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RECENT ADVANCES IN MEDICINAL AND AROMATIC CROPS

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Horticulture Science Vol 2 ISBN 978-81-19821-12-9
CHAPTER 14
RECENT ADVANCES IN MEDICINAL AND AROMATIC
CROPS
Vasanthkumar SS , Pooja UK2 , Priya L 3, Kumaresan M 4, Rubika
1

R5, Gowshika R 6
1, 5
M. Sc Scholar, Department of Plantation, Spices, Medicinal and
Aromatic Crops Horticultural College & Research Institute,
Periyakulam.
6
M.Sc Scholar, Department of Vegetable science
Horticultural College & Research Institute, Periyakulam.
2, 3
M. Sc Scholar, Department of Plantation, Spices, Medicinal and
Aromatic Crops
Horticultural College & Research Institute, Coimbatore.
4
Assitant Professor, Vels Institute of science, Technology & Advanced
Studies,
Pallavaram, Chennai.

Abstract
Medicinal and aromatic crops are crucial in modern agriculture for
pharmaceutical, culinary, and industrial applications. Advancements in
cultivation, biotechnology, and sustainable farming practices have led to
improved crop health and resource utilization. However, challenges like
climate change, resource scarcity, and market demand pose significant
threats to the industry's sustainability.
Introduction
In recent years, there have been significant advancements in the
field of medicinal and aromatic crops, commonly referred to as
MediAroma. These advancements have led to a deeper understanding of
the therapeutic properties and potential applications of various plant
species, resulting in improved healthcare outcomes for individuals in both
developed and developing countries, underscoring the growing global
trend toward consuming these types of plants (Simea et al., 2023). Some
of the notable advances in the field of MediAroma include: The global
consumption of medicinal and aromatic plants has been increasing, with

167
these plants being utilized for a variety of applications such as herbal
medicines, health products, dietary supplements, and cosmetics.
Furthermore, the use of these plants extends beyond healthcare; they are
also valuable in culinary applications, particularly in the Mediterranean
cuisine where aromatic herbs augment and modify food flavours and
mitigate food degradation (Mehra et al., 2021).
Soil and Climate
The choice of soil type for medicinal and aromatic crops can vary
depending on the specific plant species and its natural habitat. However,
in general, these types of plants often thrive in well-drained soils with
good organic matter content and appropriate pH levels.
The suitable soil to raise medicinal and aromatic crops are loam and sandy
soil, the soil needs to have good drainage and organic matter with optimum
pH.
Loam Soil: Loam soil is a balanced mixture of sand, silt, and clay and is
ideal for many medicinal and aromatic plants. It provides good drainage
while retaining moisture and nutrients, which is important.
Sandy Soil: Sandy soil has excellent drainage. This is beneficial for
aromatic herbs, as they often prefer drier conditions. However, it needs to
be amended with organic matter to improve its nutrient holding capacity.
Drainage: Good drainage is essential for most aromatic and medicinal
plants, as they are often sensitive to waterlogged conditions. It can be
enhanced by adding organic matter and creating raised beds.
pH Level: The ideal pH for medicinal and aromatic crops can vary, but
many of these plants prefer slightly acidic to neutral soils. A soil test can
be done to determine the soil's pH and amend it as needed.
Organic Matter: Adding organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted
manure, can improve the overall quality of the soil by increasing its
fertility, moisture retention, and nutrient content.
Studying the soil present in the natural habitat of the plant and mimicking
it to grow the specific medicinal and aromatic crop can be done to maintain
the crop in healthy condition and increase its production and productivity.
Climate
The climate requirements for medicinal and aromatic crops vary
widely depending on the specific plant species, as these plants have

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evolved in various natural habitats around the world. India has a broad
range of climatic conditions suitable to grow almost all kinds of medicinal
and aromatic plant in various geographic locations.
The main climatic types are: -
Temperate
Many medicinal and aromatic plants thrive in temperate climates,
which have distinct seasons with moderate temperatures.
They prefer:
 Moderate temperatures with a range of 50-85°F (10-30°C).
 Well-defined seasons, including a cold winter and a warm growing
season.
 Adequate rainfall or irrigation during the growing season.
 A frost-free period for annuals or protection for tender perennials
during winter.
 Examples of plants that prefer temperate climates include
lavender, thyme, and rosemary.
Tropical and Subtropical
Many medicinal and aromatic plants are native to tropical and
subtropical regions.
They prefer:
 Warm to hot temperatures throughout the year.
 High humidity and rainfall, often with a distinct wet and dry
season.
 Well-drained, nutrient-rich soil.
 Adequate sunlight.
 Examples of plants that prefer tropical and subtropical climates
include lemongrass, ginger, and basil.
In regions with climates that do not naturally support the growth of
certain medicinal and aromatic crops, controlled environments like
greenhouses can be created to simulate the desired conditions. Locally
adapted varieties can be cultivated, and good cultural practices can be
followed such as proper watering, soil preparation, and pest management,
to successfully grow these crops in a variety of climates.

