Oregano (Origanum vulgare L., Lamiaceae) is a renowned botanical marvel valued for its medicinal and aromatic properties, enriching culinary and therapeutic applications. Despite several studies, the responses of Indian oregano at different phenological stages under the agroclimatic conditions of Uttarakhand foothills are still not well characterized. To address this gap, a field experiment was set up with the aim of developing appropriate cultivating practices. Plants were harvested at four phenological stages: before bud initiation, bud initiation, flower stage, and maturity. Samples were examined in both fresh as well as in the dried form. The findings demonstrate a dynamic interplay of phenological stages, plant parts, and drying that significantly shapes the quantity and quality of oregano oil. The experiment indicates that harvesting at the flowering or full maturity stage is optimal for achieving the highest essential oil yield. Among the plant parts, flowers and leaves contain the majority of oil, with flowers showing the highest carvacrol content (65.31

Optimizing nutrient management is essential for enhancing both the productivity and essential oil quality of short-duration vetiver (Chrysopogon zizanioides (L.) Roberty) varieties. Despite this importance, limited data exist regarding the fertilizer requirements of early-maturing genotypes, underscoring the need for systematic evaluation to identify nutrient levels that maximize yield and nutrient use efficiency. Accordingly, the present study was conducted at the CIMAP Research Center, Bengaluru, during the 2021-22 and 2022-23 growing seasons with the objective to determine the optimal inorganic fertilizer dose for the early-maturing vetiver variety 'CIM-Khusinolika,' aiming to achieve higher root yield and enhanced essential oil composition. The study showed that applying NPK fertilizer at 125:50:50 kg ha-1 significantly enhanced vetiver performance and nutrient use efficiency. This treatment (125:50:50 kg ha-1) produced the tallest plants (139.68 cm), the highest number of tillers per plant (66.34), and longest roots (57.29 cm), outperforming 150:50:50 kg ha-1 and control. Dry root weight peaked at 30.09 q ha-1 with 125:50:50 application, slightly higher than 29.08 q ha-1 recorded with 150:50:50. Agronomic use efficiency of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium ranged from 8.92 to 12.72, 23.18 to 32.32, and 23.38 to 31.32, respectively. Applying 40 kg ha-1 of potassium and phosphorus increased yield by about 108% and 111%. Essential oil content ranged from 1.96 to 2.09%, with key compounds like Khusinol (47.60-50.40%), (E)-Isovalencenol (4.83-5.50%), alpha-Vetivone (3.57-4.30%), and beta-Vetivone (2.00-2.43%). Thus, appropriately nutrient application is crucial to maximize the economic benefit and reduce the detrimental environmental impact of over-fertilization.

This study, conducted at CSIR-CIMAP Research Centre Purara, Bageshwar, Uttarakhand, India, assessed genetic diversity among 30 fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) genotypes during 2021-22 and 2022-23. High genotypic (GCV) and phenotypic (PCV) coefficients of variation were observed for dry herb weight per hectare (47.04 % and 47.43 %, respectively) and plant height. Heritability ranged from 0.851 (root length) to 0.998 (number of leaves), with significant genetic advance. Mahalanobis D2 analysis grouped genotypes into five clusters, while PCA highlighted genetic diversity. Path analysis showed minimal residual effects (0.26079), confirming trait reliability. The MGIDI index identified genotypes UK-17, UK-18, UK-22, and UK-23 as superior, providing robust fenugreek genotypes for further exploitation in breeding high-yielding, resilient varieties adapted to the west-central Himalayas, with substantial potential to enhance crop improvement and sustainable agriculture.

Prishniparni [Uraria picta (Jacq.) Desv. ex DC.; Family: Fabaceae; 2n = 22] is a ‘Dashmoola’ drug herb used in Ayurvedic herbal preparation, viz. Dasamularishta, Amratarisht, etc., to treat postnatal diseases of women, a variety of gynaecological problems, oral sores in children, general fatigue, gonorrhoea, cough, cold, fever, mental problems and fatigue. Primary and secondary biologically active metabolites, viz. fatty acids, phenolics, steroids, triterpenoids, alkaloids and flavonoids, have been reported in U picta. The major bioactive flavonoid rhoifolin (Apigenin-7-o-neohesperidoside) is considered a marker compound for qualitative and quantitative standardization of the herb. U. picta (Jacq.) Desv. was classified as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN Red Data Book in the year 2010 (and subsequent). Despite its global “Least Concern” status, Prishniparni may be locally endangered in some regions of India due to factors like an increase in demand by the pharmaceutical/herbal drug industry and overexploitation of its wild sources. Since the WHO and Herbal Pharmacopoeia emphasize quality standardization of medicinal plants, its formulation in terms of active ingredients rhoifolin, efforts were taken towards the development of rhoifolin-rich genetically improved genotype of Prishniparni among 23 viable germplasms of the 52 collected germplasms during 2016-2017 from India. Through various evaluation trials (IET in 2020 & 2021, BST in 2022 and PST in 2023 & 2024) and morpho-chemical characterization of 23 germplasm during 2017-2019, CSIR-CIMAP has developed and released a variety of CIM-Rhoi Gold of Prishniparni, which not only produces higher herb yield (about 14 q/ha dry herb) but also has higher rhoifolin content (1.0–1.5%). Keywords: Dashmoola, Germplasm, Prishniparni, Quality attributes, Rhoifolin, Variety, Yield

Intercropping, the practice of growing multiple crops together, improves resource efficiency by optimizing sunlight, water, and nutrient use. This approach enhances sustainability by reducing plant competition and fostering mutual benefits, often leading to higher yield. Patchouli (Pogostemon cablin (Blanco) Benth) is an important aromatic crop that thrives in partial shade for growth and development but optimizing its productivity while maintaining or enhancing yield remains challenging. Field trials were carried out in 2022-23 and 2023-24 at CSIR-CIMAP, Research Centre, Bengaluru, to evaluate the biological and economical viability of intercropping systems (patchouli-finger millet, patchouli-cowpea and patchouli-field bean in 1:1 and 1:2 population density ratios and their corresponding sole crop) can improve patchouli productivity and economic viability. The results revealed better performance of patchouli with field bean in co-cultivation (1:2) compared to sole cropping. The combination of patchouli and field bean (1:2) yielded the highest PEY (115.38 L ha(-1)) attributed to exceptional land utilization efficiency (282.22 %), along with superior land equivalent ratio (1.96), land equivalent coefficient (0.93). Additionally, the ATER stood at 1.73, outperforming other cropping systems. The dominance of finger millet over patchouli is evident from the CR value of 1.25 and A value of 0.2. Economic indices, including RVT (1.16), RNR (1.26), MAI (3260.62 US$), REE (1.94), IA (143.89) cost-benefit ratio (1.86), and net returns (4156 US$), were observed to be highest in the field bean intercropping system, closely followed by cowpea. The findings suggest that intercropping patchouli with field bean or cowpea enhances both biological performance and economic returns which enhancing farmer profits through improved resource utilization efficiency. Intercropping medicinal and aromatic crops with food crops is an effective strategy for promoting sustainable farmer livelihoods and boosting the country's GDP. The global demand for essential oils continues to rise, offering significant economic opportunities for farmers and contributing to sustainable development.

The Trigonella genus, encompassing Trigonella foenum gracum L. and other species, exhibits annual growth patterns and thrives in arid and semiarid environments worldwide. India stands at the forefront of Trigonella diversity, showcasing its adaptability to challenging climatic conditions. This meticulous review consolidates existing scientific literature to provide a comprehensive evaluation of the Trigonella genus, emphasizing its nutritional value, traditional uses, and therapeutic applications. Particularly, its significance in traditional medicine systems such as Indian Ayurveda, Tibetan, and Chinese medicine is highlighted, shedding light on its profound cultural and medicinal implications. Morphological distinctions, etymology, vernacularity, and habitat preferences specific to the Trigonella genus are also discussed. Additionally, this study explores the economic potential of Trigonella, underscoring its pivotal role in ensuring food security and healthcare within local communities. Furthermore, it emphasizes the importance of safeguarding traditional healthcare practices and fostering biodiversity conservation efforts by examining the traditional knowledge and utilization of endemic plants worldwide. By offering insights into the diverse species within the Trigonella genus, their cultural significance, and medicinal potential, this review significantly contributes to our comprehension of these invaluable resources and their far-reaching implications for human well-being.

The future of “High-Value Medicinal and Aromatic Plants" is a captivating exploration of the multifaceted significance, current landscape, and promising trajectory of high-value Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (MAPs). This chapter delves into their roles in health, economics, culture, and sustainability. It showcases their historical roots, contemporary applications, and pivotal positions in global industries, from pharmaceuticals to culinary. High-value MAPs are more than commodities; they are repositories of cultural heritage. The chapter discusses their economic importance, regions for cultivation, and emerging trends. It also highlights their vital roles in pharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals through compelling case studies. High-value MAPs enrich global cuisines, shaping culinary traditions and sensory experiences. The chapter looks to the future, addressing challenges and opportunities while emphasizing sustainability, market trends, research prospects, and their contributions to food security, health, and sustainability.

Genotype plus genotype-by-environment (GGE) and additive main effects and multiplicative interaction (AMMI) analyses are recognized as the two most effective approaches for assessing genotype × environment interaction. In this investigation, forty-three spearmint (Mentha spicata L.) half-sib seed progenies were evaluated for the stability of agro-morphological and biochemical characteristics. For leaf-to-stem ratio, limonene and carvone contents, the analysis of variance uncovered the presence of a significant genotype-by-environment interaction, this finding illustrates that Mentha spicata genotypes exhibited diverse levels of performance across the three environments. The genotypes OPSP-95, OPSP-96, OPSP-78, OPSP-46, and OPSP-86 excelled in carvone per cent in each environment, as indicated by the “which-won-where” polygon. The optimal genotypes for carvone content determined by the genotype ranking are as follows OPSP-46, OPSP-35, OPSP-86, OPSP-78, OPSP-66 and OPSP-106 and for limonene content OPSP-86, OPSP-66, OPSP-47, OPSP-56, OPSP-59 and OPSP-106. Three genotypes OPSP-50, OPSP-112, and OPSP-16 showed both high oil yield per plot couples with stability across tested environments. Based on the mean trait stability index, genotypes OPSP-92, OPSP-76, OPSP-96, OPSP-94, OPSP-95, and OPSP-117 were stable and best based on all observed characters across the three environments. Spearmint genotypes that are stable and high-yield can be cultivated commercially and utilized as base populations for upcoming breeding initiatives.

Phytotoxic activity of essential oil emulsions (EOEs) of aromatic plants such as Mentha piperita, Pelargonium graveolens, Matricaria chamomilla, Chrysopogon zizanioides, Pogostemon patchouli, Mentha arvensis, and aqueous extracts of Andrographis paniculata were evaluated for problematic weeds like Avena fatua and Phalaris minor, along with wheat (Triticum aestivum) as a test crop through laboratory bioassay studies during 2020–2021. The chemical composition of essential oils was analyzed through GC/GC–MS. Results of the laboratory bioassay revealed that EOEs of M. piperita, C. zizanioides, M. arvensis, and an aqueous extract of A. paniculata as pre-emergence bioherbicides strongly inhibited germination and seedling growth of the tested weed species in a dose dependent manner, with P. minor and A. fatua being selectively more sensitive than T. aestivum. Percent seed germination varied between treatments, ranging from 3.45–48.28

