Comparative GC-MS analysis of Bacopa monnieri grown at high temperature

Context: Bacopa monnieri (L.) Wettst. is traditionally used as a nerve tonic for mental disorders in Ayurvedic medicine in India and Sri Lanka. However, due to global warming, natural habitats habitat of this plant is threatened. Objective: to examine changes in secondary metabolites in B. monnieri with increased temperature. Methods: plants were grown inside a temperature regulated poly tunnel at 34°C -35 °C and ambient temperature plant house at 27 °C - 32° GC-MS was used to analyze difference in secondary metabolites. Results: A compound with the molecular formula of C20H40O corresponding to phytol A is the major constituent Plants grown at higher temperature produce substances that are no present at ambient temperature and heat influence the yield of secondary metabolite production. Conclusion: increased temperature affects the composition of B. monnieri.