Abstract

IMPACT OF GOOD AGRICULTURAL PRACTICES ON THE ANTIOXIDANT LEVELS IN MEDICINAL PLANTS

Abhimanyu A. Sonawane*, Ankush Sharma and Varsha R. Solanki

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Abstract

Background: Oxidative stress and free radicals are known to be harmful to human health. A large number of studies demonstrates that in fact free radicals contribute to initiation and progression of several diseases, ranging from CVD to cancer. Antioxidants can be very useful in preventing, managing, or treating human diseases, they are not generating any adverse effects. Due to toxic nature of synthetic oxidants preferences have shifted to the natural antioxidants. Trend toward the use of natural substance present in medicinal plants as therapeutic antioxidants is increased. In order to ensure the sustainability of high-quality Antioxidant rich medicinal plants good agricultural practices should be followed. Aim: To study good agricultural practices and their impact on production of plants rich in antioxidant levels. Materials and Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted to identify relevant studies and articles on the Impact of Good Agricultural Practices on the Antioxidant levels in Medicinal Plants. The data used in current study was gathered from databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, and indexed – non indexed, peer review journals and widely dispersed research e-publications. Discussion: Good Agricultural Practices like use of authenticate medicinal plants, Seeds and other propagation materials, Cultivation practices, fertile soil and proper plant maintenance and protection enhances plant growth and productivity. these leads increase the levels of health-promoting bioactive compounds like Antioxidants in plants. Conclusion: This review shows that Good Agricultural Practices should be adopted to ensure the sustainability of high-quality medicinal plants rich in bioactive compounds like Antioxidants.

Keywords: Good Agricultural Practices, Antioxidant, Medicinal Plants.