In vitro micropropagation for standardizing medicinal plants: a systems-based case study of Hibiscus sabdariffa and Glycyrrhiza glabra
摘要
As global interest in herbal medicine grows, there is a need for scalable and scientifically validated methods to ensure consistent quality of medicinal plant production. This study examined the pharmacological and agronomic potential of Hibiscus sabdariffa and Glycyrrhiza glabra, focusing on how in vitro micropropagation can enhance the standardization and reliability of their bioactive compounds, anthocyanins and glycyrrhizin, respectively. These compounds are associated with therapeutic effects in hypertension, liver diseases, respiratory infections, and digestive disorders. The study introduces the “Phytobiotechnological Continuum Model,” a framework that links traditional medicinal knowledge with biotechnology, agroecology, and pharmacology. These findings suggest that microclonal propagation can improve phytochemical consistency, reduce pressure on wild populations, and support sustainable herbal production, particularly in regions such as Uzbekistan. This paper highlights the potential of integrating traditional practices with modern biotechnological approaches to advance the sustainable development and global standardization of medicinal plant–based therapies.