Search Results (51)

Acne vulgaris is a prevalent inflammatory disorder of the pilosebaceous unit involving follicular hyperkeratinization, altered sebum production, Cutibacterium acnes proliferation, microbiome imbalance, and immune activation. Although antibiotics, retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, and keratolytic agents remain central to clinical management, their long-term use may be limited by irritation, recurrence, adherence issues, and increasing antimicrobial resistance. This narrative review critically evaluates the dermatological relevance of Melaleuca alternifolia tea tree essential oil (TTEO), Mentha piperita peppermint essential oil (PPEO), and polyhydroxy acids (PHAs), as well as their incorporation into biopolymeric delivery systems for acne-oriented topical applications. Following SANRA principles, evidence from clinical, preclinical, ex vivo, and in vitro studies was synthesized, with emphasis on antimicrobial activity, inflammatory modulation, keratolytic and barrier-supportive effects, formulation stability, and release behavior. TTEO shows the strongest clinical support among the reviewed natural bioactives, including reductions in lesion counts and acne severity when applied as conventional or nanoemulsion-based formulations. PPEO is mainly supported by experimental evidence, particularly antimicrobial activity against acne-associated microorganisms, anti-inflammatory potential, and menthol-related neurocutaneous effects, whereas acne-specific clinical validation remains limited. PHAs, particularly gluconolactone, are better supported for barrier improvement, hydration, tolerability, and seboregulation than for direct acne lesion reduction. Hydrogels, electrospun nanofibers, polymeric films, nanoencapsulation systems, and controlled-release platforms may improve local retention, protect volatile or irritation-prone compounds, and modulate active release at the skin surface. However, most biopolymeric platforms still rely on early-stage or indirect dermatological evidence. Overall, biopolymeric delivery systems offer a rational formulation strategy to improve the stability, tolerability, and localized action of selected acne-relevant bioactives, but their clinical translation requires standardized composition, reproducible fabrication, skin-relevant release assays, safety assessment, and controlled human studies. Full article

The increasing incidence of foodborne diseases and the limitations of conventional preservation methods have driven the search for safer, more effective, and sustainable antimicrobial strategies. In this context, essential oil nanoemulsions have emerged as promising alternatives to synthetic preservatives due to their broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity, natural origin, and potential applicability across diverse food matrices. This study critically examines the mechanisms of action of essential oils against pathogenic and spoilage microorganisms and discusses how their incorporation into nanoemulsions can overcome limitations such as low volatility, poor solubility, and chemical instability. The physicochemical principles governing the formation and stability of these nanoemulsions are addressed, alongside the influence of food matrix components (proteins, lipids, polysaccharides, pH, and ionic strength) on antimicrobial efficacy. Evidence from real food systems indicates that nanoemulsions often outperform free essential oils, although the magnitude of the effect strongly depends on matrix complexity and processing or storage conditions. The review further discusses critical aspects related to toxicity, safety, bioaccessibility, sensory acceptance, and regulatory considerations, as well as emerging evidence on adaptive responses and antimicrobial resistance risks associated with sublethal exposure to essential oil nanoemulsions. It is concluded that, despite their considerable technological potential, the industrial application of essential oil nanoemulsions requires further systematic studies in real foods, standardized protocols, and integrated risk assessments to ensure efficacy and safety under practical conditions. Full article

This study examines a low-processed, food-grade extraction concept for peppermint leaves (Mentha × piperita L.) using solvents consistent with the principles of green chemistry and an infusion-like protocol. Primary extraction (2–30 min; 50–100 °C) was carried out using water, plasma-treated nanowater, a glycerol–water mixture (65%), an ethanol–water mixture (50%; at room temperature and at 50 °C), and rapeseed oil. To evaluate the potential use of biomass within a circular economy model, the residue remaining after the first extraction was subjected to secondary extraction under identical time–temperature conditions. Primary and secondary extracts were characterized in terms of total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), essential oil (EO) recovery, and antioxidant activity (DPPH and FRAP), and extraction yields were expressed relative to a 70% methanolic reference (TPC/TFC) and to the initial EO content in the plant material. Under the most favorable conditions (10 min; 100 °C; ethanol–water at 50 °C), the highest extraction yields of polar phytochemicals (TPC and TFC) were obtained with water and nanowater, whereas the ethanol–water mixture (50%) and rapeseed oil provided the greatest recovery of essential oil (up to complete depletion after the second extraction). Antioxidant activity showed a similar dependence on solvent type, with water and nanowater extracts exhibiting the highest DPPH/FRAP values. Importantly, secondary extraction contributed a substantial share of the total recovered bioactive compounds (often >30% of combined TPC/TFC), confirming that post-extraction residues remain a valuable raw material. The results support a practical, sequential strategy for designing peppermint extracts: aqueous and glycerol systems for phenolic-rich extracts, and ethanol and oil systems for essential-oil-enriched preparations, with secondary extraction enabling simple, low-energy biomass valorization. Full article

