Effect of Some Aqueous Plant Extracts on Wheatgrass Growth under Salinity Stress and Resulted Biscuits Property

This study was conducted to examine the effect of foliar application of moringa and germinated fenugreek extracts on the growth and biochemical parameters of wheatgrass grown under saline conditions. Aqueous moringa extract (MLE) was used at concentrations of 1.25, 0.83, 0.62, and 0.31%, whereas fenugreek extract (GFE) was used at concentrations of 0.25, 0.20, 0.15, and 0.10%. Optimum germination conditions were investigated under NaCl stress (2000 ppm), and normal conditions (without NaCl) served as control. Ideal germination conditions were MLE 0.31% and GFE 0.15%, resulting in increased growth traits compared with other concentrations and the control. Exposure to saline stress significantly reduced seed germination, shoot and seedling fresh and dry weights and grass yield. Foliar application of MLE or GFE improved growth traits, total antioxidants, phenols, Ca, Mg, K, Mn, Cu, Zn, and Fe in the presence or absence of NaCl. Wheatgrass powder was used at 5, 10, and 15% levels by replacing wheat flour to develop biscuits. Wheatgrass showed high feasibility for formulating nutrient-rich biscuits with acceptable sensory qualities. These findings provide useful information for enhancing the nutrients in biscuits, with potential use as a natural source of bioactive compounds in functional food products.