Developing propagation methodology and determining seasonal variation and antibacterial activity for a cosmeceutical species, Leucosidea sericea

Abstract

The aim of this study was to determine propagation methodology of L. sericea taking into consideration the effect of season and storage. The response of tip and basal cuttings of L. sericea to three hormonal treatments and three growth media was investigated. Seed germination response to five constant temperatures and four pre-sowing treatments was also investigated. Using NMR spectroscopy, the effects of season and storage on metabolites in leaves of L. sericea were investigated. All treatments did not initiate or improve rooting of L sericea cuttings. Seed germination percentage was significantly affected by temperature and pre-sowing treatment compared to control. The optimum seed germination percentage was obtained at 15°C (53%) when treated with smoke water. Seasonal variation affected leaf metabolite profiles. Storage did not affect the antibacterial activity of L. sericea leaves and those harvested in winter showed an MIC value of ≤3.90μg/mL when tested on Propionibacterium acnes