Asian Plant Research Journal

Phytochemical Profiling of Syzygium haemisphericum Leaf Extract Using FT-IR and GC–MS Techniques

Kathiravan Asokan — 2025-09-24

Syzygium haemisphericum, a medicinal plant native to the Western Ghats of India, is traditionally utilized for the management of diabetes and kidney stones due to its hypoglycemic and bioactive properties. This research presents the phytochemical analysis, Fourier Transform Infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) of the methanol leaf extract. The presence of carbohydrates, tannins, alkaloids, vitamin C, terpenoids, and resins has been revealed through phytochemical analysis. The FT-IR technique identifies all the functional groups, including alcohols, esters, carboxylic acids, ketones, and aromatic amines. A GC-MS study identified six bioactive compounds, including neophytadiene, hexadecanoic acid, and globulol. The findings corroborate the notion that the plant possesses medicinal capabilities and indicate the necessity for further investigation to identify and characterize its bioactive constituents.

Pharmaceutical Perspective of Natural Products from Vernonia cinerea (L.) Less.: Ethnomedicinal Uses, Phytochemistry, Pharmacology and Future Prospects

Parayangattil Subramanian Smitha — 2025-08-30

Vernonia cinerea (L.) Less., belonging to the family Asteraceae, is one of the ten sacred herbs that comprise 'Dasapushpa' according to Hindu mythology and is commonly used in traditional rejuvenating healthcare practices during the monsoon season in Kerala. V. cinerea is reported to contain about 92 bioactive compounds, including sesquiterpenoids, flavonoids, alkaloids, and phenolic acids, which could target conditions such as diabetes, cancer, and respiratory disorders. Some key compounds identified include vernolepin, vernolide, and other flavonoids, known for their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties. Despite numerous studies on the ethnopharmacological and biological properties of V. cinerea, none have provided a comprehensive analysis of all its details and recently discovered aspects, including patents. This review presents a comprehensive and up-to-date cross-sectional analysis of the pharmaceutical potential of V. cinerea, which can inform future research aimed at discovering natural products with therapeutic potential from this medicinal herb. The research gaps identified include a lack of sufficient clinical trials and formulation studies, which are essential for determining optimal delivery methods and dosages for future potential drug formulations. Various scientific databases, including PubMed, ScienceDirect, SpringerLink, Google Scholar, and Web of Science, were used to collect scientific literature on V. cinerea published since 2010. This review also seeks to promote awareness of the medicinal potential of this underutilised plant species and support its conservation.

A Review on Medicinal Plants the Nature’s Pharmacy: Challenges and Progress in Conservation

Preeti Sharma — 2025-09-15

Medicinal plants continue to play a vital role in healthcare systems worldwide, offering a rich source of bioactive compounds that support both traditional therapies and the discovery of modern drugs. This review brings together recent evidence on their ecological value, pharmacological potential, and socio-economic importance, while drawing attention to the urgent challenges posed by habitat destruction, overharvesting, and climate change. Current findings indicate that many species face rapid decline, threatening not only biodiversity but also the continuity of indigenous knowledge and community livelihoods. To address this, the review discusses sustainable conservation measures such as in situ and ex situ protection, domestication and cultivation practices, community-led initiatives, and the application of modern biotechnological tools for genetic resource preservation. By integrating these approaches, conservation can ensure a steady supply of plant-derived resources, maintain cultural traditions, and open new pathways for therapeutic innovation.

GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT

A Review on the Mosquitocidal Effect of Azadirachta indica (A.) Juss., Eucalyptus globulus Labill., and Hyptis suaveolens (L.) Poit

Fatima Dantanko — 2025-09-25

Mosquitoes are vectors for a number of infectious diseases, including malaria, dengue fever, Zika virus and chikungunya; hence, they pose a significant threat to public health globally. The rising incidence of insecticide resistance in mosquito populations as well as the environmental and health hazards associated with synthetic pesticides, has led to the demand for sustainable and ecofriendly insecticidal alternatives. Botanical insecticides have been suggested as viable alternatives to synthetic insecticides. However, they vary in their insecticidal efficacy, mode of action and toxicity to nontarget organisms. This study reviews available reports on the mosquitocidal properties of three medicinal plants; Azadirachta indica (neem), Eucalyptus globulus (eucalyptus), and Hyptis suaveolens (bush mint). It examines their efficacy against various mosquito life stages and highlights the active compounds responsible for the insecticidal properties of these. Furthermore, the limitations associated with the use of these plants for mosquito control are clearly outlined and recommendations are made on strategies to improve prospective bio-insecticidal products. Overall, the finding provided a foundation for developing plant-based insecticides that can be integrated into public health and vector control programs to sustainably reduce mosquito-borne disease transmission.

Bioactive Compounds in Moringa oleifera and Their Role in Preventing Dental Caries

Arushna R. — 2025-10-15

Moringa oleifera, referred to as the drumstick or Miracle tree, has become well-known for its abundant nutritional and therapeutic benefits, especially in traditional medical practices. Flavonoids, phenolic acids, glucosinolates, isothiocyanates, tannins, and saponins are the bioactive phytochemicals found in various parts of the plant. The leaves, in particular, support its antibacterial, anti-quorum, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. M. oleifera is employed as a natural remedy to prevent dental caries, a common chronic disease primarily caused by Streptococcus mutans, Streptococcus sobrinus, Lactobacillus acidophilus, and other genera including Actinomyces, Bifidobacterium, Scardovia and Enterobacter species. Traditional therapies, such as surgical excision of decaying tissue and synthetic drugs like Chlorhexidine, can be invasive, expensive, and harmful to the oral microbiome.

This review highlights the anti-cariogenic potential of M. oleifera through its various mechanisms. The bioactive substances in M. oleifera lessen the formation of acid, prevent bacterial growth and biofilm formation, disrupt quorum sensing, and shield oral tissues from inflammation and oxidative damage. Significantly, M. oleifera extracts have shown potent inhibitory effects on S. mutans biofilms; studies have shown ethanol extracts have superior efficacy and formulations such as herbal toothpaste or topical gels show comparable efficacy to Chlorhexidine while minimizing side effects like mucosal irritation and tooth staining. Furthermore, the plant has shown promise in a non-invasive caries management strategy, especially during post-pandemic oral health practices, when used in green synthesis of herbal toothpaste and nano-silver fluoride formulations.

Although M. oleifera is an affordable natural remedy, it has its drawbacks, like bitterness, neurotoxic substances in roots, and a lack of standardized doses. Despite this, its high level of bioactivity indicates that it may be used as an adjuvant in dental care. To validate and optimize its use in oral health products, further research is a necessity.

Effects of Storage Time on the Quality Attributes of White Wormwood Herb

Emad Saleh Hamed — 2025-08-29

White wormwood (Artemisia herba-alba Asso.) is a medicinal plant of great importance, widely used for its health benefits. An experiment was conducted on dry herb to investigate the effect of storage duration on its qualitative characteristics. The study was carried out under room temperature conditions using a randomized complete block design with five storage periods: 0, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months. The results showed no significant decrease in dry weight up to 6 months of storage, followed by a significant decline thereafter. There was a significant reduction in the percentage of essential oil, with the smallest loss occurring at 3 months and the greatest loss at 12 months. α-Thujone was the predominant component of the essential oil, followed by β-thujone. Both compounds declined progressively with prolonged storage, reaching their lowest levels at 12 months. Based on these findings, it is recommended that white wormwood not be stored for more than 3 months at room temperature in order to preserve its quality attributes.

Effect of Age and Depth of Seedlings of Kasturi Aromatic Rice on Fodder and Yield Performance during Aman Season in Bangladesh

Nawrin Satter Jesia — 2025-09-08

A field experiment was conducted at the Agronomy Field Laboratory, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh from July to December, 2023 to evaluate the effect of age and depth of seedlings on the yield performance of Kasturi aromatic rice in aman season. The experiment comprised of four ages of seedlings viz. 25 days, 30 days, 35 days and 40 days and, depth of seedlings viz. 2 cm, 4 cm, 6 cm. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design with three replications. The highest grain yield (2.76 t ha^-1) and straw yield (6.52 t ha^-1) were achieved from 30-day old seedlings. On the other hand, the lowest number of grain yield (2.34 t ha^-1) and straw yield (4.35 t ha^-1) were obtained from 40-day old seedlings. The highest grain yield (2.67 t ha^-1) and straw yield (5.76 t ha^-1) were obtained from 4 cm depth of seedlings whereas the lowest grain yield (2.48 t ha^-1) and straw yield (5.00 t ha^-1) were obtained from 6 cm depth of seedlings. The highest grain yield (3.01 t ha^-1) and straw yield (6.81 t ha^-1) were obtained from the combination of 30-day old seedlings with 4 cm depth. Thus, 30-day old seedlings and 4 cm depth of seedlings appeared as the best combination for obtaining the highest grain yield of Kasturi aromatic rice in aman season.

Natural Rhizogenesis Boosters for the Vegetative Propagation and Conservation of Dalbergia baronii and Dalbergia normandii Species

T. A. Raveloarison — 2025-09-12

The Dalbergia genus belongs to the Fabaceae family. Four species of Madagascar’s Dalbergia are called rosewood, including D. baronii Baker, D. louvelii R. Vig., D. maritima R. Vig., D. normandii. Their woods are classified in the first category of natural forest wood in Madagascar. Rosewoods are becoming endangered due to overexploitation and the destruction of their habitat. For this reason, a vegetative propagation technique has been developed through this work in order to optimize the vegetative propagation and to ensure the perpetuation of the two species in their natural habitat. This method consists of macerating Dalbergia cuttings in two biostimulants, of Aloe macroclada gel or Curcuma longa powder, for 30 minutes before planting. To verify the effectiveness of the technique, control cuttings were grown at the same time as the macerated cuttings. The two-way ANOVA results revealed significant effects on treatment, and their interaction for both root and shoot development (p < 0.001). Among the treatments, Curcuma longa powder notably enhanced root and growth development, particularly in D. baronii, while Aloe macroclada gel was most effective in D. normandii. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) supported these findings, with the first principal component (PC1) explaining 91.5% of the total variance, followed by PC2 at 8.5%. The biplot clearly distinguished the treated groups, highlighting the superior performance of Curcuma longa in both root and growth development. This study demonstrated the significant influence of two natural rhizogenesis boosters, Curcuma longa powder and Aloe macroclada gel, on the vegetative propagation of Dalbergia baronii and Dalbergia normandii. Therefore, obtaining a new Dalbergia plant is possible even if we do not have seeds, and subsequently ensuring their conservation. These preliminary results promising for the case of Dalbergia normandii, which is currently endangered.

Genetic Variability, Traits Association and Path Analysis of Recombinant Inbred Lines in Mungbean (Vigna radiata (L) Wilczek)

Cho Cho Mar — 2025-09-20

To estimate the genetic variability, characters association and path analysis for the various characters, the characters of 39 recombinant inbred lines (RILs) were evaluated from pre-monsoon season crops cultivated in 2024 at the Department of Plant Breeding, Physiology and Ecology, Yezin, Nay Pyi Taw.

The experimental design was a randomized block design (RBD) with three replications.

The results demonstrated that there were significant differences in all traits among the studied RILs, indicating that the tested RILs were genetically distinct.

