This research investigated how natural compounds found in essential oils from common Mediterranean herbs could be used to prevent fruit spoilage. The study found that certain natural compounds, particularly citral, carvacrol, and thymol, were effective at stopping the growth of fungi that cause fruits to rot after harvest. This discovery has important implications for food preservation and reducing chemical fungicide use. Impacts on everyday life: • Could lead to more natural food preservatives that extend shelf life of fruits • May reduce harmful chemical residues on foods we consume • Could help decrease food waste by preventing spoilage • Offers safer alternatives for organic food preservation • Could reduce environmental impact of synthetic fungicides