Abstract: In this study, Artemisia annua L.seedlings cultivated in pot were treated with NaCl solution at 2-8 g/L for one month.The growth parameters,physiological characteristics were analyzed.Volatile constituents of A.annua were analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS).The influence of salt stress on the seedling growth and volatile constituents of A.annua was assayed.Significant reduction in shoot height and biomass was observed after the treatment with increasing concentration of salt.The salt stress (4 g/L NaCl) caused severe oxidative damage after one month treatment.Simultaneously,the net photosynthetic rate and transpiration rate of seedlings decreased.Salt stress increased the artemisinin content by 44.3%.The volatile constituents were alternated.The relative content of 1,2-benzenedicarboxylic acid bis(2-methylpropyl) ester,calarene,deoxoartemisinin and α-terpineol increased significantly.In conclusion,salt stress can stimulate the biosynthesis of artemisinin and volatile constituents,which can be applied to enhance the bioactive components of A.annua in agricultural practice.

Key words: Artemisia annua L., NaCl stress, physiological characteristics, volatile constituents