Strategies for conservation of endangered medicinal plant withania coagulans

a review

| Posted in: Science

Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Strategies for conservation of endangered medicinal plant withania coagulans
The WJPR includes peer-reviewed publications such as scientific research papers, reports, review articles, company news, thesis reports and case studies in areas of Biology, Pharmaceutical industries and Chemical technology while incorporating ancient fields of knowledge such combining Ayurveda with scientific data.
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Subtitle: a review

Original source:

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Author:

Nishesh Sharma, Indra Rautela, Varnika and Devsmitha


World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:

(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)

Full text available for: Strategies for conservation of endangered medicinal plant withania coagulans

Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research

Doi: 10.20959/wjpr20181-10559

Copyright (license): WJPR: All rights reserved


Download the PDF file of the original publication


Summary of article contents:

Introduction

Withania coagulans, commonly referred to as doda paneer or Indian rennet, is a critically endangered medicinal plant renowned for its various biological and pharmaceutical properties. It serves traditional roles, particularly in cheese production from milk, thanks to its unique milk-coagulating abilities. Despite its significance, W. coagulans faces severe threats due to reproductive failures, low germination rates, and overexploitation for medicinal and commercial purposes. The article highlights the urgent need for conservation strategies and mass propagation techniques to preserve this valuable species.

Enhancing Germination Rates

One of the most pressing issues affecting W. coagulans is its extremely poor germination rate, which hampers natural propagation. Studies have explored different conditions and treatments to enhance germination. For instance, Edalatifard and colleagues (2014) found that seeds incubated in darkness exhibited a significantly higher germination rate than those exposed to light. A maximum germination rate of 94% was achieved on filter paper medium under dark conditions. Additionally, Sharma et al. (2015) demonstrated that pre-treating seeds with sulfuric acid and hydrochloric acid resulted in notable increases in germination rates, suggesting that specific chemical treatments may facilitate improved natural growth.

Micropropagation Techniques

Micropropagation has proven to be an effective tool for mass propagation of W. coagulans, allowing for the establishment of plant tissue culture techniques aimed at healing the endangered status of the species. Numerous studies have reported successful in vitro regeneration using various explants such as nodal and leaf segments. Research demonstrated that different combinations of plant growth regulators (PGRs) yielded varied success in shoot multiplication and callus development. For example, Jain et al. (2009) and Valizadeh and Valizadeh (2009) reported significant regeneration rates using combinations of BAP and IBA, showcasing the potential of tissue culture in scaling up plant numbers.

Inducing Root Formation

Successful rooting of regenerated shoots is crucial for the overall growth and rehabilitation of W. coagulans. Various studies have examined the efficacy of different rooting hormones and media strengths to achieve optimal rooting. Research indicated that half-strength MS medium supplemented with IBA proves more effective than full-strength medium, achieving root induction rates of 100% in some cases. For instance, Purushotham et al. (2015) found remarkable rooting success, corroborating the importance of using appropriate concentrations of auxins for rooting in vitro.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the concerted efforts in research regarding W. coagulans have yielded promising advancements in both germination and propagation techniques, highlighting the vital role of plant tissue culture in the conservation of endangered species. The combination of optimizing germination conditions and employing micropropagation strategies can facilitate the production of large quantities of plants, crucial for rehabilitation in their native habitats. As ongoing research continues to address the challenges faced by W. coagulans, it is imperative to implement these findings to secure the future of this medicinal plant and restore its population in the wild.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What is Withania coagulans and its medicinal significance?

Withania coagulans, also known as Indian rennet or doda paneer, is an important medicinal plant with various biological and pharmaceutical properties attributed to its bioactive compounds. It is traditionally used for cheese production and in treating various health conditions.

Why is Withania coagulans considered critically endangered?

Withania coagulans is critically endangered due to reproductive failure, poor germination rates, and unrestricted collection from wild stands for medicinal and traditional uses, along with habitat destruction.

What strategies are being developed for conserving Withania coagulans?

Strategies for conservation include developing laboratory protocols for enhanced germination rates, mass propagation techniques, and employing micropropagation methods to ensure the survival and rehabilitation of Withania coagulans in its natural habitat.

What are the factors affecting germination rates in Withania coagulans?

