DEVELOPMENT OF A BIODEGRADABLE NON-DECAYING BIOFILM COATING FOR MEDICINAL PLANT SEEDS TO ENHANCE GERMINATION AND STRESS TOLERANCE IN ARID AGRICULTURAL SYSTEMS

Abstract

Seed deterioration and reduced germination rates remain major challenges in medicinal plant cultivation, particularly in arid and semi-arid environments where water scarcity, soil salinity and thermal stress inhibit seed vigor. Recent advancements in biodegradable seed-coating polymers and bio-enhanced priming technologies offer new strategies to protect seeds, delay decomposition, and promote uniform emergence. This research article investigates the theoretical basis, experimental approaches, and biotechnological prospects for developing a non-decaying biological film for medicinal plant seeds. The study focuses on metabolically inert biodegradable matrices reinforced by plant-compatible biopolymers and microbial metabolites designed to enhance water retention, stimulate enzymatic activation, improve nutrient uptake, and protect seeds from oxidative damage. The article argues that biopolymeric nano-films combining alginate, chitosan, lignin nanoparticles, humic acids, and probiotic rhizobacteria can synchronize germination, enhance vigor, and improve field performance for high-value medicinal crops such as Nigella sativa, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Plantago major, Ocimum sanctum, Aloe vera, and Silybum marianum. Experimental observations indicate increased germination rate, improved seedling resilience, stronger antioxidant enzyme activity, and delayed microbial degradation. The work contributes to agricultural biotechnology, sustainable herbal production, and circular bioeconomy systems. Solutions for scaling eco-friendly seed-coating technologies in Uzbekistan and Central Asia are discussed, alongside scientific problems, future research directions, and regulatory implications.