169
Crop Soil Climate Elevation Rainfall
Senna Red loam, Tropical, - 25-40 cm
alluvial loam (bright
and rich clay sunshine)
Periwinkle Deep sandy Tropical and 1300 m 100 cm
loam to loam subtropical
soils of
medium
fertility
Glory Lily Sandy loam Tropical - 350 to
400 cm
Medicinal Red, sandy Subtropical 2400 m 100 to
Coleus loam and tropical 160 cm
Ashwagandha Sandy loam Subtropical - 660 to
750 mm
Isabgol Sandy loam Subtropical - 100 to
to rich loamy 160 cm
soil
Poppy well drained, Temperate -
highly fertile and
light black or subtropical
loam soil
Aloe Sandy to Tropical - 150 to
loamy soils 200 cm
Ocimum Rich loam to Tropical and Up to 150 to
poor laterite, subtropical 1,800 m 200 cm
saline and
alkaline to
moderately
acidic soils
Artemisia Sandy loam Subtropical - 150 to
to medium 200 cm
black

170
 Lavender Well drained Temperate - 100 to
sandy loamy 150 cm
soil
Mint Deep soil Tropical and - 100 to
rich in subtropical 150 cm
organic does not cross
matter 40º celsius
Patchouli Well drained Subtropical
fertile loamy
soil
Geranium Well drained Subtropical 1000 to 100 to
porous soil 2200 m 150 cm
Red lateritic
soil
Propagation and Planting
Propagation and planting methods for medicinal and aromatic
crops can vary depending on the specific plant species.
Seeds: Many medicinal and aromatic plants can be grown from seeds.
Method
 Select high-quality seeds from a reputable source.
 Follow the recommended sowing depth and spacing for the
specific plant species.
 Sow seeds directly in the field, nursery or in trays or pots.
 Indoor starting is often recommended for plants that require a
longer growing season.
 Provide the appropriate temperature, moisture, and light conditions
for germination.
 Transplant seedlings to the field when they have developed true
leaves and are sturdy enough to handle.
Cuttings: Many aromatic and medicinal herbs can be propagated from
stem cuttings.
Method
 Take cuttings from healthy, disease-free plants.
 Remove leaves from the lower portion of the cutting.
 Dip the cut end in rooting hormone i.e., Auxin. (optional)
171
  Plant the cutting in a well-draining media or directly in the field.
 Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
 Provide the right amount of light and warmth for root
development.
Division: Some perennial herbs can be propagated by dividing their root
systems.
Method
 Dig up the mature plant, and carefully separate the root system into
sections.
 Each section should have both roots and shoots.
 Replant the divisions at the same depth as the parent plant.
 Water thoroughly after planting to help the divisions establish.
Spacing and Soil Preparation
Consider the specific requirements of the plant when spacing and
preparing the soil. Some prefer well-drained soils, while others may need
more moisture or different soil pH levels. Adequate spacing ensures that
the plants have enough room to grow and receive proper air circulation.
Crop Propagation Seed Rate Spacing
Senna Seeds 5 kg 30 cm x 30
cm
Periwinkle Seeds 2 to 3 kg 45 cm x 25 to
30 cm
Glory Lily V – Shaped 2.5 to 3 t/ha
rhizomes
Medicinal Terminal cuttings 55,500 60 cm x 45
Coleus plants/ha cm
Ashwagandha Seeds 10 to 12 kg/ha 60 cm x 60
cm
Isabgol Seeds 4 to 6 kg/ha
Poppy Seeds 7 to 8 kg/ha – 30 cm x 30
Broadcasting cm
4 to 5 kg/ha –
Line sowing

