvested and placed in an oven at 75 ° C for 24 hours to measure the dry weight of roots and shoots. 10 g of leaves and flowering twigs from each replicate were transferred to the laboratory to measure physiological traits. SAS 9.4 software was used to perform a two-year combined analysis of variance for the recorded traits. To ensure the uniformity of variance of errors, the Bartlett uniformity test of variance was performed based on the mean squares and the degree of error freedom in two years. Mean traits were also compared using the least significant difference test (LSD) at the 5% probability level.
Results and Discussion
The results showed that the effect of drought stress, fertilizer and salicylic acid treatments on the studied traits of plant height and shoot and root dry weight, chlorophyll content, percentage and yield of essential oil and proline content were significant. Salicylic acid and the combined application of Azotobacter + mycorrhiza increased plant height, plant dry weight and root, as well as increased chlorophyll content, proline, percentage and yield of safflower essential oil under drought stress. According to the results of this experiment, it can be argued that the response of plant height, plant dry weight and essential oil yield to the increase in drought stress levels was negative, but the root dry weight, total chlorophyll, proline and essential oil percentage were the opposite response. The highest amount of these traits was observed in severe stress conditions and the combined application of bio-fertilizers (Azotobacter + Mycorrhiza) and salicylic acid 0.6 mM had a positive and increasing effect compared to other levels of bio-fertilizer and salicylic acid in The studied traits of the present study were observed.
Conclusion
According to the results of this experiment, the application of bio-fertilizers and foliar application of salicylic acid causes dehydration and dehydration, as well as the presence of essential oils, nutrients, and the quality of summer safflower under drought stress.
Medicinal Plants
R. Raei; V. Akbarpour; M. A. Bahmanyar
Abstract
Introduction Fertilizer management is one of the main factors in achieving sustainable agriculture. Therefore, the integrated agricultural system recommends the use of organic matter along with the optimal use of chemical fertilizers. This method is a balanced way to improve the physical and ...
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Introduction Fertilizer management is one of the main factors in achieving sustainable agriculture. Therefore, the integrated agricultural system recommends the use of organic matter along with the optimal use of chemical fertilizers. This method is a balanced way to improve the physical and chemical properties of the soil, which leads to improved growth and increased plant yield. Organic fertilizers, especially livestock manures, have higher levels of organic matter than chemical fertilizers, and can be considered as sources of nutrients, especially nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. One of these organic fertilizers is poultry manure, which in addition to having macro and micro elements (manganese, iron, copper, and boron) is one of the cheapest fertilizers compared to other fertilizers used. It is also richer in terms of nitrogen than other animal fertilizers. Soil fertility is the factor that change the amount of active substances and essential oils. Micronutrients such as zinc, although needed in small amounts by plants, play an important role in plant growth and development. The application of zinc sulfate fertilizer improved the quantitative and qualitative attributes of basil, peppermint, sage, and rosemary. Researchers stated that the application of a combination of chemical fertilizers and poultry manure has increased the yield of garlic essential oil. Therefore, in recent years, integrated plant nutrition management has been discussed. Integrated plant nutrition management is based on the simultaneous application of organic, chemical, and biological fertilizers. Because organic fertilizers alone can’t provide the needs of high-yielding plants. Combined application of organic, chemical, and biological fertilizers can improve the physical and chemical conditions of the soil and increase organic carbon and nutrients. Savory is an aromatic medicinal plant from the mint family. This plant has a lot of essential oils and is very important in the food, pharmaceutical, and health industries. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of poultry manure and zinc sulfate in the cultivation of savory.Materials and Methods The present experiment was performed as a factorial in a completely randomized design with 3 replications. The factors consisted of poultry manure with four levels (0, 3, 6, and 9 t.ha-1) and the second factor zinc sulfate with four levels (0, 50, 100 and 150 mg.kg-1 soil).Results and Discussion According to the obtained results, the effect of poultry manure, zinc sulfate, and their interaction on most of the studied traits was significant. The highest height was observed in the treatment of poultry manure of 9 t.ha-1 + zinc sulfate in 100 mg. kg-1 soil, which showed an increase of 79.26% compared to the control, and the lowest height belonged to the control treatment. The total chlorophyll in the chicken manure treatment of 6 t.ha-1 + zinc sulfate in 150 mg. kg-1 had a significant increase compared to the control. The highest amount of leaf nitrogen was obtained in the treatment of poultry manure of 9 t.ha-1 + 50 mg.kg-1 with an increase of 82.03% compared to the control. Zinc element was observed with a 222.75% increase in poultry manure treatment of 9 t.ha-1 + 150 mg.kg-1. Poultry manure treatment of 6 tons per hectare + 150 mg.kg-1 with 261.53% increase compared to the control contained the highest percentage of essential oil.Conclusion The results of the study showed that the use of combined ratios of poultry organic fertilizer and zinc sulfate has been effective in improving vegetative attributes, available plant elements, and essential oil content.
Medicinal Plants
M. Moradi; H. Nastari Nasrabadi; K. Ghasemi Bezdi
Abstract
Introduction The Genus Thymus is one of the most important genera of the Lamiaceae family. According to Jalas (1971), Thymus is divided into eight sections: Micantes, Mastichina, Piperella, Teucrioides, Pseudothymbra, Thymus, Hyphodromi, and Serpyllum. About 18 species exist in some areas of Iran ...
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Introduction The Genus Thymus is one of the most important genera of the Lamiaceae family. According to Jalas (1971), Thymus is divided into eight sections: Micantes, Mastichina, Piperella, Teucrioides, Pseudothymbra, Thymus, Hyphodromi, and Serpyllum. About 18 species exist in some areas of Iran and most of them belong to Serpyllum Section and kotschiani Subsection. Chromosomal information is an important key for taxonomy, phylogeny, evolution, genetics and breeding in thyme. Therefore, this work was carried out to study the cytogenetic characteristics of genus Thymus belonging to the Subsection Kotschyani for breeding purposes and taxonomy.Materials and MethodsSeeds were collected from 5 wild populations and germinated on wet filter paper at 20 oC. One cm long roots were pretreated with 8-hydroxyquinolin and then washed in distilled water and fixed in carnoy solution for 24 hours. Hydrochloric acid (1N) was applied for 7 min to hydrolyze the roots. Staining was done by orcein for 24 h at room temperature. Stained roots squashed in one drop of 45% acetic acid and examined by a ZEISS Axiophot compound microscope. Cells in metaphase stage were photographed with a D450; Canon Inc. Japan digital camera. Ten well prepared metaphasic cells were selected and some chromosomal characteristics such as total chromosomal length (TL), long arm length (L), short arm length (S), the arm ratio (AR) [LA/SA], and centromeric index (CI), were measured using Micro Measure ver. 3.3 software. The following karyological parameters were determined: total chromosome form (TF%), intrachromosomal asymmetry index (A1) and interchromosomal asymmetry index (A2). Karyotypic characteristics have been determined using the symmetry classes of Stebbins (SC). Karyotype formula was determined from chromosome morphology based on centromere position in accordance with the classification of Levan.Results and Discussion This study reports the chromosome number and meiotic behavior of 31 populations belonging to 8 species of Thymus Subsect. kotschyani from Iran. In most species of this subsection, the base number of chromosome x = 15 and two diploid and tetraploid ploidy levels with chromosome number of 2n = 30 and 60 were observed. Only in T. migricus species, the base number of chromosome x = 14 was reported with two levels of diploid and tetraploid ploidy and chromosome numbers of 2n= 28 and 56. The chromosomes were mostly metacentric (m) or sub-metacentric (sm) in all species Among the various species with basic number of x= 15, the highest percentage of TF and the lowest amount of A1 were observed in populations belonging to T. eriocalyx (T7) indicating that this species has the most symmetric karyotypes. The lowest percentage of TF and the highest amount of A1 are in population of T. lancifolious (27) and T. fedtschenkoi (T28) species; this shows that the species has the most asymmetric karyotype among the species of this subsection. The highest amount of A2 was observed in T. eriocalyx (T7) species, indicated the asymmetry between chromosomes and chromosomal length. The difference in the number of chromosomes, ploidy levels and karyotype asymmetry in the populations and different species may be related to different environmental conditions in their habitat, pollination system (cross pollination) or polyploidy (Aneuploidy) in this genus.Conclusion The results showed that basic chromosome number in most species is 15 (x= 15). Two ploidy levels (diploid and tetraploid) were observed among different species. Chromosomes in most species, were metacentric and sub-metacentric. Based on intra- chromosomal symmetry (A1 and TF) T. eriocalyx species (T7) has the most symmetric and most primitive karyotype and the species T. lancifolius (T27) and T. fedtschenkoi (T28) have the most complete and the most asymmetric karyotypes. Also based on inter- chromosomal symmetry, (A2) T. eriocalyx (T) species has the most asymmetric karyotype.
Medicinal Plants
M. Khodabandeh; M. Azizi; A. Balandary; H. Arouiee
Abstract
Introduction
Barberries are a broad class of spiny evergreen or deciduous shrubs belonging to the Berberidaceae family. They are of great importance due to their different parts' nutritional and medicinal properties and their ornamental applications. Genus Berberis, the biggest genus ...
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Introduction
Barberries are a broad class of spiny evergreen or deciduous shrubs belonging to the Berberidaceae family. They are of great importance due to their different parts' nutritional and medicinal properties and their ornamental applications. Genus Berberis, the biggest genus in Berberidaceae, includes more than 660 species. Barberry grows in Asia and Europe and has been used extensively as a medicinal plant in traditional medicine. In Iranian traditional medicine, several properties, such as antibacterial, antipyretic, antipruritic and antiarrhythmic, have been reported with unknown mechanisms of action. Incredible structural diversity among barberries' active components makes them a valuable source of novel therapeutic compounds. Seedless barberry (Berberis integerrima 'Asperma') is one of Iran's valuable indigenous medicinal plants. Common asexual propagation of this plant over the years and consequently low genetic diversity in populations of the seedless barberry restricts selection outcomes in breeding programs. Utilizing the indigenous wild genotypes of the barberry genus, which are easily able to cross-pollinate, is one of the best methods to increase genetic diversity. Accordingly, several wild seedy barberry genotypes were identified from all over Iran, collected and established in a collection in Mashhad; then, 16 genotypes were selected and their physical properties were studied.
Materials and Methods
In this study, ripe fruits of sixteen unique genotypes (i.e., Iranian seedless barberry and fifteen seedy genotypes) were harvested in October- November 2015 and kept in a refrigerator in order to measure some of their physical properties in fresh fruits (berry dimension, 100-berry weight, juice content and color indices). For other properties, fruits were dried at room temperature. Fruit cluster length was measured by means of a ruler, the number of berries/cluster and the number of set/aborted seeds in berry by counting, berry dimensions by a digital caliper, weight of fresh and dried 100-berry, percentage of pulp and seed as well as fruit juice content by a scale with 0.001 accuracy. Moisture content was determined using an oven with 75 ºC temperature for 48 hours. Color indices, including L*, a* and b*, were measured using a portable colorimeter (Konica Minolta Chroma Meters CR-410). This study was performed using a completely randomized design with three replications. Data were analyzed by Minitab software version 16 using analysis of variance (ANOVA), and differences among means were determined for significance at p<0.05 using the Bonferroni test.
