Phytochemical and morphological variation of Anisosciadium orientale DC. populations from Iran: Introducing a promising medicinal and nutritional plant

Identifying and introducing new plant species with nutritional and medicinal potential is a promising strategy for promoting sustainable agriculture and improving community health. Anisosciadium orientale, an annual herb of the Apiaceae family, naturally grows in limited regions of western and southwestern Iran. Despite its traditional use as a wild vegetable and medicinal plant, it has received little scientific attention. This study presents the first comprehensive analysis of morphological and phytochemical variation among seven populations of A. orientale. Morphological traits, including the number of stems and leaves and the fresh and dry weights of the leaves, stems, and flowers, were evaluated. Phytochemical profiling included the determination of essential oil composition by headspace gas chromatography–mass spectrometry and the quantification of polyphenolic compounds. A total of 27 essential oil components were identified, with limonene (27.45–56.29 %) as the major compound, followed by α-pinene (6.17–26.63 %), myrcene, terpinolene, and myristicin. The essential oil yields varied across populations, ranging from 0.36 % (Zarrindasht) to 0.48 % (Khafr). Twelve polyphenols were detected, with ellagic acid (0.364–2.641 mg/g), rosmarinic acid (0.124–1.445 mg/g), α-tocopherol, and chlorogenic acid predominant. Statistical analyses revealed significant differences among the populations. Correlations between morphological and chemical traits were examined, and multivariate analyses identified the Khafr population as phytochemically distinct. Morphologically, the Fasa and Jahrom-Gorm mount populations showed superior vegetative characteristics, highlighting their multipotent usage and suitability for domestication.