Effects of mannitol, sorbitol and sucrose on growth inhibition and in vitro conservation of germplasm of Asparagus racemosus -An important medicinal plant

Asparagus racemosus is a medicinal plant that finds its use as an aphrodisiac, galactogogue, and in treatment of anorexia, insomnia and general debility etc. But unfortunately it is “endangered” in its natural habitat due to deforestation and overexploitation. Furthermore, germination is highly variable in the seeds and plantation through cuttings is highly variable and subject to variation. In the present study, an effort was made to standardize a protocol for in vitro conservation of Asparagus racemosus, after comparing the effects of Mannitol, Sorbitol and Sucrose in different concentrations in MS (Murashige and Skooge) basal medium at two different temperatures i.e. 4°C and 25°C. The results clearly demonstrated that high sucrose content (100g and 150g respectively) played a vital role in conservation. Furthermore, Mannitol and Sorbitol (10g and 80mg respectively) helped to reduce the growth considerably. Temperature also served as a big influencing factor. 4°C clearly suited our purpose the best. Protocol standardized hereby, can be used for proper in vitro medium term conservation of Asparagus racemosus germplasm.