Analysis of variation in constituents of Actaea racemosa L. (Syn. Cimicifuga racemosa (L.) Nutt.)

Cimicifuga racemosa, Syn. Actaea racemosa (rattlesnake) is used as a medicinal plant against menopause symptoms and is of increasing economical significance. The rhizome of this perennial plant is used. Since the supply of material for the industry is so far covered by collecting wildlife stock it is of great importance to undergo efforts in cultivating Actaea racemosa. At the department of crop and animal sciences research has been started several years ago dealing with watering and manure requirements. Adding to this the aim of this project is to characterize different sources of Actaea racemosa according to their potential of cultivation. In addition to the potential yields the different constituents in their amounts and degrees of variation are of great significance. At the same time fundamentals for breeding are to be aquired. In the end we want to work out the basic information to cultivate plants whose requirements for quality and specification are meet.