Review of Strategies for Economic and Quality Advancements in Silk Production using Botanical Extracts

The Indian sericulture industry focuses on enhancing cocoon production through improved mulberry leaf nutrition. Botanical extracts show promise in boosting silkworm (Bombyx mori L.) economic traits. They stimulate feeding, enhancing food consumption and digestion, crucial for larval growth and cocoon quality. Extracts like Coffee Arabica, Eclipta prostrata, and Centella improve food absorption and larval development. Citrus limon enhances cocoon and silk weights. Botanicals from families like Lamiaceae (e.g., Ocimum species) not only promote growth but also offer antimicrobial protection, vital for disease-free rearing. Additionally, botanicals induce synchronized spinning behavior and improve silk gland activity, enhancing silk production efficiency. Disease management benefits include reduced mortality from diseases like grasserie, supported by botanical antimicrobial properties. Overall, fortifying mulberry leaves with botanicals represents a sustainable strategy to enhance silk production economically and qualitatively. These approaches align with the industry's goal of achieving higher yields and superior silk quality in a cost-effective and environment friendly manner.