Nanoemulsions are pivotal carriers which are increasingly adopted as carriers for poorly soluble active molecules. This review provides a critical overview of ‘green’ nanoemulsions, which are systems based on renewable, biodegradable, and non-toxic components and/or using sustainable production techniques. We here focus on the role of food-grade oils (including poly-unsaturated fatty acid-rich sources) and green excipients, with special attention on the interfacial properties of biosurfactants such as proteins, polysaccharides, and small-molecule surfactants. This review provides a critical overview of the formulation principles, interfacial phenomena, and physicochemical stability of green nanoemulsions, with reference to topical and pharmaceutical applications. The performance of nanoemulsions as delivery systems for bioactive lipids, essential oils, vitamins, carotenoids, phenolic compounds, and conventional drugs is examined through representative case studies. Known limitations, including oxidative instability, compositional variability, and difficulties in large scale production, are analyzed along with future opportunities in multifunctional formulations and sustainable processing. Overall, green nanoemulsions emerge as promising next-generation platforms for safe, effective, and environmentally friendly drug delivery. Full article

Wood remains a cornerstone material in construction and outdoor applications, yet its durability is continually compromised by fungal decay and insect infestation. Increasing regulatory restrictions on conventional wood preservatives and growing sustainability demands have intensified interest in bio-based alternatives. Among these, essential oils exhibit strong antifungal and insect-repellent activity but suffer from high volatility, leaching, and limited durability under moisture exposure. This review examines recent advances in chitosan nanoparticle-based encapsulation of essential oils as a strategy to overcome these limitations and enable more sustainable and environmentally responsible wood protection systems. The review synthesizes current knowledge on nanoparticle synthesis routes, physicochemical properties, bioactive delivery mechanisms, antifungal and anti-termite performance, and behavior under moisture and weathering conditions, alongside sustainability and regulatory considerations. The reviewed literature demonstrates that chitosan nanoparticles enhance essential oil retention, stability, and controlled release, leading to improved resistance against biological deterioration compared with unencapsulated formulations. In addition to performance benefits, these nano-enabled systems align with circular bioeconomy principles by utilizing renewable and waste-derived feedstocks while avoiding heavy metals and persistent synthetic biocides. Despite promising laboratory results, challenges remain related to long-term field performance, scalability, and environmental fate. Overall, chitosan–essential oil nano-formulations represent a versatile platform for next-generation, low-hazard wood protection, offering a promising pathway toward sustainable and durable wood preservation technologies. Full article

Fruit peels, a primary fruit processing by-product, are rich in biodegradable polymers (e.g., dietary fibers and proteins) and bioactive substances (e.g., polyphenols, essential oils, and pigments) that are suitable for producing active and intelligent packaging films. In recent years, there is a new trend to utilize fruit peels in the form of powders for film production, which aligns with circular economy principles. In general, fruit peel powders (FPPs) can function as rigid fillers and the polymer matrix in packaging films, forming FPP-filled and FPP-based films, respectively. These two film types exhibit distinct characteristics: FPP-filled films typically have a compact structure with strong molecular interactions, leading to superior mechanical and barrier properties. Conversely, FPP-based films often display a cracked structure with weaker molecular interactions, resulting in inferior mechanical and barrier properties. Despite these differences, both film types demonstrate excellent antioxidant and antimicrobial activities, pH sensitivity, and biodegradability, as well as considerable promise for active and intelligent packaging. This review comprehensively summarizes the preparation methods, structural characteristics, physical and functional properties, and active and intelligent packaging potential of both film types. It also features a multi-dimensional comparison of FPP-filled and FPP-based films’ performance and a discussion of their current challenges and future directions. Full article