Phosphate (Bacillus megaterium) and potassium (Frateuria aurantia) solubilizing bacteria (PSB and KSB) were assessed for their agronomic impact on chamomile performance in a pot experiment at CSIR-CIMAPRC, Bengaluru. Results demonstrated that 75% recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF) combined with PSB and KSB significantly improved chamomile performance, enhancing plant height (41.4 cm), stem diameter (1.10 mm), number of flowers (348.67), flower: leaf ratio (1.24), and flower dry weight (4.28 g plant-1) compared to control, RDF alone, and sole solubilizer application. The combined application with 100% RDF synergistically increased rhizosphere bacterial population from 25 × 104 Cfu g-1 to 57 × 104 cfu g-1, while 75% RDF + PSB + KSB resulted in 53 × 104 cfu g-1. Morphological and biochemical analyses revealed diverse variations in chamomile endophytes and rhizosphere soil bacterial populations, mainly Bacillus and Streptococcus genera. PSB and KSB, whether applied individually or combined, significantly influenced chamomile growth and yield, with microbial dynamics enhancing nutrient solubilization and availability.

Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) remote sensing in precision agriculture (PA) is a promising technique for managing crop inputs. The high spatial-resolution data enables extensive examination of the crop canopy, including identifying low-chlorophyll patches for initiating prophylactic measures as early as possible. In this study DJI M-200 equipped with MicaSense Altum multispectral camera was used to acquire multispectral images of citronella fields under various nutrient treatments at different growth stages. The study assessed the relevance of Machine Learning (ML) on multispectral images to predict citronella chlorophyll concentrations. To predict the crop canopy chlorophyll concentration for citronella, we evaluated Random Forest (RF), Support Vector Machine (SVM) and Partial Least Square (PLS) machine learning models. Based on the Rsquare value of all three models, the SVM machine learning model could best predict the crop canopy chlorophyll concentration with coefficient of determination R2 (0.79), root mean square error (0.05) and mean absolute error (0.04) respectively. The correlation between predicted chlorophyll contents and selected Vegetation Indices (VIs) also demonstrated significant relationship, implying that these can serve as a valuable indicator of crop canopy chlorophyll, which in turn can be used for providing insights into crop health, vigor, and productivity. This study showed that by employing UAV multispectral images and machine learning models the spatial distributions of chlorophyll concentration in a citronella crop at different growth phases can be predicted accurately.

Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla L.) is a vital medicinal and aromatic plant, widely recognized for its industrial applications. However, sustainable cultivation of chamomile faces challenges due to the excessive use of chemical fertilizers, which can negatively impact soil health and the environment. There is a growing need to explore alternative agricultural practices that enhance nutrient use efficiency while minimizing environmental harm. Field experiments were conducted from 2022 to 2024 at the CSIR-CIMAP Research Centre in Bengaluru to evaluate the effects of phosphate solubilizing bacteria (PSB) and potassium solubilizing bacteria (KSB) on the performance and nutrient use efficiency of chamomile. Various treatment combinations of Recommended Dose of Fertilizers (RDF: 100 kg N, 60 kg P2O5, and 40 kg K2O ha-1) with PSB and KSB were tested, including co-inoculation and sole applications, to determine their impact on plant growth, yield and economic returns. Co-inoculating PSB and KSB with 100% RDF significantly increased plant height (48.09 cm) and branch count (15.43), outperforming RDF alone and other treatments. Sole applications of PSB or KSB with 100% RDF were comparable to 75% RDF combinations. The highest agronomic use efficiency (27.28%) and microbial response (37.49%) were achieved with 100% RDF+PSB+KSB, leading to a 137.49% yield increase. The highest concentrations of key compounds, α-bisabolol oxide B and α-bisabolol, were observed with 75% RDF+PSB+KSB. α-bisabolol peaked in the RDF-alone treatment. The 100% RDF+PSB+KSB treatment achieved the highest net monetary returns (US$ 5110 ha-1) and a benefit-to-cost ratio of 2.41, similar to 75% RDF+PSB+KSB. Overall, 75% RDF with PSB and KSB significantly enhances chamomile performance, increases soil bacterial populations, boosts nutrient mineralization, reduces chemical fertilizer use, and minimizes environmental impact. This approach offers a promising pathway for sustainable chamomile cultivation, leading to higher yields, improved economic returns, and reduced environmental impact. [Fundam Appl Agric 2024; 9(3.000): 143-152]

