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2025 Vol.70, Issue 4 Preview Page

Original Research Article

Mitigation of Heat Shock in Cucumber (Cucumis sativus) by Exogenous Application of Plant Extracts
Ei Ei1
,
Hyun Hwa Park2
,
Yong In Kuk3*
1Ph. D Researcher, Dep. of Bio-Oriental Medicine Resources, Sunchon National University, Suncheon 57922, Republic of Korea
2Ph. D Student, Dep. of Bio-Oriental Medicine Resources, Sunchon National University, Suncheon 57922, Republic of Korea
3Professor, Dep. of Bio-Oriental Medicine Resources, Sunchon National University, Suncheon 57922, Republic of Korea
*Corresponding Author
1 December 2025. pp. 350-364
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Abstract

Heat shock has serious effects on the quality and yield of crops-especially cucumber. This study aimed to identify a heat-sensitive test plant among cereals and vegetables and evaluate the effective concentrations of guava (Psidium guajava), aloe (Aloe vera), garlic (Allium sativum), and alfalfa (Medicago sativa) extracts in terms of hormetic effects based on morphological responses. The study also aimed to optimize the physiological and biochemical mechanisms of heat tolerance in cucumbers subjected to extract treatment. Cucumber shoot fresh weight (27-41%) and plant height (12-26%) were significantly enhanced, whereas maize, barley, and rice showed minimal changes. Guava and aloe extracts increased the total chlorophyll and carotenoid contents in cucumber plants, thus supporting the restoration of photosynthesis. Guava and garlic extracts also increased the activity of antioxidant enzymes and decreased the levels of hydrogen peroxide and malondialdehyde, thereby minimizing the oxidative damage to cucumber plants. These results suggest that plant extracts can effectively increase the heat tolerance of cucumbers by improving their water status, protecting their photosynthetic function, and enhancing their antioxidant defenses. This approach offers a sustainable and, eco-friendly solution to improve the resistance of plants to stress and supports cultivation under changing climatic conditions.

Keywords
antioxidant enzymes
cereal, cucumber
growth
heat stress
hormesis
plant extracts
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Information
  • Publisher :The Korean Society of Crop Science
  • Publisher(Ko) :한국작물학회
  • Journal Title :The Korean Journal of Crop Science
  • Journal Title(Ko) :한국작물학회지
  • Volume : 70
  • No :4
  • Pages :350-364
  • Received Date : 2025-09-02
  • Revised Date : 2025-09-11
  • Accepted Date : 2025-09-15
  • DOI :https://doi.org/10.7740/kjcs.2025.70.4.350
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