Influence of alginate oligosaccharides on growth, yield and alkaloid production of opium poppy (Papaver somniferum L.)

Opium poppy (Papaver somniferum L.), an important medicinal plant, produces several opiate alkaloids including morphine, thebaine, codeine, papaverine and noscapine. Polysaccharides, such as sodium alginate, have been used in depolymerized form as wonderful promoters of plant growth. The present study has revealed that application of alginate oligosaccharides (AO), obtained from sodium alginate irradiated by Co-60 gamma rays, significantly enhances certain physiological/biochemical parameters as well as the overall growth of opium poppy. The highest dose applied was the most effective in increasing the morphine and codeine contents as well as the overall yield of crude opium per plant.