Results and Discussion
The results indicated significant differences among genotypes. Based on the results, cluster length ranged between 1.67cm (code 5-3) and 6.29 cm (code 10-1); moisture content was between 8.20% and 11.84% in genotypes 8-3 and 13-2, respectively. The fruit juice content range of the studied genotypes was between 51.22% and 71.87%. Genotype 2-1 had the highest dimension values and the highest 100-berry fresh weight (30.72g) and dry weight (10.00g) fruits. The lowest weights of 100-berry were related to 14-1 and seedless barberry. Genotypes 5-2 had the highest pulp percentage (98.17%) and the lowest seed percentage (1.50%) and 10-1 had the lowest pulp percentage (51.93%) and the highest seed percentage (48.07%). The highest number of set seeds (1.73) and the lowest number of aborted seeds (zero) were found in (10-1) and (14-2), respectively. Based on the results, seedless barberry had the lowest number of set seeds (0.00) and the highest number of aborted seeds (3.27). Regarding fruit color indices, genotypes showed significant variability from orange to brown and dark blue. Color indices L*, a* and b* ranged (from 22.83 to 38.13), (2.31 to 37.76) and (1.18 to 2.28), respectively.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it can be said that all genotypes have considerable variability in fruit traits (color, fruit dimensions, pulp/seed percentage, moisture content, etc.). Based on the result of this study, genotype 5-2 was the most similar genotype to seedless barberry. The seedless barberry populations have low genetic diversity due to asexual propagation through suckers over many years. Indigenous genotypes can be a valuable genetic resource for future breeding programs to improve the quantitative and qualitative characteristics of seedless barberry and introduce new cultivars of seedless barberry with different colors and consequently different nutritional- medicinal properties.
Medicinal Plants
S. Makhtoumi; Sh. Khoshbakht; A. A. Nourinia
Abstract
Introduction
Inefficient and excessive use of chemical fertilizers in agriculture has caused soil erosion and pollution of water resources and has also been effective in reducing the quality of crops. On the other hand, the use of beneficial soil microorganisms as bio-organic enhances soil fertility, ...
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Introduction
Inefficient and excessive use of chemical fertilizers in agriculture has caused soil erosion and pollution of water resources and has also been effective in reducing the quality of crops. On the other hand, the use of beneficial soil microorganisms as bio-organic enhances soil fertility, and results in healthier and richer nutritional needs is a further harvest away from ecosystem contamination. Increase crop in terms of quantity and quality without damaging the farm ecosystem, especially medicinal plants. Bio-fertilizers are the latest development in organic farming. They are also a gift from modern agricultural science that should replace chemical fertilizers on farms which play a vital role in maintaining long-term soil fertility and stability. Ocimum basilicuum is a grown aromatic and medicinal plant that is a leafy vegetable of the Labiatae family. This plant has different healing properties and is also used to flavor various food products due to its special taste. Therefore, in this study with the aim of providing a practical solution to reduce the use of artificial fertilizers and environmental pollution, the effect of vermicompost and biological fertilizers on the composition of secondary metabolites and growth of basil (Ocimum basilicuum) was studied.
Materials and Methods
This study was conducted in 2017-2018 to investigate the effects of vermicompost and biological fertilizers on some traits of basil (Ocimum basilicuum) in of Azadshahr in Golestan province. In this experiment, application of vermicompost at three levels (a1: no application, a2: application at a rate of 10% and a3: application at a rate of 20% by weight of soil) and application of biological fertilizers at three levels (b1: no application, b2: use of Bacillus subtillis, b3: use of natural element compounds) were examined. The experiment was carried out in a randomized complete block design with three replications in the exterior space as a pot culture. The alcoholic extract used in this study was performed by soaking. The amount of total phenol compounds was measured by the Folin Siocalto method and the total flavonoid content was measured by aluminum chloride colorimetric method. Data obtained from experiments using the software SAS Ver. 9.1 and comparison of means was performed using the least significant difference test (LSD). Excel software was also used to draw the graphs.
Results and Discussion
The results of analysis of variance showed that the application of vermicompost was significant on root fresh and dry weight, fresh and dry weight of stem, stem length, fresh and dry weight of leaves and leaf area. Also, the effect of biological fertilizers on root fresh weight and stem dry weight was significant. Comparison of means also showed that vermicompost 20% compared to control and vermicompost 10% in traits such as fresh weight of root (5.14), dry weight of root (7.25), fresh weight of stem (25.23), dry weight of stem (2.25), length stem (33.77), fresh weight of leaf (51.85), dry weight of leaf (8/08) and leaf area (75.13) had the highest values. No significant effect was observed between vermicompost and biological fertilizers. The maximum amount of total phenol in vermicompost treatments belonged to 20% vermicompost at 1.98 mg/g, and in biological fertilizers treatments to Probio96 at 1.96 mg/g. Also, the maximum levels of total flavonoids in plants treated with vermicompost were 20% and Probio 96 were 92.13 mg/g and 91.22 mg/g, respectively. The results show that vermicompost had the greatest effect on target organs such as leaf area, fresh and dry weight of basil leaves.
Conclusion
The trade and cultivation of medicinal and aromatic plants is an important part of agriculture. Medicinal and aromatic plants are the main source of known medicines. Therefore, obtaining methods to increase the yield and therapeutic indicators of medicinal plants is of particular importance. In the growth of medicinal plants and biomass production, the quality of raw materials used is important. Chemical fertilizers have several adverse effects on the environment and human health. These effects can include leaching and displacement of various soil layers, groundwater and surface water pollution, accumulation of heavy metals and nitrates, air pollution, acid rain, and chemical accumulation in plants, animals, and human tissues. According to the findings, it is generally recommended to use bio-fertilizers such as vermicompost and Probiot 96 as a suitable alternative to chemical fertilizers in plant nutrition to protect the environment, human health and the positive economic effects of medicinal plants
Medicinal Plants
M. Yaghobvand; H. Mumivand; M. R. Raji; A. Banan
Abstract
IntroductionThe aeroponic system is a promising technique for the future of agriculture, growing plants in an air or mist environment without the use of soil or an aggregate medium. In aeroponic, plants are suspended in a closed or semi-closed environment by spraying the plant's dangling roots and lower ...
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IntroductionThe aeroponic system is a promising technique for the future of agriculture, growing plants in an air or mist environment without the use of soil or an aggregate medium. In aeroponic, plants are suspended in a closed or semi-closed environment by spraying the plant's dangling roots and lower stem with an atomized or sprayed, nutrient-rich water solution (30). Increased aeration of nutrient solution delivers more oxygen to plant roots in aeroponic in compare to conventional hydroponic systems, stimulating growth and helping to prevent pathogen formation (1). Cultivation of medicinal plants under controlled conditions of aeroponic and hydroponic systems commercially provides a better result in terms of quality improvement, bioactivity and biomass production (5, 4).Mint (Mentha) is one of the most important genus of Lamiaceae family. Different species of the genus have high economic value, due to their active and aromatic substances and are used as raw materials in food, cosmetics, health, beverage and pharmaceutical industries. M. piperita, M. spicata and M. suaveolens are the most common and popular species of the genus for cultivation. M. aquatica is also a perennial plant of the genus that is cultivated in Europe, North and Northwest Africa and Southwest Asia (2). Aeroponic system is more cost effective than other systems. Because of the reduced volume of solution throughput, less water and fewer nutrients are needed in the system at any given time compared to other nutrient delivery systems. However, due to lack of research and sufficient technical information, the use of aeroponic system is not common among farmers and greenhouse owners. In addition, many tips are not yet scientifically known about the cultivation of different plant species in this system (4). Despite the benefits of aeroponics, no research has been previously conducted on the cultivation of different species of mint in this system. Therefore, the present study was conducted with the aim of investigation of growth, yield and morpho-physiological characteristics of five mint species in the aeroponic system.Methods and MethodsThis study was conducted in greenhouses of faculty of Agriculture and Natural Resources of Lorestan University in 2020. The experiment was performed as a split plot design. Mentha species (including M. aquatica, M. pulegium, M. spicata, M. suaveolens and M. piperita) were considered as the main plot and harvest time (first and second harvests) was used as sub-plot. In each experimental block, one row (with ten plants) of five mint species was planted. In the early stages of growth, plants were fed with half Hoagland nutrient solution and then with complete Hoagland solution. Finally, morphological and physiological traits and some biochemical characteristics of plants were measured. After harvesting the first batch of plants and in order to better evaluation of species in the aeroponics system, all studied traits were measured about two months after the first harvest. Analysis of variance was performed based on the experimental design using SAS software. The comparison of means was also done with the least significant difference (LSD) test at the level of 5%.Results and DiscussionThe results showed that M. spicata and M. suaveolens had the highest leaf to stem ratio. The highest stem dry weight and plant height were related to M. pulegium. While, the highest leaf area, leaf fresh and dry weight, stem fresh and dry weight, stolon fresh and dry weight, shoot fresh and dry weight, total plant dry weight and relative water content were related to M. aquatic, followed by M. piperita. In addition, M. piperita had shown the highest fresh root weight. The highest amount of carotenoid and chlorophyll, photosynthesis rate and CO2 under the stomata was obtained in M. piperita. In this experiment, most of the yield-attributes traits including leaf area, leaf fresh and dry weight, root fresh weight, shoot fresh weight and total plant dry weight, as well as relative water content and photosynthesis rate were higher in the second harvest than the first one.ConclusionAll studied species in this experiment were successfully growth in the aeroponic system. Due to high water use efficiency, no need for soil and high crop production, mint cultivation in the aeroponic system can be a healthy and profitable alternative to in soil cultivation approach. According to the results of the present study, M. aquatica has shown higher performance than other species in terms of the yield attributes traits (including leaf number, leaf area, fresh and dry weight of plant, fresh and dry weight of shoots and fresh and dry weight of leaves). Among the other species, the highest shoot dry weight and plant dry weight was obtained by M. piperita. Finally, the high potential of M. aquatica and M. piperita for cultivation in the aeroponic system can be concluded.
Medicinal Plants
Z. Izadi; A. Biabani; H. Sabouri; B. Bahreininejad; A. Qolizadeh
Abstract
Introduction
Datura stramonium L. is one of the medicinal plants that have a special role in the pharmaceutical industry due to its alkaloid compounds. Datura is one of the most important medicinal species that is a rich source of alkaloid compounds. Important phytochemical compounds in Datura, especially ...
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Introduction
Datura stramonium L. is one of the medicinal plants that have a special role in the pharmaceutical industry due to its alkaloid compounds. Datura is one of the most important medicinal species that is a rich source of alkaloid compounds. Important phytochemical compounds in Datura, especially alkaloids, have been considered by the pharmaceutical industry. Datura (Datura stramonium L.) is an annual plant of the Solanaceae family, which is native to North America and is found in abundance in the coastal areas of northern Iran from Astara to eastern Mazandaran. Important phytochemical compounds in tattoos, especially alkaloids, have been considered by the pharmaceutical industry. Tropane alkaloids are one of the most important compounds in plants of the Solanaceae family and the anticholinergic effects of these compounds have made their use common in medicine. Important tropane alkaloids include hyoscyamine, ascopolamine, and atropine in D. stramonium. Plant growth is a set of specific biochemical and physiological processes that interact with each other and are affected by environmental factors such as temperature, light intensity, etc. that are affected by the date of planting. In the meantime, analyzing the amounts of photosynthetic pigments is a way to justify and interpret the plant's reactions to different environmental conditions during the growing period, through which it is possible to transfer and accumulate photosynthetic products. Due to the importance of D. stramonium and its widespread use in the pharmaceutical industry, Since Datura plant has not been adequately studied in the literature, the purpose of investigating three different planting date and planting density levels in this plant is to determine their proper values which increase the alkaloids and photosynthetic pigments, resulting in grain growth and yield increment.
