Allelopathic effects of Aizoon canariense leaf leachates on growth, biochemistry, and oxidative stress responses in selected crop species

GC-MS analysis revealed 40 compounds, including sesquiterpenes, phytol, patchouli alcohol, and α-cadinol. LL treatments significantly reduced shoot and root growth, pigment content, and biomass in a dose-dependent manner, with rapeseed and mung bean showing the greatest sensitivity. Conversely, LL exposure elevated phenolic and flavonoid levels, antioxidant enzyme activity (SOD, CAT), and oxidative stress markers (H₂O₂ and MDA). Correlation analysis demonstrated strong negative relationships between growth traits and oxidative damage, and positive associations between phenolic accumulation and antioxidant responses. <i>A. canariense</i> leaf leachates exert significant allelopathic effects on crop plants by inducing oxidative stress and activating antioxidant defenses, suggesting the presence of potent phytotoxic compounds. These findings offer new insights into the ecological role of <i>A. canariense</i> and its potential application as a natural bioherbicide or rotation crop component in sustainable agriculture.