Effect of Medicinal Plant Extracts on Mung Bean (Vigna radiata) Seed Germination

Abstract

Seed germination is a critical physiological stage that determines crop establishment, vigor, and final yield. With the growing emphasis on eco-friendly and chemical-free agricultural practices, herbal extracts derived from plants such as neem (Azadirachta indica), garlic (Allium sativum), aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis), and tulsi (Ocimum sanctum) have gained attention as potential natural seed treatments. This study was undertaken to evaluate the effect of different herbal extracts on the germination rate, germination percentage, and early seedling growth of mung bean (Vigna radiata) seeds. Seeds were soaked in aqueous extracts of neem, garlic, aloe vera, and tulsi at a fixed concentration, alongside a distilled-water control, and germination parameters were recorded over a seven-day period under controlled laboratory conditions. Results indicated that aloe vera and tulsi extracts significantly enhanced germination percentage and seedling vigor compared to the control, while neem extract showed a moderate inhibitory effect at higher concentrations, likely due to its bioactive compounds such as azadirachtin. Garlic extract produced intermediate results, promoting root growth but slightly delaying the onset of germination. These findings suggest that herbal extracts can be selectively used as natural seed priming agents, offering a sustainable alternative to synthetic growth promoters, though their effect is concentration- and species-dependent.