Materials and Methods
This research during two consecutive years (1397-1397 and 1397-1398) in Shahid Fozveh research station affiliated to Isfahan Agricultural Research and Training Center and Natural Resources located 25 km west of Isfahan (Latitude: 32°36′37″ N, Longitude: 51°26′52″ E . 1612 m above sea level), which according to the Gauchen division has a mild semi-desert climate. The experiment was performed as a factorial experiment in the form of randomized complete blocks with three replications. Treatments included three densities (6, 10 and 14) plants per square meter and planting date in autumn and spring. Autumn planting of D. stramonium for the first year of the experiment was done on 3 January and in the second year on 30 December. In the spring planting of D. stramonium, due to the long growing season, in order to be productive during the growing season, first the seed of the plant was planted in the planting trays and then in the 3 to 4 leaf stage the seedlings were transferred to the main land. In both years of testing, the seeds were sown on the date of spring planting in March. Field operations including plowing, disc, leveling, preparation and preparation of atmosphere and ridges were carried out in the field. According to different fertilizer levels and density levels, each replication included 9 experimental plots. The length of each plot was 5 m and its width was 3 m, which included 5 rows with a distance of 60 cm. The distances of the plants on the ridge were considered as 15, 20 and 33 cm 33, respectively, according to the densities (6, 10 and 14 plants per square meter). The distance between the replicates was 1 m and the distance between the plots from each other was considered a planting line. The data were analyzed using SAS software version 9.4. The means were compared with LSD test at 5% level and graphs were drawn using EXCEL software version 2010.
Conclusion
According to the results, the density of 6 plants per hectare on the date of autumn planting improved seed yield and increased hyoscyamine and alkaloids. In fact, the density of 6 plants per square meter in this study increased grain yield and the amount of hyoscyamine and ascopolamine. At low plant densities in this study, including densities of 6 and 10 plants per square meter, the amount of photosynthetic pigments increased. Also, maintaining the amount of chlorophyll in young leaves causes a delay in the aging process and increases the durability of the leaf surface, which will have a significant effect on the transfer of photosynthetic material to the seed. More and slower nourishing material is transferred to the grain, so the grain filling period will be longer. The results show that by selecting proper levels of plant density and planting date as two of the most important crop management practices, the number of tropane alkaloids in Datura as one of the important active ingredients in the pharmaceutical industry increases.
Medicinal Plants
Kh. Ahmadi; H. Omidi; M. Amini; E. Soltani
Abstract
Introduction
Kelussia odoratissima Mozaff is a native species of Iran which is a rare and endangered species. It grows as a wild in cold and mountainous bioclimatic and is used in traditional medicine to treat various diseases such as cardiovascular disease, gastric ulcer, respiratory and intestinal ...
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Introduction
Kelussia odoratissima Mozaff is a native species of Iran which is a rare and endangered species. It grows as a wild in cold and mountainous bioclimatic and is used in traditional medicine to treat various diseases such as cardiovascular disease, gastric ulcer, respiratory and intestinal inflammation. The change of status from dormancy to germination can be eliminated by using some treatments in accordance with the natural conditions of the mother base habitat. However, some physiological needs of dormant seeds can be met by scratching (mechanical and chemical), washing in running water, dry storage, cold and humid conditions, light, smoke, and plant growth regulators. The aim of this study was to investigate different strategies including pretreatment, leaching and constant germination temperature on seed germination characteristics and Kelussia seedling growth.
Materials and Methods
The experiment was conducted in Petri dishes at Seed Technology Laboratory of Agricultural Sciences Faculty of Shahed University. K. odoratissima Mozaff seeds were collected from their natural habitat in Fereydounshahr, Isfahan province in 2019.
This study was performed in the Crop Physiology and Seed Technology Laboratories of Shahed University, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, from 23.09.2019 to 22.11.2019. The cultivation was in Petridish at constant germination temperatures after priming and leaching. The experiment was performed as a factorial experiment in a completely randomized design with three replications. Each replication included 36 Petridish and 20 Kelussia seeds were planted in each petri dish. Experimental factors include constant germination temperatures (1, 5, 10 and 15°C), duration of rinsing with running water at 15°C (24, 48 and 72 h) and hormone pretreatment with gibberellin (0, 250 and 500 ppm). Before applying the hormonal pretreatment and temperature, the seeds were washed in running water in such a way that seeds were placed in a strainer that was not immersed and water flowed on the seeds for the specified periods of time for this treatment. In this case, germination inhibitors were washed from the seed surface. According to the test period and laboratory conditions, the laboratory temperature could be controlled at 15 °C with a thermometer and cooling devices. Then, for hormonal pretreatment, the seeds were placed in containers containing gibberellin solution with concentrations of 0, 250 and 500 ppm and refrigerated at 4°C for 72 h. After washing the seeds, 20 seeds were placed in Petridish with a diameter of 10 cm and a height of 2 cm on Whatman filter paper No. 1 and at temperatures of 1, 5, 10 and 15°C with 16 h of light and 8 h of darkness passed. Due to the fact that germination in seeds grown at this temperature at 15°C was zero in all treatment compositions, it was excluded from statistical analysis. To analyze the data variance, the SAS 9.1 statistical software was used. The comparison of means of traits was performed using the Duncan test at 5% probability level.
Results and Discussion
Germination traits, growth indices and physiological parameters of seedling photosynthetic pigments under the influence of leaching, temperature, gibberellin and the interactions of leaching in temperature, leaching in gibberellin, temperature in gibberellin and the combination of leaching treatment × temperature × gibberellin showed significant differences. The results showed that the optimum germination temperature was 1°C and about 54% of seeds were able to germinate at this temperature without using any pretreatment. However, pretreatment of seeds at a temperature of 1°C with gibberellin at 250 ppm and washing for 72 h increased the germination rate to 65%. It has also been shown that treatment with gibberellin at 250 ppm seedling length and gibberellin at 500 ppm improves seedling fresh and dry weight in three leaching treatments at 10°C. Chlorophyll and carotenoid content of seedlings was observed in the combination of 24 hours leaching treatment, temperature of 5°C and gibberellin priming of 500 ppm. Due to the wide variety of species of Apiaceae and also the variety of type and depth of sleep, various treatments to break dormancy and stimulate seed germination of plants of this genus have been proposed, the most important of which are wet and gibberellin. It should be noted that the germination ecology and appropriate treatments to break dormancy in different plant species, plants of the same family, same species and different ecotypes of the same species can be completely different.
Conclusion
According to the results of this study, seed treatment with 72 hours of cold water washing, 1°C and gibberellin pretreatment with a concentration of 250 ppm was able to show the highest germination percentage to achieve High germination is recommended. In addition, at 5°C under gibberellin pretreatment and leaching showed a relatively high germination percentage. Accordingly, gibberellin hormonal pretreatment at low temperatures was effective in achieving more germination under priming conditions. Is. On the other hand, a concentration of 500 ppm gibberellin increased seedling weight and photosynthetic pigments. In general, a temperature of 1°C followed by a temperature of 5°C was effective in increasing the germination of celery seeds and was able to record better results. Also, the suitable seedling growth temperature for mountain celery is 10°C and the application of Gibberellin hormonal pretreatment improved the growth characteristics of Kelussia seedlings.
Medicinal Plants
M. Salehi; R. Kalvandi
Abstract
Introduction Medicinal plants have played an essential role in the development of human culture. Medicinal plants are resources of new drugs and many of the modern medicines are produced indirectly from plants. Although the production of secondary metabolites is controlled by genes, their production ...
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Introduction Medicinal plants have played an essential role in the development of human culture. Medicinal plants are resources of new drugs and many of the modern medicines are produced indirectly from plants. Although the production of secondary metabolites is controlled by genes, their production is considerably influenced by environmental conditions, so environmental factors cause changes in the growth of medicinal plants as well as the amount of active substances. Essential oil quantity and quality are affected by the different environmental conditions. Physiological, morphological and genetic variations were seen in populations of species that occurred in different habitats. These variations were created in response to contrasting environmental conditions. In many plant species, studies on the pattern of variation in populations have shown the localized populations are adapted to the particular environmental conditions of their habitat. The genus Phlomis L. (Lamiaceae) includes about 113 perennial herbs or shrubs distributed in Asia, Europe, and Africa. Some of the Phlomis species have been reported for their traditional uses as analgesic, diuretic, tonic, anti-diarrheic agents and to treat various conditions such as gastric ulcer, inflammation, diabetes, hemorrhoids and wounds. In Flora of Iran, this genus is represented by 20 species, including Phlomis olivieri Benth.Materials and Methods This study was conducted to evaluate the morphological and phytochemical diversity of eleven populations of P. olivieri Benth. from different districts of Hamedan province in 2021. Traits such as plant height, stem diameter, leaf length and width, fresh and dry weight of the flowering branch, inflorescence length, fresh and dry weight of the plant, number of inflorescence cycles, essential oil percentage were measured. In order to investigate the physical and chemical properties of soil, soil samples were collected from a depth of 30 cm. Then they were transferred to the soil laboratory. Plants samples were collected in the flowering stage and were dried at 25-30°C. They were stored in envelopes at 22±3°C away from the sun. For extracting the essential oil of the samples, 100 gr of the plant was milled and then distilled with water. Hydrodistillation lasted for 4 hours. The main components of essential oil were identified and determined by gas chromatography in the Institute of Medicinal Plants in Karaj. Gas chromatography was carried out on Agilent 6890 with capillary column 30m*0.25 mm, 0.25 mm film thickness. The grouping of populations based on morphological and phytochemical traits was done by cluster analysis in SPSS using the Ward method. Also, the traits correlation (quantitative) was done using the Pearson method.Results and Discussion According to the results, the highest fresh and dry weight of flowering branch (6.96 g and 3.48 g) and also the highest fresh and dry weight of the plant (11.77 g and 5.86 g) belonged to the Koohani population. The tallest inflorescence (24.2 cm) belonged to the Jowzan population and the shortest inflorescence belonged to the Gammasiab population (8.9 cm). The highest stem diameter (4.45 mm) was observed in the Garin population. The maximum plant height (49.4 cm) was related to the Rahdarkhaneh population, which was not significantly different from the Garin population, and the minimum was related to the population of Garmak (31 cm), which was not significantly different from the population of Gammasiab (33.50 cm). Also, 31 compounds were identified in this plant essential oil that caryophyllene, germacrene D, and (E)-b-Farnesene had the highest percentage of essential oil constituents. In this study, the highest amount of essential oil (0.04%) was related to the Koohani population which had the lowest altitude among other populations. Therefore, it seems that environmental factors, as well as genetic factors, have been effective in creating diversity in morphological and phytochemical characteristics of this plant.Conclusion The results obtained from this study showed that P. olivieri Benth. populations gathered from different regions of Hamedan province, had a high diversity in terms of essential oil content. The results showed that in addition to genetic factors, environmental and climatic factors also affect phytochemical traits. In this study, the highest amount of essential oil was produced in the Koohani population (located in Nahavand city) with the lowest altitude among other populations. According to the research on the essential oil components of P. olivieri in different regions of Iran, the components of its essential oil and their percentages are completely different; so, some of the components that are seen in one region, are not observed in another region, and this issue emphasizes on the effect of climatic conditions. This difference is quite evident even in the studied populations in a province.
Medicinal Plants
S. Keyghobadi; R. Fotohi Ghazvini; Y. Tajvar; A. Sabouri
Abstract
Introduction
Drought is one of the most important environmental stresses that affects various plants such as ornamental plants. The identification and selection of ornamental tolerant genotypes is essential for landscape projects. Understanding the mechanisms that enable plants to adapt to drought ...
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Introduction
Drought is one of the most important environmental stresses that affects various plants such as ornamental plants. The identification and selection of ornamental tolerant genotypes is essential for landscape projects. Understanding the mechanisms that enable plants to adapt to drought stress can help to select the most tolerant genotypes for cultivation in arid and semi-arid regions.
Materials and Methods
For this purpose, a research was conducted as a factorial experiment based on completely randomized design with eleven genotypes and two levels of irrigation (irrigation as Control and severe drought) at Ramsar Citrus and Tropical Fruits Research Institute.
Results and Discussion
The first symptoms of drought stress were observed after 10 days in the Juniperus horizontalis (G1) genotype (the most sensitive genotype) and were not recovered and dried after 15 days. G3 and G5 genotypes (Ravande-mamouli and Ravande-setarei, respectively) showed drought stress after 28 days (most tolerant genotypes) and recovered at the end of the stress period after irrigation. Drought stress decreased photosynthetic pigments in studied genotypes. The content of soluble sugars, proline, and total soluble protein increased under drought stress conditions and the highest amount was observed in G3 genotype 30.8 mg g-1 DW, 30.5 μg g-1 DW, and 965.2 μg g-1FW, respectively. Under drought stress condition, the highest concentration of hydrogen peroxide, malondialdehyde and electrical conductivity were observed in G11, G4, and G10 genotypes respectively compared to control plants. In addition, the most enzyme activity of superoxide dismutase (85.57%), total phenol (181.09%) and total flavonoid (98.46%) was evaluated in G3, G5 and G8 respectively. Also, chlorophyll changes indicate the response of plants to environmental stresses such as drought during drought stress, the concentration of abscisic acid and ethylene increases, which stimulates the activity of the enzyme chlorophilase and causes chlorophyll degradation. The reduction of photosynthetic pigments under drought stress also seems to be related to changes in nitrogen metabolism to proline production and reduced chlorophyll synthesis because the precursor of chlorophyll and proline is glutamate. Furthermore, one of the biochemical changes that occur in plants under drought stress is the accumulation of ROS. Numerous reports have stated that drought stress increases ROS production. Drought-induced oxidative stress causes lipid peroxidation and membrane damage. It seems that in some genotypes with low levels of malondialdehyde, the membrane damage is severe and leads to more electrical conductivity. Genotypes with more electrical conductivity are more damaged by drought stress. In some genotypes, such as G2 and G11, there was a positive correlation between malondialdehyde content and electrical conductivity, but in others, such as G1, there was a negative correlation. Although the amount of malondialdehyde in this genotype is low, electrical conductivity is very high. In other words, this genotype should be a genotype sensitive to drought stress. The tolerance of the plant to various environmental stresses may be related to the level of activity of the enzymes responsible for scavenging ROS. The antioxidant response to water scarcity depends on the severity of stress and type of plant species. Therefore, different genotypes increased their antioxidant activity to reduce the effects of oxidative stress, and the high antioxidant activity was observed for G5 compared with other genotypes which can be contemplated as drought-tolerant genotype. The accumulation of compatible metabolites such as soluble sugars and proline in plants under drought conditions can help to protect them against stress. The proline and soluble sugars accumulation under stress conditions reduce lipid peroxidation and acts as a free radical scavenger. According to the results, drought stress induced accumulation of proline and soluble sugars in the genotypes of Juniperus and the highest accumulation of proline was related to G3. Therefore, this genotype can be introduced as drought-resistant genotype.
Conclusion
The results of the current study showed that drought stress significantly affected some biochemical parameters in all eleven genotypes. However, a variation in drought susceptibility was observed among genotypes. The studied genotypes in this experiment had different responses to drought stress and it seems that they utilized different mechanisms for stress tolerance. Genotype of G3 (Ravande -mamouli) was the most tolerant genotype to drought stress based on the highest levels of superoxide dismutase, soluble sugars, proline, and soluble protein. Genotype of G5 was also tolerant to drought stress with high superoxide dismutase activity and the largest amount of total flavonoid production. Therefore, increasing of compatible metabolites and antioxidant system are effective protective mechanisms against oxidative damage under drought stress.
Medicinal Plants
M. Bagheri; M. H. Rasouli-Sadaghiani; E. Rezaei-Chiyaneh; M. Barin
Abstract
Introduction
The use of intercropping and the potential of microorganisms such as Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and Plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) is one of the important strategies in sustainable agriculture. Intercropping is multiple cropping systems, in which two or more crop ...
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Introduction
The use of intercropping and the potential of microorganisms such as Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and Plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) is one of the important strategies in sustainable agriculture. Intercropping is multiple cropping systems, in which two or more crop species planted simultaneously in a field during a growing season. Of course, this does not mean that in the intercropping, plants can be planted at a time together, but is the purpose that two or more crops are together in one place, during their growing season or at least in a time frame. Therefore, it is possible that plants are different in terms of planting date, and a plant is planted after the other plant. Potential benefits of intercropping are such as high productivity and profitability, improvement of soil fertility, efficient use of resources, reduction in the damages caused by pests and weeds, better lodging resistance and yield stability. On the other hand, the use of AMF and PGPR as biofertilizers can play a role in improving plant nutrition, plant growth and product quality. The aim of this study was to study the effect of AMF and PGPR inoculation on plant growth indices in bean-Moldavian balm intercropping.
Materials and Methods
This experiment was conducted in the Agricultural Research Greenhouse of Urmia University, Located in 11 kilometers Sero road of the city of Urmia, Iran (latitude 36° 57′ N, longitude 45° 24′ E and 1321 m elevation) in 2017. The climate of the area is a Hot-summer Mediterranean climate bordering continental climate with cold winters, mild springs, hot dry summers, and warm autumns. This experiment was carried out in a factorial based on a randomized complete block design with three replications. The factors including microbial inoculation {(AMF, PGPR, AMF+PGPR and without microbial inoculation) and planting patterns (Sole cropping of Moldavian balms and bean, 1 row bean+ 1 row Moldavian balms (1:1), 2 rows bean+ 1 row Moldavian balms (2:1), 1 row bean+ 2 rows Moldavian balms (1:2) and 2 rows bean+ 2 row Moldavian balms (2:2)}. For this purpose, soil samples were prepared from Naqhadeh city in West Azerbaijan Province in Iran. In order to greenhouse tests, the soils added to the pots (in each pot containing 45 kg of soil). In treatments, soil used with microbial inoculation. Microbial strains were used for microbial inoculation including PGPR (P. aeruginosa, P.fluorescens and P. putida) and AMF (Funneliformis mosseae, Rhizophagus irregularis and Claroideoglomus etunicatum). For plant cultivation, been (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) and moldavian balms (Dracocephalum moldavica) seeds cultivar were grown in pots. At the end of the growth period, the characteristics of the agronomic traits in the bean plant were including plant height, number of seeds per pod, 1000 seed weight, biomass yield and Seed yield, and in Moldavian Balm were including, plant height, biomass yield and essential oil percentage were determined. In addition, the land equivalent ratio (LER) was calculated to determine the advantages of intercropping. The analysis of variance for the obtained data was done by statistical analysis system (SAS 9.4) software. The mean comparison was done using the Duncan test at the 5% probability level.
Results and Discussion
The results showed that the different intercropping and microbial inoculation had a significant effect on all traits, in Moldavian balms and common beans. All the plant growth indices in common bean-Moldavian balm intercropping were the highest in the combined treatment of AMF +PGPR, compared to another treatment. The highest and the lowest seed and biomass yield of bean were achieved in sole cropping with 3.20 and 9.70 g and 1:1 with 1.57 and 4.41 g, respectively. The maximum biomass yield and other traits of Moldavian balm obtained under sole cropping, while essential oil percentage was higher in all intercropping patterns than in sole cropping patterns. The main constituents of Moldavian balms essential oil were Geranyl acetate, Geranial, Geraniol and Neral. The highest LER value (1.67) was obtained from 2:2 intercropping in PGPR inoculation.
Conclusion
In general, the results showed that all of the plant growth indices of Moldavian balms and bean in sole cropping were higher than other intercropping patterns; however higher LER was observed in intercropping with microbial inoculation. This shows more exploitation of unit area in intercropping. In addition, the greater amount of LER in replacement intercropping than additive intercropping highlights the necessity of appropriate density of plants per unit area in the intercropping. It can be concluded that application of intercropping with combined application of AMF and PGPR leads to improvement on yield and yield components of plant.
Medicinal Plants
M. Nematinejad; A. Raissi; M.R. Asgharipour; F. Nosrati
Abstract
Introduction
One of the most important factors affecting the quantitative and qualitative characteristics of plants are genetic and environmental factors and their interactions. Golder (Otostegia persica Boiss.) is one of the endemic species of Iran and is in the list of top 10 medicinal plants ...
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Introduction
One of the most important factors affecting the quantitative and qualitative characteristics of plants are genetic and environmental factors and their interactions. Golder (Otostegia persica Boiss.) is one of the endemic species of Iran and is in the list of top 10 medicinal plants used in Baluchistan, Iran. Therefore, in this study, some morphological and phytochemical characteristics of this plant were investigated in the natural habitats of Baluhistan. Essential oil components of leaves and flowers of Kooh birk-Mehrestan population also measured. Also, with the aim of investigating the soil properties on the establishment and growth characteristics of Golder, the soil edaphic characteristics of plant communities were evaluated.
Materials and Methods
This study was conducted in 2017 in some natural habitats of Baluchistan, Iran. Research was performed in the form of a nested plan as completely random design with three replications in the cities of 1- Saravan (Villages of Kooh Sont and Nahuk), 2- Khash (Villages of Panj Angisht and Posht Kuh), 3- Sarbaz (Padik village and Kalat Sarbaz) and 4-Mehrestan (Villages of Zard and Birk kooh) using field survey. Edaphic traits such as soil texture and chemistry were measured. Morphological traits including plant height, internode distance, leaf length and width were measured using instruments such as graduated rulers and calipers. Phytochemical traits including Phenol, Flavonoids and Carbohydrates in different parts of the plant and also the components of essential oils in leaves and flowers were studied. Soluble carbohydrate by Coles and Ansel method, photosynthetic pigments by Arnon method, total phenols with fullene-cicalto reagent by McDonald method, Flavonoids by aluminum chloride colorimetric method and adsorption of any reaction compound at 415 nm wavelength by spectrophotometer were measured. Data analysis was performed by SAS software (version 9.2) and the means were compared by Duncan's multiple range test at 5% level.
Results
The lowest (7.80) and highest (8.50) pH levels were measured in Zard and Kooh Birk respectively. Lowest (1.29) and highest (4.38) EC levels in Panj angosht and Nahuk respectively, the lowest (43.53(dS m-1)) and highest (50.73(dS m-1)) Na levels in Kooh Birk and Nahuk respectively, the highest N (11.10%) and P (0.32 (ppm)) in the Posht kooh of Khash, the highest amount of total K (62.20 (ppm)), absorbable K (72.17(ppm)) and the highest percentage of silt (38.30) were obtained in the Kooh sont area of Saravan. In evaluating the growth characteristics of plant in different regions, the maximum internode distance, highest number of lateral branches, petiole length, leaf length and width and number of main branches in Kooh Birk region of Mehrestan city and highest plant height in Nahuk region of Saravan city were measured. Comparing the amount of phytochemical compounds in different organs of this plant, it was observed that the highest amount of flavonoids is present in the leaves and the highest amount of phenols and carbohydrates are present in the stem. The lowest amount of all three compounds was measured at the root. Maximum amount of leaf Flavonoids (1.83 mgQE/g), stem Phenol (mg GAE/g 1.86) and root Flavonoid (0.11 mgQE/g) in Panj angosht area of Khash city, stem and root Flavonoids (0.45mgQE/g and 0.11mgQE/g) and stem Carbohydrate (1.99 mg/g) in Zard area of Mehrestan city, leaf Phenol (mgGAE/g 2.38) and root carbohydrate (1.73 mg/g) in Posht kooh region of Khash, and maximum amount of leaf carbohydrates (1.99 mg/g) in Kooh sont area of Saravan were obtained. Analysis of the chemical composition of the essential oil using a gas chromatograph-mass spectrometer (GC-MS) showed 12 compounds per leaf and 31 compounds per flower. The highest and lowest essential oil components were Thymol (12.0%) and Decane (2.1%), respectively. Also, the highest and lowest components of essential oils in flowers were Benzene, 1- (1,5-dimethyl-4-hexenyl) -4-methyl- (CAS)) (13.0%) and (0.4%), respectively. Therefore, the lowest essential ingredient was Decane, both in leaves and flowers. In general, the results of this study showed that there is a considerable diversity among the studied populations in terms of all the studied characteristics. This indicates that environmental factors similar to genetic factors are effective in creating diversity in morphological and phytochemical characteristics of this plant.
Conclusion
In general, the results of this experiment showed that the habitats of Khash are better in terms of soil chemistry and major phytochemical traits. Kooh birk region is the best area for harvesting the aerial parts of this plant.
Medicinal Plants
S. Daghighi; F. Azarmi-Atajan; N. Chopani Aghech
Abstract
Introduction
Barberry is one of the important agricultural products of Iran and has an important role in the economy of farmers, especially in South Khorasan province. Salinity as abiotic stress can cause an ionic or osmotic imbalance in plant cells. Salt stress also restricts plant growth and ...
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Introduction
Barberry is one of the important agricultural products of Iran and has an important role in the economy of farmers, especially in South Khorasan province. Salinity as abiotic stress can cause an ionic or osmotic imbalance in plant cells. Salt stress also restricts plant growth and development by affecting water reducing availability and affecting plant production. Despite the relatively high tolerance of barberry to environmental stresses, increasing soil salinity and irrigation water in barberry growing areas, the growth, and yield of this agricultural product have decreased. The use of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) is a new method that has been shown to increase the tolerance of various plants to salinity stress.
Materials and Methods
Due to the lack of information about the effect of salinity on the growth and establishment of barberry off-shoot and the role of beneficial soil bacteria in increasing the tolerance of this plant to salinity stress, this study aimed to investigate the role of bacteria on growth, physiological and biochemical properties and uptake of nutrients by barberry off-shoot at different levels of irrigation water salinity. For this purpose, a factorial study was conducted in a randomized complete block design with 3 replications. Experimental factors included plant growth-stimulating bacteria at three levels (control (Without inoculation) and inoculation with Pseudomonas sp. P1 and Pseudomonas sp. P2) and salinity of irrigation water at three levels (control, 6 and 12 dS/m from sodium chloride source). The bacteria used in this study were able to produce indole acetic acid, siderophore, ACC deaminase enzyme, and dissolve insoluble phosphate (tricalcium phosphate) in vitro. For inoculation, inoculum containing each bacterium with a population of 108 cells/ml was prepared in the Nutrient Broth medium and added to the root medium. The plants were irrigated with non-saline water for one month and then with saline water for two months based on experimental treatments. Finally, leaf sampling was performed and various characteristics such as leaf dry weight, chlorophyll, proline, total sugar, RWC and phosphorus, potassium, sodium, and chloride concentrations were measured. Analysis of variance of traits was performed using SAS software and the means were compared using the LSD method with a probability level of P≤0.05.
Results and Discussion
The results showed that the salinity of irrigation water reduced leaf dry weight, chlorophyll and carotenoid concentration, relative water content, and potassium to sodium ratio of barberry leaves. Decreased photosynthetic pigments under salinity may be due to decreased synthesis of the main chlorophyll pigment complex, oxidative damage to chloroplast lipids, pigments, and proteins, or increased chlorophyllase activity. In contrast, with increasing salinity, the amount of proline and total sugar and the concentration of phosphorus, sodium, and chlorine in leaves increased. Bacterial inoculation also increased leaf dry weight, chlorophyll, carotenoids, potassium concentration, relative water content, and potassium to sodium ratio, especially in saline conditions. Also in saline conditions, the concentrations of sodium, chlorine, phosphorus, proline, and total sugar in the leaves of barberry off-shoot inoculated with bacteria decreased. It seems that PGPR plays a significant role in the regulation of cellular osmolites, including proline and soluble sugars, by producing various metabolites and increasing the absorption of water and nutrients. The highest amount of leaf dry weight (0.70 g), total chlorophyll (0.92 mg g-1 fresh weight), carotenoids (0.51 mg g-1 fresh weight), leaf potassium (0.48 %), and total leaf sugar (43.7 mg g-1 dry weight) was obtained from the application of PGPR in conditions without salinity stress. Also, the use of bacteria in saline conditions decreased the amount of phosphorus and total sugar and in non-saline conditions increased the amount of these parameters. PGPR through various mechanisms such as the production of auxin, organic and mineral acids, and secretion of proton and phosphatase enzymes increase the availability of phosphorus for the plant, root growth, and absorption of water and nutrients. Increased absorption of water and nutrients has led to increased leaf growth and development and therefore reduced phosphorus concentration (dilution effect).
Conclusion
According to the results, PGPR by increasing the absorption of water and nutrients such as phosphorus and potassium caused osmotic regulation in the plant and thus increased the tolerance of barberry off-shoot to salinity stress of irrigation water. The ability of these bacteria to improve plant growth in saline conditions could be due to the production of auxin, siderophore, dissolution of tricalcium phosphate, and especially the production of the enzyme ACC-deaminase (as observed in vitro). Therefore, these bacteria can be used to improve the nutrition growth and establishment of barberry off-shoot.
Medicinal Plants
V. Akbarpour; M. Motaharinezhad; M. A. Bahmanyar
Abstract
Introduction
Nowadays, spraying method is used in plant nutrition to optimize the use of chemical fertilizers and reduce environmental hazards. With the foliar solution, the elements are quickly transferred to the plant and delivered to the branch, leaf, or fruit. Surveys show that increase performance ...
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Introduction
Nowadays, spraying method is used in plant nutrition to optimize the use of chemical fertilizers and reduce environmental hazards. With the foliar solution, the elements are quickly transferred to the plant and delivered to the branch, leaf, or fruit. Surveys show that increase performance per unit area is one of the most important things that has attracted the attention of many researchers. The first requirement for high performance is high dry matter production per unit area. Some experiments have shown that increasing the amount of carbon dioxide in the air can increase yield, accelerate flowering and accumulate carbohydrates in plants. One of the solutions to increase carbon dioxide concentrations in plants is to use compounds such as ethanol and methanol. Therefore feeding plants with alcohols such as ethanol and methanol as carbon sources is one of the appropriate methods to increase their quantitative and qualitative properties.
Materials and Methods
Due to the importance of peppermint (Mentha piperita L.) in the production of valuable secondary metabolites, and also the effect of ethanol and methanol on some morphological and physiological parameters of this plant, a pot experiment was conducted in factorial based on completely randomized design with three replications in the research greenhouse of Shahed University in 2018. Foliar treatments included different concentrations of 0, 15, 30 and 45% ethanol, methanol and combine them that was done in three stages. The studied traits were plant height, number of leaves per plant, biological yield, chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, total chlorophyll, carotenoid, flavonoid, essential oil percentage, essential oil yield and protein percentage. Data analysis was performed using SAS statistical software (version 9.2) and mean treatments were compared by LSD test. Also charts were drawn by excel software.
Results and Discussion
The results showed that the simple effects of ethanol and methanol on plant height, biological yield, flavonoid content, essential oil percentage, essential oil yield and protein percentage were significant but their interactions were not significant. Ethanol 45% had the most effect on percentage and yield of essential oil and protein percentage. But the use of 15% ethanol treatment had the highest value in other traits (plant height, total phenol and flavonoids), which was at a statistical level with 45% methanol treatment. Also interaction between ethanol and methanol on leaf number per plant, chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, total chlorophyll and carotenoid was significant at 1% probability level. The highest number of leaves per plant and chlorophyll a (29.55 µg/g fresh leaf weight) was observed in the combination of 15% ethanol and 15% methanol, while the highest amount of chlorophyll b (20.86 µg/g fresh leaf weight) and total chlorophyll (49.85 µg/g fresh leaf weight) was related to the combined application of 15% ethanol and 45% methanol.
Conclusion
Foliar spraying is one of the methods of fertilization and supply of nutrients to plants that due to high absorption rate nutrients can be made available to plants in the shortest time. The results of this study showed that all the studied traits were significantly affected by one or more of the ethanol and methanol treatments. Therefore, the foliar application of ethanol and methanol as carbon sources has an important role in improving the qualitative and quantitative parameters of peppermint.
Medicinal Plants
R. Ghanbari Moheb Seraj; M. Behnamian; A. Ahmadikhah; V. Shariati; S. Dezhestan
Abstract
Introduction
Plant growth and yield are affected often by stress conditions, especially drought, which is the most important factor in reducing crop production worldwide. Silybum marianum is an important pharmaceutical crop with great potential as a multipurpose plant for low-input cropping systems ...
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Introduction
Plant growth and yield are affected often by stress conditions, especially drought, which is the most important factor in reducing crop production worldwide. Silybum marianum is an important pharmaceutical crop with great potential as a multipurpose plant for low-input cropping systems of the arid and semiarid regions.