172
 Aloe Root suckers 60 cm x 30
cm
60 cm x 45
cm
Ocimum Seeds 200 to 300 g/ha 40 cm x 40
cm
40 cm x 50
cm
50 cm x 30
cm
Artemisia Seeds 1.5 kg/ha 15 cm x 7.5
cm
Mint Stolons - 45-60 x 10-
15 cm
Patchouli Cuttings and 30,000 cuttings 60 cm x 60
Seeds cm
Geranium Cuttings 30,000 cuttings 60 cm x 60
cm
Manures and Fertilizers
Manuring and fertilizer application in medicinal and aromatic
crops are essential for ensuring healthy plant growth, improving yield, and
enhancing the quality of essential oils and medicinal compounds. The
specific nutrient requirements can vary based on the plant species and
local soil conditions. The nutrient must be applied in the right time, right
place and right quantity.
Organic Manure
Incorporating organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted
manure, into the soil before planting is an excellent practice. Organic
matter improves soil structure, enhances water retention, and provides
essential nutrients over time.
Balanced Fertilizers
Use of balanced fertilizer with varying proportions of nitrogen (N),
phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) should be done for the optimum
production and productivity of the crop unless a soil test indicates a

173
different nutrient requirement. Balanced fertilizer dose might vary based
on the crop.
Nitrogen (N): Nitrogen is essential for vegetative growth. For many
aromatic herbs, a moderate level of nitrogen is required. Too much
nitrogen can lead to excessive leaf growth at the expense of essential oil
production.
Phosphorus (P): Phosphorus promotes root development and flowering.
Many aromatic and medicinal plants benefit from a higher phosphorus
level during the flowering and fruiting stages.
Potassium (K):Potassium is essential for overall plant health and disease
resistance. It also helps with the formation of essential oils.
Micronutrients
Some medicinal and aromatic crops may require micronutrients like iron,
manganese, and boron. Ensure that the soil provides these in adequate
amounts or apply micronutrient-rich fertilizers when necessary.
Foliar Feeding
Foliar feeding is a technique where a diluted fertilizer solution is sprayed
directly on the leaves. This can be effective for supplying nutrients directly
to the plant when soil conditions are less than ideal.
Crop Manure N P K
Senna 5 to 10 t/ha 50 to 100 20 to 50 kg 30 kg
kg
Periwinkle 10 to 15 t/ha 25 kg 50 kg 75 kg
Glory Lily 10 t/ha 60 kg 25 kg 40 kg
Medicinal 15 t/ha 30 kg 60 kg 50 kg
coleus
Isabgol - 50 kg 25 kg -
Poppy 20 to 30 t/ha 60 to 80 kg 40 to 50 kg -
Aloe - 150 kg 150 kg 150 kg
Ocimum 15 t/ha 120 kg 60 kg 60 kg
Artemisia 6 t/ha 120 kg 40 kg 40 kg
Geranium 10 t/ha 35 kg 35 kg 35 kg
Irrigation
Irrigation is a crucial aspect of cultivating medicinal and aromatic
crops, as proper moisture management can significantly impact plant

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health, growth, and the quality of essential oils and medicinal compounds.
The specific irrigation needs can vary depending on the plant species, local
climate, and soil conditions. Soil drainage must be good to prevent
waterlogging. Irrigation is given in the morning to prevent scorching due
to high temperature in the noon and waterlogging overnight and wet
foliage during night which could promote diseases.
Crop Irrigation
Senna Rainfed, 5 to 8 light irrigations
Periwinkle 4 to 5 irrigations
Glory Lily 12 to 15 irrigations
Medicinal Coleus 12 to 15 irrigations
Ashwagandha 12 to 15 irrigations
Isabgol Light irrigation when needed
Poppy 12 to 15 irrigations
Aloe 4 to 5 irrigations
Ocimum 12 to 15 irrigations
Artemisia Light irrigation when needed
Lavender 12 to 15 irrigations
Mint 12 to 15 irrigations
Patchouli 12 to 15 irrigations
Geranium 12 to 15 irrigations
Plant Protection
Plant protection is crucial for the successful cultivation of
medicinal and aromatic crops. Protecting these plants from pests, diseases,
and environmental stresses is essential to ensure a healthy and high-quality
yield.
Integrated Pest Management (IPM)
Implement an IPM approach that combines multiple strategies to
manage pests effectively while minimizing the use of synthetic pesticides.
These strategies may include biological control, cultural practices, and
chemical control as a last resort.
Cultural Practices
 Rotate crops: Regularly rotate your crops to prevent the buildup
of soil-borne diseases and pests.

