Ayurveda and endophytes for sustainable agriculture: bridging traditional knowledge with modern nanotechnology
摘要
Ayurveda, an ancient Indian medical system originating from the Vedic period, has endured centuries of cultural and political upheaval. Central to this tradition is the use of medicinal plants, a practice still prevalent today due to India’s vast biodiversity, which includes over 47,000 plant species, of which approximately 15,000–20,000 have therapeutic potential, although only about 7,000 are currently utilized in Ayurvedic medicine. In recent years, scientific attention has shifted toward the microbial communities associated with these medicinal plants, particularly endophytes, microorganisms that inhabit internal plant tissues without causing harm. These endophytes contribute to plant vitality by producing growth regulators, enhancing resistance to diseases, and aiding nutrient assimilation. Emerging research has uncovered a novel aspect of endophytic function: their ability to biosynthesize metal nanoparticles within plant tissues, notably silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). These biosynthesized AgNPs exhibit potent antibacterial activity, bolster nutrient uptake, and increase tolerance to abiotic stress, thereby offering a sustainable and environmentally friendly strategy for improving plant growth and agricultural productivity. This integrated perspective bridges traditional botanical knowledge with contemporary microbial biotechnology. The exploration of endophyte-mediated nanoparticle synthesis not only enriches our understanding of plant-microbe interactions but also unveils promising applications in eco-conscious agriculture. This review uniquely integrates classical Ayurvedic concepts of medicinal plants with recent insights into plant-associated endophytic microbiota and green synthesis of silver nanoparticles, emphasizing their combined potential for sustainable agriculture.