Materials and Methods
In this experiment, the effect of drought stress (full irrigation at field capacity; no stress, irrigation at 70% of field capacity; mild stress and irrigation at 40% of field capacity; severe stress) on physiologic traits, the amount of silybin a and b and 1000 seed weight in milk thistle was studied in the research field of Shahid Beheshti University in 2017-2018. The experimental site is located in Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran (51.23°N, 35.48°E, and 1769 m above mean sea level). It has a moderate and mountainous climate with a mean annual rainfall of 145.2 mm and a mean temperature of 22ºC. This experiment was performed in a completely randomized block design with 3 replications. Milk thistle seeds were prepared from Isfahan Pakanbazr Company. The soil composition consisted of 1/3 clay, 1/3 sand, and 1/3 leaf composts. The field area was 150.0 m2. Furrows were created to implement this study. The space of plants on rows was 0.5 m and between rows was 1 m. In general, 15 furrows were created and 15 plants were cultured on each furrow, so the total number of plants cultivated on the field was 225. Drought stress was applied at flowering stage. Soil moisture was measured by the weighing method. The soil samples were taken from various areas (randomly) of the field, three samples each day. After measuring the water content at F.C, based on that, the amount of 70%F.C and 40%F.C was also calculated. At the time of stress, F.C irrigation was performed every two days, 70% F.C irrigation every 4 days, and 40% F.C irrigation every 6 days. After 8 days, leaf sampling was performed to measure catalase, ascorbate peroxidase, proline and malondialdehyde content and seed sampling was performed to 1000 seed weight and extract analysis. For physiologic measurements, 3 plants were randomly assigned to each stack and their leaves were separated and transferred to the laboratory. Then, in the next step, their physiologic parameters (include Catalase and ascorbate peroxidase, proline and malondialdehyde content) were measured according to the relevant protocol. In order to measure silybin, 4 plants were randomly considered to each stack and their seeds were harvested and combined and dried in shade condition in the laboratory for one month. The dried seed samples were completely powdered using a mill, then 10 g of the powders weighed and the oil extract of them was isolated by Soxhlet using n-hexane solvent. The extraction temperature was 70 °C and the extraction time was 6 h. After the extraction was completed, the extract was poured into dark glass. Next, the oil-free powder was dried in an incubator at 37 ° C. Methanol extract of oil-free powder was extracted using methanol solvent. For this purpose, 2 g of samples powder was weighed and 200 ml of 80% methanol was added to each of them and the mixture stirred for two days by Shaker. The mixture was then passed from a filter paper and after that, 200 ml of 80% methanol was added to the sample precipitate (on filter paper) and placed again on the shaker. After 24 h, extraction was performed by the same method and were added to the previous extract. The extracts were then concentrated in the environment temperature for two weeks. Concentrated extracts (powder) as well as standard silymarin with certain concentrations were dissolved in methanol solvent and used for injection into HPLC (Model: Infinity1260, Manufacturer: Agilent) using syringe filters with a diameter of 0.2 μm. After receiving the HPLC results, the data and peaks were analyzed and the amounts of silybin a and b were determined and compared at different levels of water stress. Statistical analysis of data was performed using R 3.6.1 and RStudio 1.1.463 software. Mean data were compared using Duncan's test with agricolae package at a significance level of 0.05.
Results and Discussion
The results showed that with increasing water stress intensity, the amount of silybin a and silybin b increased by 24% and 26%, respectively. The amount of these compounds in 40% were significantly higher than other treatments, so that its amount compared to F.C treatment (26.07 mg/g Grain DW in silybin a and 40.74 mg/g Grain DW in silybin b) and compared to the 70%F.C (25.32 mg/g Grain DW in silybin a and 34.64 mg/g Grain DW in silybin b) was higher. This indicates carbon assimilation from photosynthesis to produce secondary metabolites in this treatment. Also, the amount of silybin b compared to silybin a in all treatments was (0.8: 1.2), in which 1.2 is related to silybin b and 0.8 is related to silybin a. In severe stress treatment (40% of field capacity), the amount of silybin a and b (67.30 and 98.92 mg/g, respectively) increased significantly compared to other treatments. According to the mean comparison results, the highest activity of catalase (5.16 U/ml) and ascorbate peroxidase (2.26 U/ml) was observed in mild stress treatment. Proline content gradually increased with increasing stress intensity and reached its peak in severe stress (3.36 µM/gr). Lipid peroxidation also had their maximum in severe stress (8.35 nmol/grFW). The 1000 seeds weight was reduced by 6.8 g in severe stress treatment (40%F.C) compared to the control (F.C).
Conclusion
According to the results, the amount of milk thistle flavonoids can be increased for medicinal purposes including the treatment of liver disease and hepatitis by applying dehydration stress.
Medicinal Plants
Sh. Taghipour; A. Ehtesham Nia; H. Khodayari; H. Mumivand
Abstract
Introduction
Due to their pleasant and soothing taste and odor, attractive colors, and medicinal purposes, Chrysanthemum morifolium flowers have been widely used as food, tea, ornamentation, and medicine. It has been reported that C. morifolium can reduce hyperactivity of the liver, improve eyesight ...
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Introduction
Due to their pleasant and soothing taste and odor, attractive colors, and medicinal purposes, Chrysanthemum morifolium flowers have been widely used as food, tea, ornamentation, and medicine. It has been reported that C. morifolium can reduce hyperactivity of the liver, improve eyesight and regulate cellular immunity. Pharmacological investigations have shown that Flo's chrysanthemum exhibits antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and heart-protective characteristics. Previous phytochemical studies on caffeic acid derivatives, flavonoids, triterpenoids, glycosides and alkaloids have been isolated from Flo's chrysanthemum. In this study, chrysanthemum cultivars were evaluated in terms of having secondary compounds and desirable medicinal properties, as well as antibacterial effects to introduce superior cultivars and purposeful planning for breeding research. The purpose of the present study, 25 cultivars of C. morifolium were compared in terms of essential oil content, leaves total phenolic, flavonoid and antioxidant activity.
Materials and Methods
In this experiment, 25 chrysanthemum cultivars were studied in terms of essential oil percentage, antioxidant index, total phenol and flavonoid content and antibacterial effects in a randomized complete block design in Lorestan University research farm in the year 2016. Essential oil was extracted from dried flowers in the shade using a Clevenger apparatus for 3 hours. Evaluation of antioxidant activity of the extract was measured by DPPH method based on the method of Kulisic et al. (2004). The amount of flavonoids was measured by aluminum chloride and total phenol by Folin - Ciocalteu reagent colorimetric. Ward analysis was done to classify the cultivars.
Results and Discussion
The results of analysis of variance showed that the studied chrysanthemum cultivars had significant differences in terms of all studied phytochemical traits. According to the obtained results, among different cultivars, the total amount of phenolic compounds is between 14.52-47.90 mg/g dry weight, the total flavonoid content is between 11.59-55.62 mg/g DW and IC50 index varied between 83.92 and 257.43 μg/ml. The highest amount of total phenol was present in Avadis and Dila cultivars (45.86-47.90 mg/g dry weight), while Yasamin cultivar (14.52 mg/g DW) had the lowest amount. Also, in terms of total flavonoid content, Golnar and Farahnaz cultivars had the highest total flavonoid content with 55.62 and 53.01 mg quercetin/g DW, respectively. Cluster analysis divided all studied cultivars into five groups. The percentage of essential oil among different cultivars varied between 0.41 to 0.62% and a high variability was observed in terms of the amount of essential oil in the studied cultivars. The highest percentage of essential oil was related to Farhnaz and Elmira2 cultivars. In general, the results showed high antioxidant activity of most cultivars. Therefore, chrysanthemum extract can be introduced as a suitable source of natural antioxidants. Also in this study, Paridokht, Sana and Ashraf cultivars were studied in terms of antioxidant and antibacterial index and Farahnaz and Elmira 2 cultivars appeared superior to other cultivars in terms of essential oil production. Hedaei et al. (2018) studied evaluation of some bioactive compounds and antioxidant activity of leaf methanolic extract and flower essential oil content from different cultivars of Chrysanthemum morifolium, in this review, total phenol and flavonoid contents and IC50 values in different cultivars were ranged from 17.63-33.20 mg/g DW, 12.62-53.17 mg quercetin/g, and 54-228 μg/ml respectively. The highest phenolic content was in cultivar “Poya3” (33.20 mg/g DW), whereas the cultivar “Sahand2” (17.63 mg/g DW) contained the lowest value. Also, in terms of total flavonoid content, cultivars “Marmar” and “Sahand 2” had the highest and the lowest flavonoids with 53.17 and 12.62 mg quercetin per gram, respectively.
Conclusion
The results of the present study indicate a significant difference between different cultivars in terms of the total amount of phenolic, flavonoid and antioxidant compounds that the existence of such diversity can be the role of cultivar and genetics in the production of these compounds. According to the results of this study, chrysanthemum cultivars with desirable levels of phenolic and flavonoid compounds can be used as a source of natural antioxidants as an alternative to synthetic antioxidants. In this study, Sana, Paridokht and Ashraf cultivars appeared superior to the existing genotypes in terms of phytochemical and antibacterial traits. The results of this study can be used to select the correct parents for purposeful crosses in subsequent chrysanthemum breeding programs in order to improve the phytochemical traits of existing cultivars.
Medicinal Plants
L. Vojodi Mehrabani; Y. Anvari Gheshlagh; A. Motallebiazar
Abstract
Introduction
NaCl Salinity is one of the major environmental stressors affecting agricultural production everywhere. Salinity impacts the plants by the osmotic stress, nutritional imbalance with plants cells and by reducing the nutrients absorption and reactive oxygen species over-generation, ...
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Introduction
NaCl Salinity is one of the major environmental stressors affecting agricultural production everywhere. Salinity impacts the plants by the osmotic stress, nutritional imbalance with plants cells and by reducing the nutrients absorption and reactive oxygen species over-generation, as well as by ionic competition for the absorption, translocation, distribution and ion toxicity inside plants. Under salinity stress, plants develop various physiological and biochemical mechanisms to overcome this conditions, like ion homeostasis and compartmentalization, ion uptake, biosynthesis of osmoprotectants, activation of antioxidant enzymeic (superoxide dismutase, catalase, ascorbate peroxidase and glutathione peroxidase) and nonenzymic compounds (proline) to overcome salinity stress. Optimum nutrition under stressful saline conditions is important to overcome the problem and to produce optimum yield. Pelargonium graveolens is a plant commonly used in food and pharmaceutical industries. Iran has favorable micro-climates for the Pelargonium graveolens, production, and since this plants is in common use with diverse industries, this experiments was conducted to study the effects of foliar spray with Se and nano Fe on growth and physiological traits Pelargonium graveolens under NaCl salinity depression
Materials and Methods
Two separate experiments were concluded to evaluate the effects of foliar application of selenium and nano-Iron (0, 1.5 and 3 mgL-1) on pelargonium under saline (0, 50 and 100 mM) conditions as factorial based on Completely Randomized Design. In the first experiment, the effects of magnetized Iron and in the second experiment, the effect of selenium were assayed on pelargonium growth and physiological traits (plant dry weight, enzymic activity, elemental content, essential oil percent and oil constituents) under salinity stress.