The estimates of genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) and phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) were high for seed yield plant^-1. The high estimates of heritability were recorded for plant height, number of pods plant^-1, pod length, 100 seed weight and yield plant^-1. High genetic advance as a percentage of mean along with high heritability was observed for plant height, number of pods plant^-1 and yield plant^-1. The correlation of yield plant^-1 was positive and significant at phenotypic and genotypic level with characters viz., plant height, number of pods plant^-1 and number of seeds pod^-1. Path analysis revealed that at genotypic level, the traits with high positive direct effect on seed yield were number of pods plant^-1 followed by number of seeds pod^-1, plant height, 100 seed weight and day to 50% flowering. Hence, these traits should be prioritized to enhance yield in mungbean through genotype selection.

The study confirmed substantial genetic variability among RILs providing a strong base for mungbean improvement.

Comparative Analysis of Minerals and Vitamins in Cajanus cajan and Chromolaena odorata Leaves

Obiajulu Christian Ezeigwe — 2025-09-20

Minerals and Vitamins are key bioactive compounds found in medicinal plants that contribute to their therapeutic action in the treatment of diseases. They are essential for maintaining health, supporting immune function, and preventing oxidative stress. The study aims to compare the mineral and vitamin content of Cajanus cajan (pigeon pea) leaves and Chromolaena odorata (Siam weed) leaves, both known for their diverse medicinal properties. The mineral content was analyzed using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (AAS) after acid digestion of the samples, while Vitamins were estimated using spectrophotometric methods. The results revealed that C. cajan leaves were richer in sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, zinc, selenium, copper, and manganese, whereas C. odorata leaves had higher iron, nickel, and cobalt content. Specifically, C. cajan had significantly (p<0.05) higher concentrations of sodium and potassium compared to C. odorata leaves. C. odorata leaves presented higher values of vitamins A, C, D, E, B₁, B₂, B_6, and B₁₂. Vitamin A content was very high in C. odorata compared to that of C. cajan leaves. The findings of the comparative analysis indicate that C. cajan leaves are richer in essential minerals, while C. odorata leaves contain significantly higher levels of vitamins. These findings would bring about potential implications for complementary use in nutraceutical and medicinal formulations to ensure maximum mineral and vitamin dietary intake from both plants. The higher vitamin content in C. odorata suggests its superior efficacy in improving antioxidant activity and various physiological functions.

The Effectiveness of Neem (Azadirachta indica Juss) and Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis Miller) Leaf Extracts against Cucumber Aphids (Myzus persicae Sulzer) and Melon Flies (Bactrocera cucurbitae Coquillet) in a Field Condition

Happiness S. Malolo — 2025-09-20

Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) plays a pivotal role in global agriculture, contributing significantly to food security and economic prosperity. However, insect pests such as melon flies (Bactrocera cucurbitae Coquillet) and aphids (Myzus persicae Sulzer) threaten cucumber production. While synthetic pesticides are effective, their detrimental effects on human health, wildlife, and ecosystems have prompted interest in alternative, natural pest control methods, such as neem (Azadirachta indica Juss) and aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis Miller). The experiment was conducted on a cucumber field at Sokoine University of Agriculture (SUA), Tanzania, from July to November 2023. A Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three treatments arranged in a split-split plot structure was used. The treatment consisted of 40%, 60%, and 80% of neem and aloe vera leaf extracts respectively, as well as a control (water). Each treatment was replicated three times to ensure reliability. Neem and aloe vera extract at 60% and 80% concentrations significantly promoted plant growth. Furthermore, fewer instances of fruit rotting and deformation were observed. Neem extracts also resulted in higher- quality- and -larger fruits compared to the control with the smaller, lighter and higher case of fruit rotting and deformation. These findings suggest that neem and aloe vera leaf extracts, particularly at 60% and 80%, can be an effective and eco-friendly alternative to synthetic insecticides in controlling cucumber pests, improving plant health, and increasing yield. This approach can be scaled for use in other crops, promoting sustainable agriculture practices that protect human health, conserve biodiversity, and reduce environmental impact.

