Optimization of regeneration and Agrobacterium-mediated transformation of Stevia (Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni): a commercially important natural sweetener plant.

Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni is a commercially important zero calorie natural-sweetener herb which produce sweet compounds known as steviol glycosides. Rising demands of steviol glycosides by food and beverage industries has led to an increase in its cultivation in various countries. Unfortunately, stevia cultivation faces 2-25% yield penalty due to weeds which further adds to its cultivation cost.

Genus Psoralea: A review of the traditional and modern uses, phytochemistry and pharmacology.

Ethnopharmacological Relevance: The genus Psoralea (Fabaceae) harbours 105 accepted species that are extensively used by local peoples and medicinal practitioners of China, India, and other countries for treatment of tooth decay, psoriasis, leucoderma, leprosy, kidney problems, tuberculosis, indigestion, constipation and impotence. Presently, pharmacological research reports are available on only few species namely Bituminaria bituminosa (Syn: P. bituminosa), P.