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Essential Oils as an Antifungal Alternative to Control Several Species of Fungi Isolated from Musa paradisiaca: Part III

Summary

Researchers tested six essential oils from common culinary herbs to control fungal diseases that damage bananas after harvest. Thyme, cinnamon, and oregano oils were most effective at preventing fungal growth at concentrations between 600-1000 parts per million. These natural oils could replace synthetic fungicides in banana storage facilities, providing a safer, more environmentally friendly approach to preserving fruit quality.

Background

Banana production faces significant postharvest challenges from fungal diseases including crown rot and fruit decay, which cause considerable economic losses globally. Traditional synthetic fungicides raise concerns about environmental impact, resistance development, and health risks. Essential oils from aromatic plants have emerged as promising natural antifungal agents with established antimicrobial properties.

Objective

This study evaluated the antifungal potential of six essential oils (oregano, rosemary, clove, thyme, cinnamon, and basil) against five fungal species isolated from infected banana peels. The research aimed to determine effective concentrations and identify sustainable alternatives to synthetic fungicides for postharvest banana disease management.

Results

Thyme oil exhibited the strongest inhibitory effect with complete growth suppression at 1000 ppm, while cinnamon and oregano demonstrated effective inhibition at 600 ppm. Clove, rosemary, and basil were markedly less effective. Statistical analysis confirmed significant effects of oil type and concentration on fungal growth (p<0.001), with molecular identification showing bootstrap values above 93% for most clades.

Conclusion

Specific essential oils, particularly thyme, cinnamon, and oregano, show promise as sustainable alternatives to synthetic fungicides for controlling banana postharvest diseases. These findings support the selective use of essential oils in integrated control strategies and provide a molecularly supported basis for their targeted application in banana disease management.
  • Published in:Microorganisms,
  • Study Type:Experimental Research Study,
  • Source: 10.3390/microorganisms13071663; PMID: 40732172
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