Factors affecting germination rates in Withania coagulans include the dioecious nature of the plant, poor seed viability, and environmental conditions such as light exposure and the type of germination medium used.

How can micropropagation methods be beneficial for Withania coagulans?

Micropropagation methods can significantly enhance the mass propagation of Withania coagulans by allowing for the rapid multiplication of plants under controlled conditions, thereby supporting conservation efforts and meeting the demand for the species.

What are some successful tissue culture studies conducted on Withania coagulans?

Numerous tissue culture studies have focused on optimizing growth mediums and plant growth regulators (PGRs) to achieve successful shoot regeneration and root induction, showcasing the effectiveness of these biotechnological techniques in conserving endangered species.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Strategies for conservation of endangered medicinal plant withania coagulans”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.

1) Medium:
In plant tissue culture, 'medium' refers to the nutrient-rich solution or agar used to support the growth of plant cells or tissues in vitro. It typically contains essential minerals, vitamins, sugars, and plant growth regulators (PGRs), allowing for the manipulation of growth conditions to optimize propagation and regeneration of species like Withania coagulans.

2) Study (Studying):
A 'study' in this context refers to scientific research designed to investigate specific aspects related to Withania coagulans, such as its germination rate, propagation techniques, and conservation strategies. Studies offer empirical data and methodologies to enhance understanding of plant biology and inform conservation practices for endangered species.

3) Sharman (Sarma, Sharma, Sarman):
Sharma is likely a reference to one of the researchers involved in the work on Withania coagulans, presenting findings related to this medicinal plant. As an authoritative figure in the studies mentioned, Dr. Nishesh Sharma's contributions help in understanding conservation needs, propagation strategies, and the potential applications of the plant's bioactive compounds.

4) Pur:
The term 'poor' describes the inadequate germination rates and overall health of Withania coagulans populations. Poor germination, attributed to factors such as aging seeds and environmental stressors, hinders the plant's propagation and contributes to its critically endangered status, necessitating research into improving cultivation techniques and conservation efforts.

5) Rathore:
Rathore refers to another researcher associated with studies on Withania coagulans. The contributions made by researchers like Rathore provide crucial insights into effective propagation methods, improving germination rates, and ensuring the survival of this endangered species, advancing our understanding of plant tissue culture methodologies and applications.

6) Shooting:
In this context, 'shooting' pertains to the development of new shoots from plant tissues during micropropagation. This aspect is vital for the regeneration process within tissue cultures, facilitating the multiplication of Withania coagulans and the preservation of its medicinal properties for future use in pharmacology and traditional medicine.

7) Seedling:
Seedling refers to the young plant that emerges after a seed has germinated. In the context of Withania coagulans, the growth of healthy seedlings is a critical step in establishing new plants from cultivated seeds or tissues, connecting to larger efforts aimed at conservation and rehabilitation of endangered plant species.

8) Indian:
The term 'Indian' connects to Withania coagulans' common name, 'Indian rennet' or 'doda paneer,' highlighting its cultural relevance in traditional Indian medicine. It suggests the plant's geographical and ethnobotanical significance within Indian culinary and medicinal practices, affirming the need to conserve this valuable resource.

9) Joshi (Josi):
Joshi is likely another researcher whose work contributes to the studies on Withania coagulans. Collaborations among researchers like Joshi lead to a comprehensive understanding of plant propagation, exploring innovative techniques for enhancing growth and survival rates of endangered species, thus enriching the foundation of botanical research.

10) Table:
The term 'table' refers to the organized presentation of data or results within the study, summarizing findings across various studies related to Withania coagulans. Tables serve to efficiently convey essential information, such as propagation success rates and media formulations, enhancing the clarity and comparability of research outcomes.

11) Milk:
Milk relates to the traditional use of Withania coagulans in cheese production, linked to its coagulating properties. This emphasizes the plant's commercial and cultural importance, underscoring the need for its conservation to maintain these traditional practices while also exploring its broader medicinal applications.

12) Developing:
In this context, 'developing' refers to the process of growth or advancement, particularly concerning plant regeneration techniques. Successful development of plant tissues and seedlings plays a crucial role in conservation efforts of Withania coagulans, aiming to increase its populations and restore its presence in native habitats.

13) Nature:
The term 'nature' signifies the environmental context in which Withania coagulans exists, highlighting the need to preserve natural habitats. Understanding ecological interactions and conditions that support growth are essential for the successful conservation of this endangered species and its surrounding ecosystems.

14) India:
India is significant as the geographical region where Withania coagulans is naturally found, indicating its cultural and traditional importance. The plant's utilization within Indian herbal practices elevates the urgency for conservation efforts, ensuring sustainable access to this vital resource for future generations.

15) Tota:
Doda refers to 'doda paneer,' the common name for Withania coagulans, identifying its cultural relevance. This term conveys the plant's use in local culinary practices and ties it to Indian heritage. Conservation of such culturally significant plants is essential for future sustainability and biodiversity.

16) Afghanistan:
Afghanistan is mentioned as one of the natural habitats of Withania coagulans. The presence of the plant in regions like Afghanistan underscores the need for international collaboration in conservation efforts, as species do not adhere to political boundaries, and preservation requires coordinated action across different countries.

17) Substance:
The term 'substance' denotes individual bioactive components derived from Withania coagulans, which are responsible for its medicinal effects. Research into these active substances drives both scientific inquiry and traditional uses, linking the importance of conservation to the ongoing discovery of new therapeutic potentials.

18) Activity:
Activity refers to the biological effects exhibited by the bioactive compounds in Withania coagulans. Studies on its pharmacological activities highlight the plant's potential for treating various ailments. Recognizing these activities emphasizes the urgency for its conservation to retain medicinal resources for future therapeutic developments.

19) Disease:
Disease signifies the various health issues that Withania coagulans is believed to help alleviate. Understanding the connection between the plant's medicinal properties and disease treatment reinforces the need for its conservation, ensuring that future generations continue to benefit from its therapeutic applications.

20) Varnika:
Varnika is likely another researcher mentioned in the studies concerning Withania coagulans. The inclusion of diverse researchers like Varnika signifies collaboration in addressing challenges related to plant propagation and conservation, ultimately contributing to the knowledge pool necessary for effective preservation strategies.

21) Habitat:
Habitat refers to the natural environment where Withania coagulans thrives. Protecting these habitats is crucial for sustaining the populations of this endangered species, as loss of habitat directly impacts its survival. Conservation efforts must focus on habitat restoration alongside propagation strategies to ensure success.

22) Species:
Species identifies Withania coagulans, highlighting its uniqueness and the conservation challenges it faces. As an endangered species, efforts to study, propagate, and rehabilitate this plant are vital for preserving biodiversity and maintaining the ecological balance within its native habitats.

23) Mathura (Mathur):
Mathur refers to another researcher involved in the investigations regarding Withania coagulans. The collaborative efforts of researchers like Mathur are critical in advancing our understanding of the plant's biology and in devising innovative strategies for its conservation and propagation.

24) Cotton:
Cotton is mentioned in the context of the medium used for germination. It connects to the study of environmental conditions affecting germination rates. Researching different substrates like cotton may lead to innovations improving propagation techniques for Withania coagulans.

25) Indra (Imdra):
Indra likely refers to one of the co-authors studying Withania coagulans, emphasizing the role of various researchers in enhancing knowledge about the plant's conservation needs and propagation methods. Collaborations across different institutions enrich scientific inquiry and drive conservation strategies.

26) Pulse:
Pulse, in this context, might refer to specific experimental treatments during growth studies. The term highlights the importance of optimizing conditions during tests to improve germination rates and facilitate successful propagation of Withania coagulans in laboratory settings.

27) Soil:
Soil refers to the growing medium in which Withania coagulans can be cultivated. An understanding of soil conditions is vital for improving germination and growth rates, as well as for the ecological restoration of natural habitats where this endangered species thrives.

28) Male:
Male indicates the reproductive aspect of Withania coagulans, highlighting its dioecious nature where separate male and female plants exist. This aspect complicates propagation efforts and emphasizes the need for research into its reproductive biology to enhance conservation strategies.

Other Science Concepts:

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Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Strategies for conservation of endangered medicinal plant withania coagulans’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:

Cultural significance, Cultural practice, Biological properties, Bioactive compound, Pharmaceutical activities, Germination Rate, Explant, In vitro condition, Protocol development.

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