A Whole Plant-Based Bioassay with Rice Seedlings to Test Effects of Homeopathic Preparations

Agricultural production can be enhanced by plant-based research to better understand specific biological effects of homeopathic preparations. As a major crop for food supply and its environmental impact during cultivation, rice is an important crop globally. Therefore, the objective of this study was to investigate the potential of using rice seedlings in plant-based research to explore specific biological effects of homeopathic preparations and therefore increase the potential for using this eco-friendly approach in rice crops. The experimental series was performed at the Centre for Agroecology, Water and Resilience, Coventry University, United Kingdom, between April and September 2020. The experimental series was repeated 8 times in total. Each experimental series was conducted in a growth chamber with a controlled environment for 13 days. The treatments were randomized and a double-blind approach to the preparation identity was used. Sil. and Calc. were applied, each from 5 to 30CH using deionised water and dynamized deionised water as the controls. During each repetition, each treatment was applied in a pot containing 15 seeds. The length of the two leaves, root, internode, shoot and the number of germinated seeds were evaluated. Data were analyzed by ANOVA and when significant (≤0.05) by LSD test. The results showed that Calc. 5CH, 22CH and Sil. 15CH significantly increased, while Calc. 18CH and 19CH decreased the root length of rice seedlings. The internode length was significantly improved by Calc. 21CH and Sil. 29CH and reduced by Calc. 26CH. Calc. 26CH and Sil. 13CH reduced the total length of rice plants. It was concluded that the biological effects of different potencies (CH) can be favorable or unfavorable for the growth of different organs of rice seedlings. Plant-based research on rice seedlings can provide useful information and understanding of the use of homeopathy in rice systems.

Keywords: Agroecology, agriculture, Silicea terra, Calcarea carbonica

Publication History

Article published online:
30 January 2024