Integrated Dose-Response Modeling and Phytochemical Profiling Reveal the Bioherbicidal Potential of Mimosa Pigra Leaf Extract against Eleusine indica

Abstract

Eleusine indica (goosegrass) is a globally problematic grass weed with increasing herbicide resistance, highlighting the need for sustainable plant-derived alternatives. This study evaluated the bioherbicidal potential of an ethanolic leaf extract of Mimosa pigra through an integrated approach combining dose–response modeling, phytochemical profiling, and soil-based validation. In Petri-dish assays (0 - 160 mg mL⁻¹), the extract significantly inhibited germination and early seedling growth in a concentration-dependent manner. Four-parameter logistic modeling identified root growth as the most sensitive endpoint (IC₅₀ = 34.9 mg mL⁻¹), followed by germination inhibition (IC₅₀ = 46.8 mg mL⁻¹) and shoot inhibition (IC₅₀ = 57.6 mg mL⁻¹). The extract contained high levels of total phenolics and flavonoids (TPC = 128.6 ± 6.4 mg GAE g⁻¹; TFC = 71.8 ± 4.1 mg QE g⁻¹) and exhibited a polyphenol-rich profile dominated by flavan-3-ols/proanthocyanidins and flavonol glycosides. Phytochemical indices were strongly positively correlated with phytotoxicity (r = 0.83 - 0.94, p < 0.01). Under net-house pot conditions (21 DAT), the extract markedly reduced weed emergence, plant height, and shoot biomass, with biomass reduction reaching 77.4% at 160 mg mL⁻¹. By integrating quantitative bioassays with phytochemical characterization and soil-based validation, this study provides a more comprehensive basis for advancing M. pigra leaf extract as a natural bioherbicidal candidate. Future studies should focus on large-scale field trials to further evaluate the practical applicability of Mimosa pigra leaf extract as a bioherbicidal agent.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Mimosa pigra leaf extract strongly inhibits the germination and growth of Eleusine indica in a dose-dependent manner.
• Dose–response modeling identifies root growth as the most sensitive endpoint, with an IC₅₀ value of 34.9 mg mL⁻¹.
• HPLC–UV–DAD profiling confirms that the extract is rich in procyanidins and flavonol glycosides.
• Phytotoxic intensity shows a strong positive correlation with phytochemical abundance.
• Integrated bioassays and net-house validation confirm the strong bioherbicidal potential of the extract.

GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT