The potential of melatonin in the mitigation of adverse effects of salt stress in basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) plants.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Drought and salinity are among the most critical abiotic stresses affecting crops worldwide. Within this context, melatonin has emerged as a multifunctional signaling molecule that mitigates stress and promotes growth in various plant species. This study aimed to evaluate the physiological and biochemical responses of Ocimum basilicum plants cultivated under hydroponic conditions and exposed to salt stress, following pre-harvest treatment with melatonin. Basil seedlings were immersed in melatonin solutions at concentrations ranging from 0 to 100 μM for 48 hours and subsequently grown for 60 days under saline stress.

Results

Melatonin treatment, particularly at 50 μM (T50), significantly increased the fresh weight of both aerial parts and roots. Aerial biomass near

SUBMITTER: Gonzalez Forte LDS 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12574168 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature