2.3.11. Bioassay of 2,4-D and coumarin-2,4-D polymers
(3a–b). Pumpkin plant (Cucurbita maxima) seeds were obtained
from the local market in Midnapore, West Bengal, India. The
seeds were surface sterilized with 95% ethanol and 2.5% sodium
hypochlorite and were washed several times with distilled water,
dried and stored under sterile conditions in a closed container
before being used in the treatment. Pumpkin plant (Cucurbita
maxima) is an important vegetable plant of the world. Pumpkin
fruit is a powerhouse of nutrients, such as highly valued omega-3
fatty acids, unsaturated fatty acids, proteins, beta-carotene,
vitamin E, and minerals. Pumpkin has powerful antioxidant,
antidiabetic and anticancer properties. Pumpkin plant tends to
be expressed preferentially in the root and shoot system of a tenday-old plant and it is also easy to handle.