The effect of atmospheric pollutants on the activity of antioxidant enzymes (ascorbate peroxidase and catalase) and soluble carbohydrates of Lavandula vera D.C. and Rosmarinus officinalis L.

In this research, the effect of atmospheric pollutants on antioxidant enzymes activity and soluble carbohydrates of Lavandula vera and Rosmarinus officinalis is studied. The data from DOE air quality monitoring stations were considered and the stations with the highest and lowest amounts of pollution were selected. Then, the two plants were planted in both stations. After one year, the plant leaves were harvested and studied. The results of the study showed that enzymes activity increased in the more polluted site. And there was a significant difference between the treatment and control cases. The activity rate was higher in Lavandula vera than in Rosmarinus officinalis.Also, the soluble carbohydrates increased and were positively correlated with pollution stress. Variations of soluble carbohydrates in the two plants were significant.