STUDIES ON THE VEGETATIVE PROPAGATION OF Gymnema sy/vestry (MASBEDDA)

Abstract

Gymnema is a woody, extensively branched perennial vine well known as a medicinal plant withanti-diabetic properties. The extract of leaves contains gymnemic acid and a mixture oftriterpene-glycosides known as gymnemosides, which were found effective in reducing bloodsugar by acting indirectly through the stimulation of insulin secretion ofthe pancreas. Further, itwas found that, it reduces the serum cholesterol levels, stimulate circulatory system and alsoused in treating snakebites. Thus, Gymnema has a ready demand in local and foreign market ofherbal products, causing over exploitation of natural habitats, at the face of the lack of systemiccultivation. In this background, the current study was carried out to develop a cost effectiveprotocol for the rapid multiplication of Gymnema.

It was a challenging task to find out sufficient amount of planting material, since Gymnema is avery rare species of plant. After an extensive survey, few authentic mother vines were identifiedfrom two locations in Matara district and one location in Monaragala district. The l't and theimmediate phase of propagation studies were conducted on vegetative propagation, since thecollection of seeds was extremely difficult. Three types of stem cuttings (2-3 nodal cuttings withleaves) i.e.; softwood (green, terminal portions), semi-hardwood (middle portion) and hardwood(basal portion) were used with hormone treatments and different potting mixtures. Applicationof Secto (NAA 0.3% + Thiram 0.2% in WP form) resulted 80% success in root formationfollowed by 50% success with the application of Clonex (3-IBA, 3mg/L in paste form)compared to 10% success observed in the control.

It could be clearly observed from the results that, Gymnema can be vegetatively propagated bythe use of stem cuttings of specially the semi-hardwood type. Auxin based commercial rootinducing hormone mixtures can be effectively utilized to improve the success of root formationin Gymnema. A potting medium with desirable properties i.e. high moisture holding capacitywhile maintaining good aeration can further enhance the success of vegetative propagation.Thus, it can be concluded from the results that, the mass propagation of Gymnema can beachieved within a reasonably short period of time (less than one year) by using the techniquedeveloped.