Medicinal plants are regularly attacked by the plant parasitic nematodes,
which can seriously harm these crops. However, only a few medicinal plants have been
reported with regard to the extent of crop damage caused by the nematode. Root-knot
nematodes (Meloidogyne spp.), root lesion nematodes (Pratylenchus spp.), and stunt
nematodes (Tylenchorhynchus spp.) are major nematode pests that affect medicinal
plants and significantly reduce their yield. The economically significant medicinal
plants that are infected by nematodes include Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera),
Basil (Ocimum spp.), Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri), Coleus (Coleus forskohlii), Henbanes
(Hyoscyamus sp.), Noni (Morinda citrifolia), Menthol mint (Mentha spp.), Safed Musli
(Chlorophytum borivillianum), etc. In the present chapter, nematode infestation in the
above medicinal plants has been described in detail, and appropriate management
options are suggested to avoid yield losses.
Keywords: Ashwagandha, Basil, Brahmi, Coleus, Henbanes, Mentha, Safed musli.
