ABSTRACT
Salvia officinalis is a pharmacologically active plant that is used in traditional pharmacopeia all over the world. Antioxidant, spasmolytic, antimicrobial, antihidrotic, astringent and specific sensory properties are the major characteristics of this plant. However, environmental conditions strongly influence the physiology and phytochemistry of this plant. Notably, stresses (saline, metallic, etc.), cause serious morphological, physiological and biochemical alterations. These mainly include decreased growth and productivity of plants, resulting in osmotic stress, specific ionic effects and nutritional imbalances. Following a dysfunction of the photosystem, photosynthetic yield is decreased and oxidative explosion induced. In addition, several studies show the positive effects of exogenous growth regulators, in particular salicylic acid, in reducing the harmful effects on various plants. Our data show that the treatment of Salvia officinalis with salicylic acid improves plant growth. This positive effect is attributed to stimulation of absorption and translocation of nutrients, stimulation of photosynthetic pigment synthesis, regulation of water status and the antioxidant system of Salvia officinalis. It also improves the quality and quantity of essential oils. Using these data, the authors provide a scientific overview of the impact of harsh conditions on Salvia officinalis adaptation, from physiologic and biochemical aspects, and also how the application of some mediator compounds, such as salicylic acid, could remediate the negative impact.
