Uniconazole-mediated growth regulation in

Introduction: Methods: Uniconazole was applied at rates ranging from 7.5, 15, and 30 kg/hm². Plant morphological traits, tuber yield components, bioactive compound contents, and environmental residues were systematically evaluated. Hormonal profiling and degradation kinetics were also assessed to elucidate physiological mechanisms and ecological safety. Results: Uniconazole application inhibited vegetative growth, reducing plant height and leaf biomass. However, it markedly increased tuber yield-by up to 101.59%-through hormone-mediated morphological remodeling. This was driven by disruptions in endogenous hormone homeostasis, particularly in Abscisic Acid (ABA) - Gibberellic acid 3 (GA Conclusion: While Uniconazole enhances short-term economic returns through yield amplification, it poses substantial challenges to medicinal quality and regulatory compliance. The induced morphological deviations complicate adherence to Chinese Pharmacopoeia identification standards and may increase adulteration risks. Most concerning is the sharp reduction in saponins, which undermines clinical efficacy and pharmaceutical processing. This study calls for urgent policy reforms, including mandatory quantification of bioactive markers and routine residue monitoring, to safeguard the integrity of medicinal plant supply chains. A balanced cultivation paradigm is essential-one that reconciles agricultural intensification with the core therapeutic values of medicinal crops: efficacy, safety, and authenticity.