Heracleum sosnowskyi Manden., or H. sosnowskyi, of the Apiaceae was first cultivated in the USSR in 1947 as a potential fodder plant. Due to the development of cold-resistant cultivars and the characteristics of H. sosnowskyi, it quickly became feral. As a result, H. sosnowskyi began to spread as an aggressive invasive species in the 1970s and 1980s. By the 90s it had become an ecological disaster. As well as forming monocultures and displacing native species, H. sosnowskyi contains furanocoumarins, photosensitizing compounds that increase skin sensitivity to ultraviolet rays and cause severe burns. In addition, furanocoumarins have cytotoxic, genotoxic, mutagenic and estrogenic effects. H. sosnowskyi also contains essential oils, which are particularly active during flowering and can irritate the mucous membranes of the eyes and respiratory tract, as well as cause allergic reactions in the form of bronchospasm in people with asthma and hypersensitivity. When released in high concentrations, these biologically active compounds have an allelopathic effect on native plant species, displacing them and reducing biodiversity. As H. sosnowskyi is not native; the biologically active compounds it secretes have a xenobiotic effect, causing serious damage to the ecosystems it occupies. However, in parallel with these negative properties, furanocoumarins have been found to be effective in the treatment of cancer and skin diseases. Furanocoumarins possess antimicrobial antioxidant osteo- and neuroprotective properties. Essential oils containing octyl acetate, carboxylic acid esters, and terpenes can be used in the pharmaceutical industry as antiseptic and anti-inflammatory agents. Additionally, essential oils can be used as biofumigants and natural herbicides. A comprehensive approach allows H. sosnowskyi to be viewed in two ways. On the one hand, it is an aggressive alien species that causes significant damage to ecosystems and poses a threat to human health. On the other hand, it is a potentially valuable natural resource whose biomass can be used within the principles of the circular economy. It is hoped that the use of H. sosnowskyi for economic interests can be a partial compensation for the problem of its aggressive invasion, which is of anthropogenic origin. Full article

Several antioxidants play an important role in improving athletic performance. Increased inflammation and oxidative stress during physical performance result in the production of free radicals, including reactive oxygen species (ROS), which leads to fatigue, muscle damage, and impaired performance. However, moderate and transient increases in ROS are physiologically essential, acting as signaling mediators that trigger adaptive cellular responses. Despite their harmful effects on athletic performance, ROS may also enhance physical protection by acting as signaling molecules against increased physical stress. Healthy dietary patterns such as the Mediterranean diet (MD) may contribute to decrease oxidative stress thanks to its content in fruits, vegetables, olive oil, legumes, and herbs/spices. Indeed, the beneficial effects of the MD can be attributed not only to its antioxidant properties but also to its well-documented anti-inflammatory effects, lipid-modulating actions, immune-supportive functions, and modulation of gut microbiota composition, which collectively influence metabolic and physiological resilience. The MD also plays a key role in competitive sport and training. In addition, several researchers have reported that the MD is essential for reducing risk of injury and illness, recovering and adapting between bouts of activity, and enhancing performance. In this context, following the key principles of an MD could also represent a useful framework for good dietary in competitive athletes. In this narrative review, we discuss the potential effects of antioxidants in sport and the impact of individual foods or compounds of the MD on oxidative stress and exercise performance in competitive athletes and physically active individuals. The potential modifications which could be made to the MD will be highlighted to maximize health and performance effects, in accordance with contemporary sports nutrition practices. Full article

Hazelnut cultivation is a strategic agricultural sector in Italy, with Calabria contributing through the native “Tonda Calabrese” cultivar, valued for its biodiversity. Despite its importance, data on the nutritional and compositional characteristics of this cultivar remain limited. In this study, hazelnuts from three different Calabrian producers were analyzed for morphological traits, proximate composition, and elemental content, using both conventional and non-destructive techniques such as CIELab color profiling and ATR-FTIR spectroscopy. The nuts showed high levels of essential micro-elements (Fe, Cu, Zn), aligning with previous findings on other cultivars, and showed no detectable pesticide residues, confirming their nutritional quality. Moreover, this study also aims to explore sustainable valorization strategies for hazelnut by-products, embracing circular economy principles in a “zero waste” approach, including oils and defatted flours. The extracted oils were evaluated for oxidative stability (peroxide value, p-anisidine, TOTOX index) and acidity, meeting Codex Alimentarius quality standards. The residual defatted flour was upcycled through eco-friendly methods, such as Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction (UAE) and Enzyme-Assisted Extraction (EAE), to isolate the polyphenol and protein fractions, respectively. Both extracts exhibited notable antioxidant activity (34.7–35.3 mmol Fe²⁺ eq/100 g and 64.3–82.2 mmol Fe²⁺ eq/100 g, respectively), suggesting their potential use as valuable ingredients for dietetic and nutraceutical applications. Full article

