Collection and Processing of Medicinal Raw Materials from Some Rare Plants in the Forest-Steppe Zone of Northern Kazakhstan

Abstract

Rare endemic plants of the forest-steppe zone of Northern Kazakhstan, including Adonis vernalis, Adonis wolgensis, Pulsatilla patens, and Pulsatilla multifida, represent valuable medicinal resources whose sustainable utilization requires optimized harvesting, processing, and conservation strategies. This study evaluated the effects of drying conditions, environmental factors, extraction techniques, and biotechnological approaches on the yield and quality of bioactive compounds from these species. Shade drying of Pulsatilla patens yielded a flavonoid content of 24.3 mg/g, approximately 30% higher than sun-dried material, demonstrating the critical importance of controlled drying environments. Soil moisture was identified as a significant environmental determinant of bioactive accumulation, with moderate moisture conditions associated with optimal concentrations of flavonoids, saponins, and alkaloids. Among the extraction methods compared, ultrasonic extraction demonstrated the highest recovery of bioactive compounds, preserving up to 95% of target constituents. Biotechnological propagation via tissue culture was also assessed, with cloning of Adonis wolgensis achieving an efficiency of 85%, indicating strong potential for ex situ conservation and sustainable cultivation. Collectively, these findings support an integrated approach combining ecological monitoring, optimized extraction, and plant biotechnology as a comprehensive framework for the conservation and sustainable production of medicinal raw materials from rare plant species in Northern Kazakhstan.