Bioassay of rice (Oryza sativa L.) seedlings in response to dynamized high dilutions of Calcarea carbonica and Silicea terra

Introduction: Agriculture faces the dual challenge of feeding a growing population while reducing its environmental footprint. Rice is a vital crop, supplying about one-quarter of the world's per capita energy intake and serving as the staple food for nearly half the population. Experimental studies have demonstrated the potential of dynamized high dilutions (DHDs) to promote plant growth, increase defensive substances, and enhance resistance to pathogens.
However, research using rice as a model remains limited, highlighting a research gap. Further basic research is needed to assess the stimulation effects of various DHD potencies in rice. Objectives: This model validation study aimed to investigate the biostimulation effect of DHDs of Silicea terra (silicon oxide) and Calcarea carbonica (calcium carbonate) in potencies ranging from 5cH to 30cH on rice seedlings, evaluating their morphophysiological development. Methodology: Experiments were conducted at the Centre for Agroecology, Water and Resilience (CAWR), Coventry University, UK. Fifty-two homeopathic treatments and two triplicated controls (unsuccussed water [c0] and succussed water [c1]) were applied to 15 rice seeds per treatment. DHDs (5cH–30cH) and controls were coded, randomized, and applied double-blind procedure.
After 13 days in controlled growth conditions, germination rate and seedling development were assessed by measuring shoot, leaf, internode, and root lengths. Eight independent experiments were performed in 2020. Results and Discussion: Results suggest rice seedlings are a viable model for studying homeopathic biostimulation effects. Potency levels showed distinct effects on
different plant organs without a linear dose-response relationship. Conclusion: This bioassay will help optimize the selection of homeopathic preparations for use in sustainable rice production.