Fungi naturally produce many compounds that kill harmful bacteria, fungi, and viruses. This review explores how these fungal compounds could replace antibiotics that no longer work due to drug resistance. These natural substances could be used not only as medicines but also in cosmetic products to prevent bacterial growth and improve skin health.
This research demonstrates that a coating made from chitosan combined with tiny titanium dioxide particles effectively kills three types of mold that spoil mangoes after harvest. The composite coating works by breaking down the mold’s cell membranes and causing them to leak their contents, leading to cell death. This combination is more effective than chitosan alone, with some mold species being completely eliminated at optimal concentrations.
Researchers tested six common cooking and medicinal herbs in oil form to see if they could kill fungi that damage bananas after harvest. Cinnamon oil was the most effective, successfully stopping all five types of harmful fungi at relatively low concentrations. The findings suggest these natural oils could replace harsh chemical fungicides used to preserve bananas during storage and transport, making banana production more environmentally friendly.
Researchers discovered that fig leaves contain natural compounds that can prevent fruit rot caused by Fusarium fungus in melons. When applied to infected melons, the fig leaf extract kills the fungus by damaging its cell membranes and overwhelming it with harmful molecules called reactive oxygen species. This natural treatment could replace chemical fungicides that harm the environment and leave residues on food, offering a safer way to preserve melons during transport and storage.
‘Akizuki’ pears are a popular fruit in China but often develop rot diseases during storage, causing significant economic losses. Researchers identified four types of fungi responsible for this rot and tested chlorine dioxide gas as a treatment. The study found that chlorine dioxide effectively kills these fungi by damaging their cell membranes and works as well as commercial fungicides, offering a safer alternative for preserving pears without harmful chemical residues.
Candida krusei is a yeast that causes serious bloodstream infections, particularly in people with weakened immune systems. Unlike many other fungi, it naturally resists common antifungal drugs like fluconazole, making infections hard to treat. The organism can form protective biofilms and has multiple genetic mechanisms that help it survive antifungal treatment. Researchers are exploring new drugs and treatment strategies to combat this growing health threat, especially in hospitals.
Researchers identified four types of fungi that cause rot in ‘Akizuki’ pears during storage: Alternaria alternata, Diaporthe eres, and two types of Penicillium. They tested chlorine dioxide gas as a treatment and found it effectively stopped the fungi from growing without harming the fruit. This discovery offers a safer, more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional fungicide chemicals for keeping stored pears fresh longer.
This research tested how essential oils from common cooking herbs like oregano, thyme, and cinnamon can prevent fungal diseases on bananas after harvest. Scientists identified five different fungi causing banana rot, then tested six plant-based oils at different strengths to see which ones worked best. Thyme oil was most effective, completely stopping fungal growth at the highest concentration tested. These natural oils could replace harsh chemical fungicides while being safer for people and the environment.
Bananas often develop fungal infections during storage that reduce their quality. Researchers tested whether essential oils from common herbs and spices like cinnamon, clove, and oregano could prevent these fungal infections. The study found that cinnamon, clove, and oregano oils effectively stopped fungal growth at higher concentrations, offering a natural alternative to chemical fungicides that could help keep bananas fresh longer without synthetic chemicals.
Researchers collected rotted walnuts from storage in Shanxi, China and identified five types of Aspergillus fungi contaminating them, with Aspergillus flavus being the most common. They tested cinnamon essential oil as a natural antifungal treatment and found it effectively stopped fungal growth by damaging the fungi’s cell membranes and causing oxidative stress. This research suggests cinnamon essential oil could be used as a safe, natural alternative to chemical fungicides for preserving walnuts and other foods from fungal spoilage.