The Effect of medicinal plant extracts on some growth parameters and biochemical indices of sesame (Sesamum indicum)

In order to study on the effect of six medicinal plants of resistant to drought on some growth and biochemical parameters of sesame (Sesamum indicum), an experiment was conducted in a factorial arrangement based on completely randomized design with three replications in laboratory of Agricultural Faculty of Bardsir, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman during 2016-2017. The experimental treatments were plant extract in six levels (Sugebrush (Artemisia annua), Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra), Camel thorn (Alhagi pseudoalhagi), Stinking assa (Ferula ssafoetida), Black saxaul (Haloxylon ammodendron), Thyme (Thymes vulgaris)) and extract concentrations at 7 levels (0, 100, 500, 1000, 5000, 10000, and 20000 ppm). The results showed that growth parameters as percentage and speed of germination, dry weight of plantlets, vigor index and biochemical parameters (CAT (Catalaze) and APX (Ascorbate peroxidase) activity) were affected by main and interaction effects of extract and concentration (P≤0.01). The GPX (Gayacol peroxsidase) activity was influenced by the main effect of extract concentration (P≤0.01). GPX activity increased with increasing of extract concentration to 5000 ppm and decreased at concentration of 10000 ppm. The percentage and speed of germination, dry weight of plantlets and CAT and APX activity were increased with increasing of Licorice extract concentration. Thyme, Sugebrush and Black saxaul extract reduced growth parameters and CAT activity and increased the APX activity. Camel thorn and Stinking assa extract increased root length and vigor index of plantlets and decreased APX activity.