Positive Role of UV Radiation in Enhancing Secondary Metabolites Production in Fenugreek Leaves

Ultraviolet rays are detrimental to all types of living cells. There are several compounds can absorb UV and protect the genetic material of plants called secondary metabolites as alkaloids, flavonoids and phenols. Moreover, these compounds are energetic for herbal drugs synthesis, and have more pharmacological activities. The self-protective secondary metabolism system can be activated by UV irradiation. Therefore, present study aimed to explore the changes of secondary metabolites in response to enhanced UV radiation in freshly collected leaves of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum graecum). The impact of two UV illumination doses (15 and 30 watt) was examined at different time intervals (1, 2, 3, 4 hr.). After UV radiation, the content of these compounds dramatically increased. The higher dose 30 watt was more effective than 15 watt. The increase in phenols, flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, saponins and anthocyanins were investigated by phytochemical screening and UV-spectrophotometer.