Abstract
Callus initiation and safrole production from true laurel were studied. Young leaves with
midrib were surface sterilized and used for callus induction. Leaf explants were cut and cultured
on half-strength Murashige and Skoog (MS) basal medium supplemented with different
concentrations and combinations of auxin (NAA) and cytokinin (BA) under light condition for 12
weeks. It was found that explants culturing on the media without NAA were unable to form any
calli while the highest callus formation was initiated on half-strength MS basal medium
consisted of 0.5 mg/l NAA and 0.5 mg/l BA. After color test was performed via Marquis
Reagent, the results indicated that all induced calli could produce safrole as their cells and
tissues turned into dark violet.