Hydroponic culture of pansit-pansitan [Peperomia pellucida]
1999
De Guzman, C.C. (Philippines Univ. Los Banos, College, Laguna (Philippines))
Pansit-pansitan, scientifically known as Pepromia pellucida, is a medicinal plant valued for its anti-gout properties which helps lower uric acid in the blood. It was one of the ten clinically tested medicinal plants endorsed by the Department of Health. It was reported that pansit-pansitan contained high amount of toxic metal like lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) surpassing the limits allowed by the WHO [World Health Organization]. To regulate the uptake of nutrient element in pansit-pansitan, the use of hydroponic culture through non-aerated Hoagland's solution was studied. Metal analysis showed that pansit-pansitan grown and collected from various locations showed that none of the plant samples passed the WHO standard of Cd and Pb. On the other hand, plants grown in the UPLB greenhouse and geneback had Cd and Pb within the WHO limit. Pansit-pansitan plants grown hydroponically had lower Pb and Cd content than those grown in soil. Results of further studies indicated that a decrease in the strength and yield of the Hoagland's solution decreased the shoot length, number of branches, fresh weight and dry weight of the plant. Root length was not affected. Decreasing the volume of full-strength Hoagland's solution reduced the values of all the above parameters. This means that one must replenish the medium with a fresh solution to encourage and maintain normal growth of pansit-pansitan. A single pansit-pansitan plant can be maintained in a 500 ml full-strength Hoagland's solution for seven months
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