175
  Plant companion plants: Some companion plants can help deter
pests or attract beneficial insects that control pests.
 Proper spacing: Adequate spacing between plants improves air
circulation and reduces the risk of disease.
 Weed management: Keep the area around your crops weed-free,
as weeds can harbour pests and diseases.
Biological Control
 Release beneficial insects: Introduce natural predators like
ladybugs or parasitic wasps to control pest populations.
 Use nematodes: Beneficial nematodes can help control soil-borne
pests.
 Encourage beneficial organisms: Create habitats and food
sources for beneficial insects, birds, and other natural predators.
Disease-Resistant Varieties
Select disease-resistant plant varieties whenever possible. These
varieties are bred to resist common diseases, reducing the need for
chemical treatments.
Hygiene and Sanitation
Maintaining good hygiene in cultivation area prevents pest and disease
incidence.
 Regularly clean tools and equipment to prevent the spread of
diseases.
 Remove and dispose of infected or pest-infested plant material
promptly.
 Ensure proper disposal of plant debris to prevent disease
overwintering.
Harvest, Yield and Processing
Harvesting medicinal and aromatic crops is a critical step in the
cultivation process to ensure the plants are at their peak of potency and
that essential oils and medicinal compounds are preserved. The timing and
techniques for harvesting can vary depending on the plant species and the
part of the plant being collected (e.g., leaves, flowers, roots, seeds).
Harvest plants at the peak of their medicinal or aromatic potency.
The timing can vary by species and the plant part to be harvested.
Generally, herbs are harvested when they are in full bloom but before they

176
start to set seed, as this is when essential oil content is often highest. Sharp
tools like pruners and shears are used to minimize damage during harvest.
Harvesting is usually done during dry conditions as wet plants can mould
or rot during drying process.
Crop Yield
Senna 1 t/ha – leaves
0.2 to 0.3 t/ha - pods
Periwinkle 4 t/ha – leaves
1.5 t/ha – stem
1.5 t/ha – roots
Glory Lily 1 t/acre – tubers
300 kg/acre – seeds
Medicinal Coleus 15 to 20 t/ha – Fresh tubers
2000 to 2200 kg/ha – Dry tubers
Ashwagandha 300 to 500 kg/ha – dried roots
50 to 75 kg /ha – seeds
Isabgol 1 t/ha
Poppy 50 to 60 kg/ha
Aloe 10,000 to 12,000 kg/ha
Ocimum 5 t/ha – fresh herbage
Artemisia 12 to 13 t/ha
Processing
Processing medicinal and aromatic crops is a critical step to
extract, preserve, and prepare the valuable compounds within these plants
for various uses, including herbal remedies, essential oils, teas, culinary
applications, and more. The specific processing methods can vary widely
based on the plant species and the desired end product.
Drying
 Drying is one of the most common methods for preserving
medicinal and aromatic plants. It reduces the moisture content and
helps prevent mould and degradation of essential oils.
 Harvested plant material is hung in well-ventilated areas, spread
out on hygienic surfaces or dried using racks. Exposing the
material to direct sunlight is avoided.

177
  When drying, an appropriate temperature is maintained for each
specific plant. Some herbs are best dried at low temperatures to
preserve volatile compounds.
Freezing
 Freezing can be an effective way to preserve the freshness of
aromatic herbs. It's especially suitable for plants that are highly
sensitive to heat.
 Plant material is stored in airtight containers in the freezer.
Distillation (for Essential Oils)
 Distillation is a common method for extracting essential oils from
aromatic crops. It involves heating the plant material to release
volatile compounds and then condensing the vapor to collect the
essential oil.
 Special equipment, such as a still, is required for distillation.
Powdering and Grinding
 For certain medicinal crops, such as roots or bark, drying is
followed by powdering or grinding to create a fine powder that can
be used in various applications.
Storage
 After processing, store the dried or processed materials in airtight
containers, away from direct light, moisture, and temperature
fluctuations.
Conclusion
Recent advancements in medicinal and aromatic crops are
transforming the way we view and use these plants. These innovations
include sustainable cultivation, genetic improvement, and research into
their medicinal properties. These developments benefit the environment,
growers, and consumers by offering a broader range of high-quality
products. As the world prioritizes sustainability and health, these crops are
poised to play a pivotal role in various industries, including agriculture
and medicine. The future holds great promise for these versatile and
valuable plants, with precision breeding and genomic research opening up
new possibilities in healthcare, agriculture, and the culinary world.

178
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