Effect of Light Intensity on Growth and Volatile Compound Content of Valeriana fauriei a Walk-In Growth Chamber

Background: Valeriana fauriei infusion is provided as a sedative and to treat nervous system disorders. The roots and rhizomes, known for their bitter taste and distinct aroma, serve therapeutic purposes, whereas the upper tissues are consumed as food. Light serves as an energy source and provides developmental signals for plants, influencing crop physiology and biochemistry. We examined the effect of various light intensities (100, 400, and 800 μmol·msup−2/sup·ssup−1/sup) on V. fauriei growth and development.BR/Methods and Results: Higher light intensities reduced plant height, but increased biomass and number of branches. Photosynthetic parameters were higher at 100 μmol·msup−2/sup·ssup−1/sup, whereas photodamage under higher light intensities reduced chlorophyll content. Using gas chromatography/ mass spectrometry, we identified isovaleric acid as the predominant volatile compound, and significant levels of bornyl acetate and valeric acid, in V. fauriei. Changes in light intensity also influ- enced volatile compound levels, with optimal production of bornyl acetate and isovaleric acid observed at 400 μmol·msup−2/sup·ssup−1/sup, while valeric acid production reached its maximum at 800 μmol·msup−2/sup·ssup−1/sup.BR/Conclusions: Adjusting ambient light conditions can effectively optimize production of desirable compounds. Specifically, a light intensity of 400 μmol·msup−2/sup·ssup−1/sup was established as optimal for enhancing plant biomass and total volatile compounds.