Genetic Resources and Breeding Approaches for Improvement of Ferula assa-foetida (Heeng)

Ferula assa-foetida L. is a perennial and monoecious herb belonging to Apiaceae/Umbelliferae family. This species is grown wild in Iran, Afghanistan, Uzbekistan, and Kazakhstan, whereas efforts are being made to grow it in high altitude regions of India since 2020. In addition, numerous phytochemistry and pharmacological research have investigated a number of bioactive substances and their respective uses in its essential oil during the past two decades, increasing its demand. The oleo-gum resin of this species has various carminative properties because of some chemical components that are (E)-1-propenyl sec-butyl disulfide, β-pinene, (Z)-1-propenyl sec-butyl disulfide, α-pinene, thiophene, and thiourea, as well as used as a condiment in kitchens all around the world. Several molecular markers (SCoT, RAPD, ISSR, SSR, and URP) were used for analyzing the considerable genotypic variability, whereas GCMS/HPLC was used for phytochemical diversity in this species. The F. assa-foetida species is losing diversity because of continuous and ruthless root harvesting in natural habitats, so, in vitro tissue culture approaches for mass multiplication and organized cultivation should be focused in this species. Therefore, for its sustainable consumption, cultivation, and genetic enhancement, this plant requires substantial research on its genetic resources and development of agrotechnologies. The information provided here may facilitate future breeding programmes that will manage and improve this species.