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Chemical profile and bioactivity of essential oils from five Turkish thyme species against white mold fungal disease agent Sclerotinia sclerotiorum

Summary

Researchers tested essential oils from five different thyme species grown in Turkey against a common plant fungus that causes white mold disease. They found that oils rich in carvacrol, particularly from Thymbra spicata and Satureja cilicica, were very effective at stopping fungal growth. These natural oils could be used as environmentally friendly alternatives to chemical pesticides in farming.

Background

The Lamiaceae family is diverse in Turkey and rich in essential oils with antimicrobial properties. Sclerotinia sclerotiorum is a soil-borne fungal pathogen affecting over 450 plant species and developing resistance to chemical fungicides. Plant-based essential oils offer environmentally friendly alternatives for disease control.

Objective

To investigate the phytochemical profile, antioxidant properties, and antifungal activity of essential oils from five Turkish thyme species against Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, the causative agent of cucumber stem rot.

Results

GC-MS identified phenolic monoterpenes as predominant constituents, particularly carvacrol and thymol. Thymbra spicata showed highest antioxidant capacity (IC₅₀ = 10.698 mg L⁻¹) and phenolic content (4.771 µg mg⁻¹). Satureja cilicica and T. spicata completely inhibited fungal growth at 1.0 µL/Petri dish with EC₅₀ values of 0.14-1.90 µL/Petri dish.

Conclusion

Thyme-derived essential oils, particularly those rich in carvacrol, show strong antifungal potential against S. sclerotiorum and could serve as environmentally friendly alternatives to chemical fungicides in sustainable agriculture.
  • Published in:Scientific Reports,
  • Study Type:Experimental In Vitro Study,
  • Source: PMID: 41083786, DOI: 10.1038/s41598-025-19622-2
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