Exploring the Role of Moringa Oleifera Leaf Extract (MLE) in Enhancing Seed Germination, Seedling Growth, and Plant Development of Chili

Chilli (Capsicum annum L.) belongs to the family Solanaceae and it is one of the most important spices cultivated for its fruits. They are widely used as both green and ripe dried form for its pungency (Jalgaonkar et al., 2024) It is mainly used as a vegetable and also a condiment but the topmost use of chilli throughout the world is as a spice due to its pungency and pleasant flavor. Chilli is one of the most essential cash crops grown in Sri Lanka and it has become a vital ingredient in Sri Lankan meals (Mihiranie et al., 2020). The history of chilies dates back thousands of years, with their origins believed to be in the Americas (Andrews, J. (1995). Indigenous peoples in Central and South America were the first to cultivate and use chilies, incorporating them into their diets as well as using them for medicinal purposes (Foster, N., & Cordell, L. S. (Eds.). (1992). When Christopher Columbus arrived in the New World, he introduced chilies to Europe, sparking a worldwide exchange of crops during the Columbian Exchange, which led to chilies being integrated into the cuisines of Asia, Africa, and beyond. Today, chilies are an essential ingredient in many iconic dishes. From the fiery curries of India to the spicy salsas of Mexico and the heat-filled stir-fries of Thailand, chilies playa pivotal role in defining the flavor profile of these cuisines (Cai et al., 2021). Whether they are used fresh, dried, ground into powder, or made into sauces, chilies offer a range of flavors—from smoky and fruity to intensely hot—allowing for avast spectrum of culinary applications (Peterson, J. (2017). Chilies also hold cultural significance, often being seen as a symbol of hospitality, vitality, and resilience in many societies. For example, in countries like Mexico and India, chilies are used not only in cooking but also in traditional rituals, such as offerings to gods or as protective charms against evil spirits (Etkin, N. L. (2008). Beyond their culinary uses, chilies have been the subject of scientific research due to their potential health benefits. Capsaicin, the compound that gives chilies their heat, has been studied for its analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and metabolism-boosting properties. Moreover, the rich vitamin content of chilies, particularly vitamin C, adds to their nutritional value, making them botha flavorful and health-conscious addition to any diet (Gupta, E., & Mishra, P. (2021). Moringa oleifera, commonly known as the drumstick tree, is a fast-growing, drought-resistant plant native to parts of Africa and Asia (Kumar et al., 2020). Its leaves are a rich source of essential nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which have garnered significant attention for their potential applications in agriculture (El-Ramady et al., 2022). Recent studies have explored the use of Moringa oleifera leaf extract (MLE) as a natural biostimulant to enhance plant growth and development (Mashamaite et al., 2022). The bioactive compounds present in MLE, such as cytokinins, phenolic acids, and flavonoids, are believed to promote seed germination, stimulate root and shoot growth, and improve overall plant health (Hafeez et al., 2022).