The aromatic herb basil is rich in minerals, micronutrients, and therapeutic properties. The present pot culture study was conducted to investigate the impact of foliar application of botanical extracts on the physiology of crop along with its biomass, essential oil yield and composition in Ocimum basilicum L. cv. CIM-Shisir. The experiment consists of thirteen treatments of foliar application of botanical biostimulants having three consecutive concentrations (0.5%, 1.0% and 1.5%), arranged in completely randomized with four replications. Three foliar applications of all the treatments were done at pre branching stage (25 DAP), branching stage (35 DAP) and pre-flowering stage (55 DAP). The study revealed that 1.0% Echinochloa colona L. extract produced higher fresh biomass (266 gram pot-1 ), dry biomass (89.7 gram pot1 ), fresh root (48.5 gram pot-1 ), dry root (20 gram pot-1 ), oil yield (2.4 ml pot-1 ) and relative water content (59.13%) of basil compared to all the other biostimulants and control treatments. Although 1.0% seaweed extract gave higher total chlorophyll content (0.71 mg g-1 fresh weight). Major volatile compounds of oil were Linalool (63-68%), Camphor (9.5-10.3%), and 1,8 Cineole (7.1-8.5%). Conclusively these weed leaf extracts may be used effectively to improve the growth and yield of basil.

Owing to its medicinal attributes and appealing taste, the market for oregano is steadily increasing worldwide. Consequently, there is an immense need to enhance its production to meet this growing demand. For plant cultivation, a suitable growth medium is essential as it serves as a source and sink for essential nutrients required for plant growth and development. Recognizing the importance of boosting oregano production, an experiment was conducted to unveil the individual and combined performance of various growth media, namely soil, vermicompost, rooting hormone, and cocopeat. The findings of the experiment revealed that all the growth media effectively supported the plant’s growth and establishment by providing necessary nutrients. However, it was observed that a combination of vermicompost and rooting hormone had a particularly significant positive impact on various agronomical attributes. This combination resulted in enhanced root and shoot growth, indicating that vermicompost primarily promotes the development of roots, shoots, and leaves while rooting hormone positively influences root weight and overall plant development. As a result, this combination contributed to the establishment and growth of oregano seedlings. By implementing these findings, farmers can enhance the production of oregano, meeting the rising demand and ensuring a sustainable supply of this valuable herb. Keywords: Oregano, Soil, Vermicompost, Rooting hormone, Cocopeat.

Spearmint (Mentha spicata L.) is popular for its medicinal benefits and industrial uses, in this study forty-three half-sib progenies were evaluated over three seasons at CSIR-CIMAP, Research Centre Pantnagar to study genetic variability, correlation, path coefficient analysis and Mahalanobis D2 diversity by using five morphological and two biochemical traits. These forty-three half-sib populations were derived from nine commercially existing spearmint varieties through an intra-population improvement method. Results of correlation and path coefficient studies indicated the paramount importance of certain key traits in the selection process. Notably, traits such as herb yield per plot (kg), plant height (cm) and oil content (%) emerged as pivotal, exhibiting positive correlations, high heritability and moderate to high genetic advance. These attributes, therefore need primacy in the selection of superior lines. Furthermore, genotypes OPSP-106, OPSP-92, OPSP-47, OPSP-35 and OPSP-76 showed significant genetic divergence. These accessions hold promise as parent candidates for hybridization experiments aimed at finding transgressive segregants in later generations. Additionally, this study highlighted the presence of specific oil components, such as carvone and limonene, offering insights into potential avenues for targeted breeding efforts. This study provides a holistic view of the genetic makeup of Mentha spicata genotypes, enabling informed decisions in breeding programs. By prioritizing traits and maximizing genetic diversity, the results of this investigation will contribute to the development of improved spearmint varieties with enhanced morphological and biochemical characters, thus advancing the medicinal and industrial applications of spearmint.

In the delicate balance of plant vitality, moisture-stress emerges as a critical determinant. Its stifling impact on stomatal regulation and photosynthesis underscores its role in shaping agronomic outcomes and essential oil production. Addressing this challenge is imperative. Hence, the present investigation intended to find out the consequence of soil moisture on essential-oils content, and composition of three mint varieties. Experiment was setup with nine treatments from which the samples were collected at different times i.e., before and after irrigation. The study revealed noticeable variations in oil content across all species of mint family under increasing soil moisture stress. For instance, in M. spicata L., the oil content found between 0.37% and 0.57%, while in M. piperita L., it varied from 0.50% to 0.62%, and in M. citrata L., it spanned from 0.43% to 0.62% during the morning and afternoon measurements. The predominant compound in M. spicata L. was piperitone oxide (43.04%–80.94%), while M. piperita L. exhibited higher concentrations of menthol (31.30%–46.80%) and menthone (10.63%–26.48%). In contrast, M. citrata L. stood out as a notable source of linalool (0.0%–58.27%). These findings collectively indicate that variations in soil moisture-stress significantly impact both the quantity and composition of oils in these species.

The historical and cultural significance of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (MAPs) spans centuries, with roots in ancient civilizations like Mesopotamia, Egypt, and China, where they were used for medicinal, religious, and culinary purposes. Indigenous cultures and figures like Hippocrates further enriched the traditions of herbal medicine. Beyond their practical uses, MAPs held cultural and spiritual importance, influenced global culinary traditions, and contributed to art and literature. In agriculture, MAPs play a vital role through sustainable farming practices, natural pest control, and soil enrichment. They enhance flavors and aromas in the food industry and offer natural alternatives for supplements and medications. Economically, they are a significant industry, and ecologically, they promote biodiversity and reduce chemical interventions. This chapter explores into the profound historical and cultural significance of MAPs, unravels their pivotal contributions to contemporary agriculture and the food industry, and sheds light on their integral role in advancing sustainability and driving economic prosperity.

Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni stores over 20 glycosides in leaves and stem, the primary sweetening compounds are stevioside and rebaudioside A. Stevioside is 250-300 times and rebaudioside A is 350-450 times sweeter than sucrose. These glycosides can be substituted for free sugars being used in food and beverage industries. Due to limitations in the improvement of stevia through conventional breeding, induced polyploidy technique is a quick way to achieve enhanced leaf yield with increased secondary metabolites production. Presented study was conducted to develop genetic resources by inducing polyploidy and characterizing it. The apical meristem of 30-day-old seedlings was treated with colchicine solutions, ranging from 0.05 to 0.30%. Flow-cytometric analysis confirmed 13 tetraploids and one triploid genotype. Tetraploid plants showed significant changes in plant height, had larger leaf area, thicker leaves and higher levels of stevioside and rebaudioside A content, as compared to control. The triploid plant also surpassed the diploid control in number of branches per plant, leaf thickness, leaf area and fresh stem weight. The tetraploid line (ST 6) had 65.7% higher rebaudioside A content compared to diploid control. Correlation study revealed that leaf area and leaf thickness had an inverse correlation with rebaudioside A content. These newly developed polyploid genotypes offer valuable genetic resources for future stevia breeding programmes and as polyploid varieties for commercial cultivation.