Determination of the Effects of Curcuma longa L. (turmeric) Plant Extract on the Biochemical Properties of Capsicum annuum L. (pepper) Plant

The primary objective of this study was to determine how the defense system changes within the context of plant-plant interactions.To this end, two different concentrations of Curcuma longa L. (turmeric) extract (2.5 g/L and 10 g/L) were applied to 8-week-old Capsicum annuum L. (pepper) seedlings. After 24-48 and 72 hours, changes in the total protein content and the activity of peroxidase (POX), one of the key defense enzymes in plants, were determined in the seedlings.Based on our analysis results, the group showing the highest increase in total protein content was the one treated with the 10 g turmeric extract for 24 hours, exhibiting an increase of 47.3% compared to the control group. The highest increase in Peroxidase (POX) activity was observed in the group treated with the 10 g turmeric extract for 72 hours, showing an increase of 67.7%compared to the control.In light of these findings, it was determined that the turmeric extract supports the biochemical homeostasis of the plants and can stimulate their defense system. This result offers an environmentally friendly approach that could serve as an alternative to synthetic pesticides and elicitors.This research contributes to the growing literature regarding the importance of phytochemical-based biostimulants in sustainable agricultural practices and establishes a scientific basis for future studies in this field.