EFFECT OF ABIOTIC STRESSES ON THE MARKER CONTENT AND THE ACTIVITY OF CENTELLA ASIATICA

Centella asiatica (CA; family Apiaceae) is extensively used in traditional medicine. A regular supply of this plant is required by the herbal drug industry. Hence, the cultivation of this plant is required. The emphasis of the available cultivation practices is on biomass yield. The activity of the plant, however, depends on the amount of bioactive constituents. The production of these secondary metabolites is influenced by biotic as well as abiotic factors. This study was carried out to determine the abiotic factors that enhance the production of secondary metabolites in CA. CA plants were grown in two seasons (i.e., season 1: August to December and season 2: February to June) on different soil types (Clay loamy, Red, Black), and various stresses were applied to the plants. At the end of each season, plant yield, extract yield, asiatic acid content, antioxidant, and acetylcholinesterase inhibition activities were determined. Asiatic acid content was determined by an HPLC method. The results show the varied response of CA plants to seasons, soil, and stresses. CA plants grown in season 2, on black soil under salt stress have the highest asiatic acid content and AChE inhibition. Hence, these conditions may be recommended for incorporation in the cultivation practices of this valuable medicinal plant. This would ensure the commercial supply of plants with higher asiatic acid content and better activity.