Medicinal Plant Research 2024, Vol.14, No.5, 275-284 http://hortherbpublisher.com/index.php/mpr 277 The alkaloids in C. yanhusuo also exhibit anti-inflammatory and muscle-relaxant properties, broadening their therapeutic applications (Zhang et al., 2020a). Pharmacological studies have further highlighted the potential of these alkaloids in regulating mood and alleviating anxiety, suggesting that C. yanhusuo may be effective in treating mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety. In mouse experiments, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) metabolomics analysis demonstrated that total alkaloids from C. yanhusuo significantly improved metabolic disturbances in a chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) model (Wu et al., 2015). 2.3 Traditional cultivation techniques The traditional cultivation of Corydalis yanhusuo has a history spanning several centuries, primarily in regions with a long-standing tradition of traditional Chinese medicine, such as Sichuan and Zhejiang provinces in China (Li et al., 2017). The cultivation process begins with the selection of high-quality tubers, which are commonly used as planting materials. Planting typically takes place in the autumn, as C. yanhusuo requires a cold period to break dormancy and stimulate subsequent growth. Traditional farmers usually choose loamy soil with good water retention to support optimal tuber development and ensure fields are located in shaded areas to mimic the plant's natural growth conditions under forest canopies. Before planting, the soil is often enriched with organic compost to enhance fertility, as C. yanhusuo demands abundant nutrients during its vegetative growth phase. Tubers are generally planted at a depth of 5-10 cm with adequate spacing to allow for tuber expansion (Zhao et al., 2023). Irrigation is crucial during the early growth stages, with soil moisture maintained at stable levels to support root development. However, waterlogging must be avoided to prevent tuber rot, which could severely impact yield and quality. Traditional cultivation practices also involve manual weeding and close monitoring of pest and disease management, typically employing natural pest control methods and crop rotation. A common practice is rotating with crops such as peanuts to enhance land use efficiency, though this can sometimes result in reduced tuber yields (Li et al., 2022). Harvesting usually occurs in late spring or early summer when the aboveground parts begin to wither, signaling that the tubers have matured. The harvested tubers are then cleaned, dried, and processed for use in medicinal formulations. 3 Research and Application of Efficient Cultivation Techniques of Corydalis yanhusuo 3.1 Soil improvement and nutrient management Improving soil quality and managing nutrients effectively are crucial for the efficient cultivation of Corydalis yanhusuo. Studies have shown that soil physicochemical properties such as cation exchange capacity (CEC), soil organic matter (SOM), total nitrogen (TN), and pH value significantly influence the growth and yield of C. yanhusuo. For instance, fields previously subjected to flooding exhibited higher yields compared to those rotated with peanuts or left without rotation, primarily due to improved soil properties and beneficial changes in the rhizobacteriome (Li et al., 2022). Additionally, intercropping with local crops like rice, maize, and peanut has been found to enhance soil quality by increasing soil pH, nitrogen-cycling-gene abundances, and beneficial microorganism populations, which in turn improve the biomass and secondary metabolite content of the plants (Liu et al., 2023). 3.2 Control of environment Controlling environmental factors such as light, temperature, and humidity is essential for optimizing the growth conditions of Corydalis yanhusuo. For instance, maintaining an appropriate range of light and temperature can significantly influence the biosynthesis of its key active compounds, benzylisoquinoline alkaloids (BIAs) (Xu et al., 2021). Corydalis yanhusuo thrives best under partial shading; excessive sunlight may cause leaf scorching, while insufficient light can hinder tuber formation. Using adjustable shading nets to provide a balanced light environment can optimize photosynthesis and promote healthy growth (Bao et al., 2020). The optimal temperature range for Corydalis yanhusuo growth is 15 °C to 25 °C, as extreme temperatures may impede root development or trigger premature bolting (Li et al., 2022). Additionally, maintaining 60%–70%
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