In Vitro Propagation of <i>Eleutherine palmifolia</i> (L.) Merr.: Optimization of Surface Sterilization and Effects of BA and NAA on Shoot and Root Induction

<i>Eleutherine palmifolia</i> (L.) Merr., or Wan Hom Daeng, is a medicinal plant valued for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties. Its bulbs contain flavonoids, phenolics, and naphthoquinones, but slow natural propagation and low seed viability hinder large-scale cultivation and conservation. This study evaluated the optimal Clorox concentration and exposure time for sterilizing <i>E. palmifolia</i> bulb explants and examined the effects of BA and NAA on in vitro shoot and root development. The results revealed that surface sterilization with 20% Clorox for 20 min yielded the highest explant survival rate at 73.33%. Shoot induction was significantly enhanced in MS medium supplemented with 2 or 4 mg/L BA, or a combination of 2 mg/L BA and 0.5 mg/L NAA, all achieving a 100% shoot formation rate. Root induction was most effective in MS medium containing 0.5 mg/L NAA alone, also with a 100% success rate. These findings establish a reliable and efficient protocol for the in vitro propagation of <i>E. palmifolia</i>, providing a foundation for its conservation, sustainable use, and potential commercial cultivation to meet increasing demand in the medicinal plant sector.