Genetic Diversity of African Oil Palm (Elaeis guineensis Jacq.) Accessions Across Agro-climatic Regions of Tanzania by Microsatellite (SSR) Markers

Fransis Joseph Masanja — 2025-09-25

The genetic diversity of African oil palm (Elaeis guineensis Jacq.) accessions in four agroecological zones of Tanzania using 16 microsatellite (SSR) markers was conducted for breeding. The study involved sixty-five (65) oil palm genotypes selected from the Tabora, Mbeya, Morogoro, and Kigoma regions. The CTAB and PCR were used for extract genomic DNA, and amplification, respectively. Analysed result showed that, at an average of 1.64 alleles per locus, 23 alleles were found across 14 polymorphic markers. Polymorphism information content (PIC) was varied from 0.0000 to 0.4192, indicating low to moderately informative markers. A limited genetic base among the genotypes was confirmed from the low mean gene diversity of 0.1748. Apart from accessions being categorized into five primary clusters, their band were not exactly corresponded with their geographic origin, suggesting historical seed exchanges and gene flow between regions. Limited allelic richness and moderate genetic diversity underscore the necessity of conserving and larger germplasm collection initiatives to strengthen the genetic foundation for upcoming breeding initiatives. The identified better oil palm genotypes are the bases for sustainable farming and genetic enhancement breeding programs in Tanzania.

This study assessed the genetic diversity of African oil palm (Elaeis guineensis jacq.) accessions in four agro-climatic regions of Tanzania. Microsatellite (SSR) markers used to provide insightful for breeding programs. The study involved sixty-five (65) oil palm accessions selected from Tabora, Mbeya, Kigoma, and Morogoro regions. A total of 23 alleles were found across 14 polymorphic markers, with an average of 1.64 alleles per locus. Polymorphic Information Content (PIC) ranged from 0.0000 to 0.4192, this indicating that, low to moderately informative markers. A limited genetic base among the oil palm accessions was confirmed by the low mean gene diversity of 0.1748. Apart from accessions being categorized into five clusters, their grouping did not exactly correspond to their geographic origin, suggesting historical seed exchanges and gene flow between regions. Limited allelic richness and moderate genetic diversity underscores the necessity of conserving germplasm and establishing larger germplasm collection initiatives to strengthen the genetic bases for next breeding initiatives. The identified promising oil palm genotypes provide and foundation for sustainable farming and genetic enhancement breeding programs in Tanzania.

Morphological and Agronomic Characterization of Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) Germplasm for Breeding Potential and Genetic Diversity Assessment

Fahmina Yasmine — 2025-10-14

Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) is a crucial oilseed crop in Bangladesh, valued for its high-quality oil and adaptability to diverse environments. This study aimed to characterize 30 sesame germplasm accessions using DUS descriptors to assess genetic diversity. The research was conducted at Bangladesh Agricultural University, focusing on qualitative and quantitative traits. Significant variation was observed in attributes such as plant growth habit (93.33% indeterminate), leaf characteristics (70% green leaf color), and capsule morphology (70% narrow-oblong shape). The quantitative traits revealed a range of plant height from 108.00 cm (BD-6995) to 153.33 cm (BD-6990), with an average of 126.83 cm. Seed yield per plant varied from 2.97 g (BD-6995) to 57.71 g (BD-6979), with an average of 13.09 g. Cluster analysis grouped the germplasm into five distinct clusters, with Kalotil, BD-6979, and BD-6981 standing out for high yield, large seed size, and favorable capsule characteristics. Kalotil exhibited the highest number of capsules (137 per plant) and seeds per capsule (85.67). These findings provide valuable insights for sesame breeding programs, e.g., suitability for hybridization, emphasizing genetic diversity for future crop improvement. The study supports sustainable agricultural development by enhancing the conservation and utilization of sesame germplasm in Bangladesh. Additionally, the findings would be a useful piece in the future to include molecular markers based on individual genotype investigation for detailed characterisation of sesame germplasm.