Chemical induction for agarwood formation: a recent review
摘要
Agarwood is a non-timber product from the family Thymelaeaceae, under the genus Aquilaria and Gyrinops, used mainly to produce fragrances, medicines, and other products for religious activities. The tree’s defense mechanisms against biological, chemical, or physical stresses activate key compounds such as sesquiterpenoids and phenylethyl chromone derivatives, leading to the formation of resin or agarwood. However, traditional agarwood production is often unpredictable and inconsistent, leading to the development of artificial induction techniques. Chemical induction is the most widely used method for agarwood production due to its consistency; however, research in this area remains relatively limited. This review consolidates and critically examines existing findings on chemical stimulation, highlighting recent advancements, the efficacy of various chemical inducers, and key research gaps. It aims to provide a comprehensive resource for researchers and industry stakeholders seeking to enhance agarwood production through chemical approaches.