Changes in growth and essential oil composition of sweet basil in response of salinity stress and superabsorbents application

To evaluate the effect of superabsorbent polymers (SAPs) on the growth, some physiological traits, essential oil (EO) content and composition of sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum cv. Keshkeni luvelu) under salinity stress, a pot factorial experiment in randomized complete design with three replications was done. Treatments included salinity stress levels (0, 40, 80, and 120mM NaCl) and superabsorbents (Ackoasorb, Terracottem, Stockosorb, and control). The results showed that the growth characteristics, SPAD, K+, and K+/Na+ ratio were decreased by severity of NaCl stress, whereas the application of SAPs have increased them. On the other hand, EO content, membrane permeability, MDA, proline, and Na+ contents were increased under severity of NaCl stress and SAPs application were decreased them, except EO content. At the highest salinity level (120 mM NaCl), the application of the Terracottem reduced membrane permeability and Na+, however, shoot dry weight, shoot to root weight ratio, leaf dry matter and the EO content increased by the Terracottem application. In addition, the Stockosorb application decreased MDA and proline contents, but the percentages of oxygenated monoterpenes, especially linalool and inn -muurolol increased under Stockosorb application. In conclusion, the application of SAPs can alleviate the harmful effects of salt stress on quantity and quality yields of sweet basil.