Resource Potential of Onosma simplicissima L. (Boraginaceae) Growing in the Novosibirsk Region

Introduction. Wild medicinal plants represent an important source of biologically active compounds widely used in pharmaceutical practice. Species of the genus Onosma L. (Boraginaceae) are characterized by high ecological plasticity and significant pharmacological potential associated with the accumulation of phenolic compounds. Onosma simplicissima L., widely distributed in the steppe and forest-steppe landscapes of Western Siberia, is considered a promising source of flavonoids and oxycinnamomic acids. However, an adequate assessment of its resource potential requires consideration of both biomass reserves and environmentally driven variability of the phytochemical profile.

Aim. To perform a comprehensive assessment of the resource potential of Onosma simplicissima L. within the Novosibirsk Region and to determine the influence of habitat conditions on the content of phenolic compounds in herb raw material.

Materials and methods. The study was conducted on the aerial parts of O. simplicissima collected at the flowering stage from nine locations in the Novosibirsk Region. Resource characteristics were evaluated using the model plant method with calculation of biological and exploitable reserves as well as potential annual harvest volumes. The total content of oxycinnamomic acids and flavonoids was determined by spectrophotometry and expressed as rosmarinic acid and rutin equivalents, respectively. Statistical analysis was performed using Student’s t-test at a confidence level of P = 95 %.

Results and discussion. A pronounced spatial heterogeneity of biomass density and phenolic compound content was revealed depending on habitat conditions. Maximum biomass values were observed in floodplain and anthropogenically transformed habitats, whereas the highest concentrations of phenolic compounds were recorded in xerophytic rocky slopes. An inverse relationship between biomass accumulation and phenolic metabolite content was established, reflecting the adaptive strategy of the species under abiotic stress.

Conclusion. Onosma simplicissima L. demonstrates a high resource potential in the Novosibirsk Region and can be regarded as a promising source of phenolic compounds. Ecologically determined variability in biomass reserves and chemical composition does not limit the feasibility of sustainable harvesting across all studied sites. The obtained results may be applied in rational resource management and the development of phytomedicines.

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