The perspectives of using Pelargonium sidoides hybrids

Abstract

Aim. The Pelargonium sidoides DC. is a valuable medicinal plant, and its irrational use in nature may lead to the species receiving rare status in the future. Obtaining P. sidoides hybrids with a higher content of phenolic compounds will expand the range of plants used in the pharmaceutical industry and reduce the pressure on natural resources. The purpose was to improve methods of growing P. sidoides in greenhouse conditions, obtain hybrids of this species, and research them for the content of various phenolic compounds in vegetative organs. Methods. Light microscopy, spectrophotometry (determination of the total content of phenols and flavonoids, the content of phenolic antioxidants and phenolic acids). Results. The anatomical structure of the leaves and roots of the obtained hybrids did not differ significantly from those of the pure species. It has been found that growing P. sidoides and its hybrids in greenhouse conditions with high summer temperatures increase the synthesis and accumulation of phenolic substances in all vegetative organs. It is important to emphasize that high levels of flavonoids and phenol carboxylic acid have been detected in the leaves, so it is advisable to use them as raw materials for the pharmaceutical industry also. Conclusion. The cultivation methods of the studied plants have been improved. The use of hybrid plants for obtaining flavonoids is more effective for the pharmaceutical industry but less practical in getting other phenolic compounds compared to P. sidoides have been found.  The revealed difference in the localization and amount of secondary metabolites indicates the need for a detailed study of other substances of a phenolic nature in the leaves and roots of these pelargoniums.