Results and Discussion
The results obtained from the first experiment showed that, the aerial parts dry weight, Na, Fe and H2O2 content, catalase activity and oil percent of Pelargonium graveolens were independently affected by the salinity and (1.5 and 3 mgL-1) Fe foliar treatment. At the first experiment the highest amount of K/Na ratio, flavonoid content, K content, malondialdehyde, proline and superoxide dismutase activity were influenced by salinity stress. The top amount amount of plant dry weight, Fe content, K/Na, Na and superoxide dismutase activity were recorded at control plants. The top amounts of Na, proline, malondialdehyde, H2O2 content were recorded at 100 mM salinity stress. control and 50 mM NaCl increased oil percent in plants. Foliar spray with 1.5 and 3 mgL-1 Fe increased catalase, yield, phenolic content and oil percent in plants. At the second experiment; aerial parts dry weight, proline and flavonoid content were influenced by salinity stress. Catalase activity, malondialdehyde, superoxide dismutase activity and H2O2 content were influenced by sole effects of salinity and Se foliar application. Under non saline condition, plant dry weight, superoxide dismutase activity, K content were increased in plant. With increasing salinity to 100 mM NaCl, proline, malondialdehyde and H2O2 content were increased. Se, Na content and K/Na ratio in the second experiment was influenced by the interaction effects of salinity and foliar spray. At the second experiment, the top amount of K/Na ratio were recorded at NaCl0 × 1.5 and 3 mgL-1 Se spray. The top amounts of Na were recorded at NaCl0 × no foliar application. The superoxide dismutase activity, malondialdehyde and K+ were responded to the individual effects of salinity and Se treatment. The highest amounts of total phenolic content was attained by (1.5 and 3 mgL-1) nano Fe and Se treatment in both experiment. With salinity of 50 and 100 mM, the flavonoids contend was increased at both experiments. Foliar spray with 1.5 and 3 mgL-1 Nano Fe and Se increased catalase activity in plants. 1.5 and 3 mgL-1 Se and nano Fe foliar application reduced H2O2 content in plant at both experiment. GC/MS analysis revealed that β-citronellol (12.5-20.5%) was the major constituent with control treatment Citronelly formate (10.75-25.2%) were the dominant constituents of oil control plants. Β-Thujone (12.61%), trans-Rose oxide (2.85- 9 %) and the highest amounts of Aromadendrene (5.42 %) only recorded at control plants. Salinity stress and foliar spray had negative effects on α-Pinene biosynthesis and the highest amounts of α-Pinene was recorded in control plants. The top amounts of Geranyl formate (0.7-7.8 %) was recorded at NaCl50 × 1.5 mgL-1 Fe spray. Y- muurolene (0.4 – 4.06 %) biosynthesis increased at NaCl50 × 1.5 mgL-1 Se.
Conclusion
Salinity stress involves changes in metabolic processes and various physiological traits, controlled by salinity stress severity. In total, salinity had negative effects on the growth and physiological responses of plants, however, foliar treatment with Se and Fe improved some physiological traits of Pelargonium graveolens.
Medicinal Plants
S. A. H. Bahari Meymandi; Sh. Sharafzadeh; O. Alizadeh; F. Bazrafshan; B. Amiri
Abstract
Introduction In recent years, the aggressive application of chemical fertilizers for agricultural production has endangered the health of soil, water, air, as well as crops, and has raised many concerns for the global environment and human health. In addition to the positive biological effects and ...
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Introduction In recent years, the aggressive application of chemical fertilizers for agricultural production has endangered the health of soil, water, air, as well as crops, and has raised many concerns for the global environment and human health. In addition to the positive biological effects and modification of soil physical and chemical properties due to the gradual release of nutrients, organic fertilizers cause less pollution in the environment. Due to the significant role of medicinal and aromatic plants in different industries, it is important to increasing production of yield and secondary metabolite produced without the use of harmful chemical fertilizers. Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare Mill) is widely grown in arid and semi-arid regions and due to its economic importance and pharmaceutical industrial applications, it is one of the world’s most dimension medicinal plant. This plant has antiseptic, antispasmodic, antiinflammatory, diuretic, carminative and analgesic effects and is effective in gastrointestinal disorder treatment. Moreover with its antioxidant and antiulcer properties, it is used to treat neurological disorders.Materials and Methods This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of organic and biological fertilizers on the morpho-physiological and phytochemical properties of fennel (Foeniculum vulgar Miller). In this study, the impacts of vermicompost (0, 4, 8% in pot), animal manure (0, 7.5, 15% in pot) and mycorrhizal fungi (0, 1%) on physiological and biochemical properties of fennel in greenhouse conditions was evaluated. In order to extract the samples to measure biochemical factors, methanol 70% was used at a ratio of 5:1 (volume- weight). Determination of free radical scavenging was performed by using the DPPH test. The samples’ absorptions were read at a wavelength of 517 nm with Epoch Microplate Spectrophotometer, BioTek Instruments, Inc., USA. Measuring the total phenols was performed according to the Folin’s reagent method and the use of gallic acid as standard (purchased from the brand MERCK, Germany) by using a spectrophotometer at the wavelength of 765 nm. Total flavonoid content was measured using a spectrophotometer at a wavelength of 510 nm through a standard curve of quercetin from Sigma-Aldrich. The Essential oils were obtained from seeds by hydrodistillation for 3 h using a clevenger type device. The analyses of essential oil volatile components were determined by gas chromatography (GC) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Data were analyzed by using Duncan’s multiple range test (P< 0.05) by SAS, version 9.4 for Windows.Results and Discussion The results of current investigation showed that organic and biological fertilizers improved the fennel yield and phytochemical properties such as the plant height, seed weight per plant, fresh and dry weight of roots and plants, content of total phenols and flavonoids, antioxidant activity, percentage of essential oil and root colonization. The highest plant height, number of flowers, umbrellas and seeds per plant and fresh and dry weight of roots were obtained after combined application of 8% in pot vermicompost, 15% in pot animal manure and application of mycorrhiza. According to the results, the highest amount of total flavonoids (177.66 mg/100g DW) and root colonization (35.8%) after of 8% in pot vermicompost + 15% in pot animal manure + mycorrhiza application was observed. The results also revealed that the highest fresh and dry weight of the plants (121.33 and 17.41 g, respectively) was obtained after application of mycorrhiza + 15% in pot animal manure. Application of mycorrhiza in combination with 15% in pot animal manure compared to other treatments caused a significant increase in total phenol content in aerial parts with 73.22 mg/100g DW. In addition, the highest amount of antioxidant activity (51%) was obtained after 8% in pot vermicompost + 15% in pot animal manure application. Application of organic and biological fertilizers significantly increased the 1000 seed weight and the percentage of essential oil in fennel. After 15% in pot animal manure treatment, the highest percentage of essential oil by 3.43% was recorded. In general, the highest percentages of essential oil components were related to (E)-Anethole (78.26%), Fenchone (7.15%), Limonene (6.12%) and Methyl chavicol (3.85%), respectively. The amount of (E)-Anethole as the essential oil predominant compound, in the control treatment was 66.92%. The application of mycorrhiza + 4% in pot vermicompost increased the content of (E) -Anethole in essential oil to 80.72%.Conclusion In general, application of vermicompost, animal manure and mycorrhizal fungi improved the growth, biochemical and yield characteristics and essential oil yield of fennel in greenhouse conditions. These fertilizers increased plant yield by providing large amounts of required nutrients and affecting various aspects of root growth and development. Among them, the role of nitrogen may be more prominent due to its participation in protein synthesis and the role of iron in nitrogen fixation, photosynthesis and electron transfer.
Medicinal Plants
Z. Shahzeidi; S. Hesami Tackallou; L. Amjad; H. Zali; A. Iranbakhsh
Abstract
Introduction UV-C (254-280 nm) and 280-320 nm) UV-B, UV-A (320-390nm) wavelengths are irradiated with three ultraviolet strips and have detrimental effects on the growth of a number of plants. Ultraviolet light is an important non-living factor that can stimulate the production of secondary metabolites, ...
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Introduction UV-C (254-280 nm) and 280-320 nm) UV-B, UV-A (320-390nm) wavelengths are irradiated with three ultraviolet strips and have detrimental effects on the growth of a number of plants. Ultraviolet light is an important non-living factor that can stimulate the production of secondary metabolites, including antioxidant compounds in plants. Ozone depletion and its consequences, including direct UV radiation on the planet and its effects on crops and medicinal plants, are among the topics that have received very little study. Ultraviolet light in nature occurs only at low intensities, but if the inhibitory effect of the ozone layer in the stratosphere is significantly the result of nitrogen and hydrocarbon oxides the weaker the halogen, the higher its amount.Materials and Methods Portulaca oleracea seeds were prepared by Pakan Isfahan Company. The aim of this study was the effect of ultraviolet rays at different levels (UV-C: 0, 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, and 700 nm) on the activity of photosynthetic pigments and biochemical traits of portulaca oleracea in factorial in a completely randomized design with three replications. After transferring the seeds of portulaca oleracea, the healthy and uniform seeds of this plant were sterilized in 15% sodium hypochlorite solution for 154 minutes and then washed thoroughly with distilled water and placed in a petri dish for germination. Moisture was supplied through filter paper soaked in distilled water. The seeds were planted in pots filled with cocopeat and perlite evenly and watered for 20 days with a half-strength Hoagland solution. Plants were grown for 20 days at a temperature of 30 ± 2 ° C and a light period of 8.16 (light / dark, respectively). Plants for one week, every other day, and for 3 minutes each time by two fluorescent lamps with a wavelength of 260 nm exposed to ultraviolet C (at a distance of 30 cm from the UV light source with an intensity of 27 (w / m2) were located. The traits studied in this study included chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, total chlorophyll, carotenoids, phenol, flavonoids, and antioxidant activity. In this study, the effect of ultraviolet light on the activity of photosynthetic pigments and biochemical traits of portulaca oleracea was investigated factorially in a completely randomized design with three replications.Results and Discussion The results of the mean comparison showed that the UV treatment of chlorophyll a, b, total chlorophyll, carotenoid of portulaca oleracea was reduced compared to the control; However, UV treatment of portulaca oleracea significantly increased phenol, flavonoids, and antioxidants compared to the control. The effect of different doses of ultraviolet rays on phenol and portulaca oleracea antioxidants showed that the UV-C highest and lowest were 700 and 100 nm, respectively. Decreases in carotenoid content can result in either inhibition of pigment synthesis or their breakdown and degradation. The results of this report indicate significant changes in phenols and flavonoids as compounds it absorbed ultraviolet rays compared to control cells.Conclusion It can be said that excessive exposure to radiation may affect chlorophyll levels by inhibiting chlorophyll biosynthesis or accelerating its degradation. Oxygen is an electron receptor in the electron transport system that produces energy from adenosine triphosphate (ATP) in the body. Under certain conditions, oxygen can be converted to a single electron, creating free radicals. When oxygen is converted to a single electron, it is called active oxygen (ROS). These free radicals cause oxidative stress in plants which oxidative stress leads to damage to macromolecules such as DNA, proteins and so on. Environmental stresses, including UV radiation, produce active oxygen species (ROS) such as hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), superoxide (O2-), and hydroxyl radicals (OH), which cause oxidative stress and cause damage to cells, such as DNA. And cause the destruction of these compounds. The plant contains compounds that act as active antioxidants and sweep away active oxygen. In the present study, the observed increase in phenols, flavonoids and antioxidants indicates an increase in the production of free radicals under ultraviolet radiation and shows that the production of these radicals is more than the plant's defense capacity and has caused damage to plant biological membranes. In summary, the application of controlled ultraviolet light stress can provide a new alternative strategy to increase the productivity of the portulaca oleracea plant. Modulating UV-C light in agricultural systems is a promising tool to increase crop production.
Medicinal Plants
S. Charbandi; F. Zaefarian; V. Akbarpour; M. Kaveh
Abstract
Introduction: The tendency to produce aromatic and medicinal plants and the demand for natural products is increasing especially in the world. Ecological agriculture (Agroecology) of medicinal plants guarantees their quality and reduces the possibility of negative effects on their quality and yield. ...
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Introduction: The tendency to produce aromatic and medicinal plants and the demand for natural products is increasing especially in the world. Ecological agriculture (Agroecology) of medicinal plants guarantees their quality and reduces the possibility of negative effects on their quality and yield. Evaluation of different plant nutrition systems is one of the most important principles in the production planning of medicinal plants in order to achieve high yield and quality of effective ingredients. Proper fertilizer management is one of the most important factors in agricultural production. Identification of fertilizers which are compatible with nature and are suitable for plant growth could have favorable effects on quantitative and qualitative indices of the plant. Organic fertilizers are genuine and risk-free products that could be suitable for agricultural sustainability. Soil organic matter improves fertility and water retention, provides proper ventilation, long-term storage of plant nutrients and microorganisms, so replacing chemical fertilizers with fertilizers such as vermicompost and biofertilizer can reduce the above-mentioned effects. Biofertilizers are one of the operations that is nowadays in accordance with the principles of sustainable agriculture for soil fertility. Biofertilizers include the compost of one or more types of useful soil organisms or as metabolic by-products of these organisms that are used to provide the plant with the nutrients it needs in an agroecosystem.Materials and Methods: In order to investigate the effect of biochar, organic and biological fertilizers on the quantity and quality of Ocimum bacilicum L., a factorial experiment was done in a randomized complete block design with three replications. Experimental treatments included two levels of biochar (0 and 20 ton ha-1) and five levels of fertilizers (vermicompost (10 ton ha-1), Mycorrhiza, Azotobacter, Pseudomonas and no fertilizer application). Prior to planting sweet basil seed, biofertilizers and vermicompost were mixed with soil to the depth of 15 cm. Mycorrhizal fungi were mixed with seed. Azotobacter and Pseudomonas bacteria were also incubated with seeds (seed inoculated). It should be added that in this study no chemicals were used to control weeds and pests.Results and Discussion: According to the results, the highest plant height and number of main branches were obtained in biochar application with vermicompost (49.37 cm and 7, respectively), which was significantly better than other treatments. The interaction effect of biochar and fertilizer had a significant effect on fresh and dry weight of leaf and stem. Mean comparison of treatments showed that the highest leaf and stem fresh weight were obtained in biochar + Pseudomonas application (792 and 876 g m-2, respectively), which had no significant difference with biochar + vermicompost; and also, the maximum leaf dry weight and stem dry weight were obtained in biochar with Pseudomonas application (166 and 175 g m-2, respectively). The interaction between biochar and fertilizer on phenol, flavonoids and antioxidant activity of basil showed a significant differences between treatments.Conclusion: In general, the results showed that the use of biochar and biological and organic fertilizers could be effective in both the quality and quantity of sweet bail, where, the use of the bacterium Azobacter and Pseudomonas with biochar had the greatest effect on the quality and quantity of sweet bail. Finally, it could be concluded that the combined use of biochar with biological fertilizers had significant impacts on the quantitative and qualitative traits of sweet bail in ecological or low input agricultural.
Medicinal Plants
M. Naseri; A. Abbasian
Abstract
Introduction: Saffron is an annual plant that grows based on underground organs of the plant as corms and can be used for several years under farming conditions. This plant is the main source of income for many farmers in rural areas of eastern Iran. Khorasan Razavi province with 76% of cultivation area ...
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Introduction: Saffron is an annual plant that grows based on underground organs of the plant as corms and can be used for several years under farming conditions. This plant is the main source of income for many farmers in rural areas of eastern Iran. Khorasan Razavi province with 76% of cultivation area and 74% of production has the first place in saffron production. Among the different cities of Khorasan Razavi province, Torbat Heydariyeh city with a cultivation area of about 8 thousand hectares out of 87 thousand hectares of the whole province has an area equivalent to about 10%. Contrary to the level of cultivation, the average yield in Khorasan Razavi province is 3.4 kg / ha, which is 0.22 kg / ha lower than the national average. Considering that the level of saffron that is increasing in many parts of the country and on the other hand, according to the long-term average statistics, its yield has decreased significantly. The need for continuous monitoring of planting level and yield is one of the most issues for managers and programs. This research was conducted using the information of referral letters issued for guaranteed purchase of saffron in the Torbat-e Heydariyeh Kadkan town to analyze and evaluate the performance of saffron in 2017 and 2019.Materials and Methods: In order to study saffron cultivation and its yield in the Kadkan town, cultivation data and yield data in the years 2017 and 2019 were analyzed. Guaranteed purchase information of saffron was used to collect data. In 2017, 95 people (at the level of 132 hectares) and in 2019, 173 people (at the level of 257 hectares) of saffron farmers in the Kadkan town to deliver saffron to guaranteed shopping centers (Rural Cooperative Office of Torbat Heydariyeh) to Jihad Agricultural Center. They came to Torbat-e Heydarieh Kadkan and received a letter of introduction. The information of these referrals (area under cultivation, dry stigma yield, production rate, village name and amount of saffron delivered) was used to analyze saffron cultivation in Torbat-e Heydariyeh, Kadkan town in 2017 to 2019.Results and Discussion: Based on the results of saffron yield in the Kadkan town in 2017 and 2019, 5.17 and 8.64 kg of dry stigma obtained, respectively. The amount of saffron delivered to shopping centers in 2017 and 2019 was 532 and 1270 kg, respectively. According to the results of saffron yield in 2017 compared to 2019 due to climatic and managerial conditions, has increased by 67%. Fitting of cultivation and yield data of 95 saffron farms in 2017 using a linear model showed that with increasing the area under saffron cultivation, yield decreases R = 0.26 **. Also in the polynomial model. Second degree, with increasing the area under cultivation to the level of five hectares, the yield decreased and since then showed a slight increasing trend (R = 0.26 **). Fitting of cultivation data and yield of 173 saffron farms in 2019 based on the second degree polynomial model R = 0.24 24 ** showed that with increasing the area under cultivation up to seven hectares, the yield has decreased and since then it has an increasing trend. In the third degree polynomial model R = 0.28**, like the second degree of yield, decreased to seven hectares and then increased and then was fixed. Considering that the cultivation area of the most farms in Kadkan town was between 0.1 and 2 hectares and farms up to two hectares in the villages of Kadkan townt, it is non-mechanized, therefore, in these farms, the management of smaller farms could be done more easily and the increase in yield for these farms was predictable.Conclusion: According to the results of the present study, the yield of saffron in 2017 and 2016 was 5.16 and 8.64 kg / ha, respectively. Considering that the average yield of saffron in the country is 3.62 kg per hectare (Statistics of the Ministry of Jihad Agriculture, 2018), the yield of saffron in the Torbat-e-Heydariyeh Kadkan town can be considered as high yield in the country, which is probably due to climatic conditions and is managerial. 67% increase in yield in 2019 compared to 2017due to climatic reasons (increased rainfall) and management (nutrition, agriculture, training, irrigation, proper planting date, use of corms with appropriate weight, disinfection of corms at planting, Summer irrigation, weed control).
Medicinal Plants
F. Moayedi; S. Kordi; A. A. Mehrabi; S. Dastborhan
Abstract
Introduction: Sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) is an annual herbaceous plant from labiatae family. The amount and chemical composition of essential oil of sweet basil depends on genetics, growing season, environmental factors and plant growth stage. Nitrogen is one of the most important nutrients required ...
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Introduction: Sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) is an annual herbaceous plant from labiatae family. The amount and chemical composition of essential oil of sweet basil depends on genetics, growing season, environmental factors and plant growth stage. Nitrogen is one of the most important nutrients required by plants. This element plays an essential role in the synthesis of amino acids and proteins and is part of the structure of leaf chlorophyll and some plant hormones. Nitrogen application can significantly increase the growth and yield of medicinal plants in different climatic conditions and affect the quantitative and qualitative properties of essential oils. The results of various studies have shown that nitrogen significantly alters the amount of essential oils in basil. Despite the positive effect of nitrogen on improving plant growth and yield, excessive use of nitrogen fertilizer can have a negative effect on the absorption of other elements. On the other hand, high amounts of water-soluble nitrogen lead to groundwater pollution. Therefore, determining the appropriate amount of nitrogen fertilizer in proportion to the nutritional needs of crops, in addition to improving the quantity and quality of yield, reduces damage to agricultural systems and the environment. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of different amounts of nitrogen fertilizer on vegetative yield and quantitative and qualitative characteristics of essential oil of four basil cultivars and to introduce the best cultivar in Khorramabad climate.Materials and Methods: This experiment was performed as a factorial split plot in time in a randomized complete block design with three replications during 2016 growing season in the Agricultural Research Station of Khorramabad. Experimental treatments included four sweet basil cultivars (Italian Large Leaf, Cinnamon, Sweet Thai and Mobarakeh), three levels of nitrogen fertilizer (0, 100 and 200 kg ha-1 chemical nitrogen fertilizer) and three harvests. Nitrogen fertilizer (from urea source) was added to the plots in two stages (half of the fertilizer before seeds planting and the rest after the first harvest) based on the treatments. Basil plants were harvested three times at the beginning of flowering. Traits measured in this study included chlorophyll index, leaf/stem ratio, leaf dry weight, total plant dry weight, percentage and yield of essential oil and determination of chemical composition of essential oil. To extract the essential oil, water distillation method and Clevenger apparatus were used. To determine the main constituents of essential oil, all treatments related to a given repetition were chosen in second harvest were used. Gas chromatography with mass spectrometer was used to identify the compounds of basil essential oil. Analysis of variance of data was done using SAS ver. 9 and mean comparison was performed based on the Duncan's multiple range test at 5% probability level using MSTAT-C software. Figures were drawn by excel software.Results and Discussion: The results of the present research showed that the highest leaf/stem ratio (1.8) was obtained from applying 100 and 200 kg ha-1 of urea fertilizer in Italian Large Leaf cultivar in the first harvest. Among the studied basil cultivars, Italian Large Leaf cultivar had the highest leaf dry weight, total dry weight, percentage of essential oil and essential oil yield. The maximum leaf chlorophyll index was related to Sweet Thai and Cinnamon cultivars and the minimum chlorophyll index, percentage of essential oil and essential oil yield was related to Mobarakeh cultivar. Consumption of urea fertilizer was associated with a significant improvement in vegetative growth and as a result, basil yield increased. Although the essential oil percentage of basil cultivars under control treatment was higher than plants that were fed with nitrogen fertilizer, but the highest essential oil yield was obtained from application of 100 kg ha-1 urea fertilizer, which shows the greater effect of dry yield on essential oil yield compared to the percentage of essential oil. In all studied traits, the maximum value was related to the second harvest and the minimum amount (except the essential oil percentage) was allocated to the first harvest. In chemical analysis of essential oils obtained from young leaves and shoots of basil cultivars under different fertilization treatments, 29 to 35 compounds were identified. The maximum concentration of major constituents of essential oils (except 1-8-cineol, methyl cinnamate and methyl chavicol) was related to the control treatment (no fertilizer application).Conclusion: Since there was no significant difference between the levels of 100 and 200 kg ha-1 of urea in terms of total dry weight and the highest essential oil yield was obtained from the treatment of 100 kg ha-1 of urea fertilizer, Italian Large Leaf cultivar and consumption of 100 kg ha-1 of urea fertilizer can be used in environmental conditions similar to Khorramabad.
