Unraveling the mystery: Decoding seed characteristics and germination challenges in Terminalia chebula Retz

Abstract

Terminalia chebula, is a worldwide used ethnomedicinal plant. It is a rich source of hydrolyzable tannins such as chebulic acid, chebulagic acid, gallic acid, corrilagin and alkaloids which are extensively utilized in the development of non-toxic therapeutic herbal drugs. However, natural regeneration is hampered by low seed germination rates and long germination periods in habitat and ecological conditions. The morphological characteristics of seeds such as a hard seed coat, fleshy mesocarp, stony endocarp, and underdeveloped embryo coupled with the phenolics present in the fruit contribute significantly to poor germination of the seeds. Furthermore, seed germination varies depending on seed size, weight and maturity, reflecting the interaction of these factors in the germination process. In addition, edaphic factors such as altitude and temperature play a crucial part in the natural regeneration process. In the past few years, there has been a growing interest in T. chebula based medicines to cure most human heart-related issues, especially to cure Alzheimer's disease. This leads to huge demand for the fruit of T. chebula. Understanding these intricate relationships enhances insights into the mechanisms that govern seed germination and the overall dynamics of natural regeneration. Thus, the review emphasizes the morphological characteristics of fruits, the characteristics of seeds, the causes for poor seed germination, seed dormancy and methods to improve seed germination in T. chebula.