The conjunctive use of compost tea and inorganic fertiliser on the growth, yield and terpenoid content of Centella asiatica (L.) urban

The conjunctive use of a compost tea (CT) and an inorganic fertiliser (NPK) on the growth, yield and terpenoid content of Centella asiatica (L.) urban was evaluated. CT and NPK applied at half the recommended concentration resulted in the significant enhancement of vegetative growth, yield and antioxidant content. The synergistic effect of CT50 and NPK50 was highly pronounced on the bioactive components Asiatic acid, madecassoside and asiaticoside. The distribution of the total antioxidants was highest in roots (80%), followed by leaves (66%) and petioles (54%). There was a strong positive correlation (r = 0.990) between fertility and total antioxidant content, suggesting an enhanced synthesis of bioactive components resulting from the treatment. This response by C. asiatica to the integrated experimental treatment suggests a viable option for the commercial cultivation of the herb. Augmenting the vegetative biomass production and bioactive components will increase the availability of this medicinal herb for the treatment of various human ailments.

► The active components in Centella asiatica vary based on the agro-climatic practices adopted.
► The integrated use of CT and NPK at 50% produced max. herbage yield.
► The concentration of active components in the herb was enhanced.
► The integrated use of CT and NPK increased the availability of nutrients and improved soil fertility.
► These findings will have a positive effect on the commercial cultivation of C. asiatica.