The ban on antibiotic growth promoters (AGPs) in poultry farming has prompted the search for effective, natural alternatives. Essential oils (EOs), such as those from oregano (Origanum vulgare: OVEO) and rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus: ROEO), possess antimicrobial and antioxidant properties that may contribute to intestinal health and pathogen control. This study evaluated the antibacterial activity of OVEO and ROEO, individually and combined, against six Escherichia coli and six Salmonella typhimurium strains isolated from healthy poultry via cloacal swabs, as well as E. coli ATCC 25922 and S. typhimurium ATCC 14028 strains. The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) were determined at five pH levels (7.4–5) simulating avian gastrointestinal tract conditions. EO composition was determined by GC-FID-MS. Checkerboard assays revealed partial or full synergistic effects at most pH, especially under acidic environments (pH ≤ 5.5), where the fractional inhibitory concentration (ΣFIC) values often indicated synergy. No antagonistic interactions were observed. These results suggest that OVEO and ROEO combinations are promising candidates to replace AGPs in poultry, particularly because of their enhanced efficacy under gastrointestinal pH. The strategic use of EO blends may reduce pathogen load, support performance, and limit antimicrobial resistance development, suggesting their potential as natural alternatives to AGPs under One Health principles. Full article

The development of active food packaging has evolved rapidly in recent years, offering innovative solutions to enhance food preservation and safety while addressing sustainability challenges. This review compiles and analyzes recent advancements (2019–2024) in release-type active packaging, focusing on essential oils, natural extracts, and phenolic compounds as active agents. Primarily plant-derived, these compounds exhibit significant antioxidant and antimicrobial activities, extending shelf life and enhancing food quality. Technological strategies such as encapsulation and polymer blending have been increasingly adopted to overcome challenges related to volatility, solubility, and sensory impact. Integrating bio-based polymers, including chitosan, starch, and polylactic acid, further supports the development of environmentally friendly packaging systems. This review also highlights trends in compound-specific research, release mechanisms, and commercial applications, including a detailed analysis of patents and case studies across various food matrices. These developments have already been translated into practical applications, such as antimicrobial sachets for meat and essential oil-based pads for fresh produce. Moreover, by promoting the valorization of agro-industrial by-products and the use of biodegradable materials, emission-type active packaging contributes to the principles of the circular economy. This comprehensive overview underscores the potential of natural bioactive compounds in advancing sustainable and functional food packaging technologies. Full article

Varroa destructor is an ectoparasitic mite that causes a true syndrome with complex symptoms in honeybees. For mite control, several synthetic active principles are commercially available. However, these formulations are proving less effective due to the acquisition of resistance mechanisms by the parasite. Naturally derived compounds, such as essential oils, are less prone to generating resistance mechanisms in mite populations and have been proven effective in numerous independent laboratory investigations. In this study, semi-field and field tests were conducted to evaluate the acaricidal efficacy of two essential oils (Citrus bergamia and Citrus limon), which, in our previous residual contact toxicity tests, showed efficacy against Varroa mites. For semi-field cage tests, two-level cages were set up. Filter paper soaked with different concentrations of essential oils was placed in the lower compartment of the cage; 20 honeybees and 10 Varroa mites were allocated in the upper level. Mite detachment from the honeybees was evaluated after 24 and 48 h. For field tests, cardboard strips soaked with solutions of essential oils at different concentrations were inserted in the experimental hives. Weekly, the strips were replaced, and the fall of parasites on the diagnostic bottom board was assessed. Semi-field tests showed that the essential oils, at the concentrations used, were not toxic to bees. In the semi-field tests, an average acaricidal efficacy of 33% and 60% was obtained, at the highest concentration used, for bergamot and lemon essential oils, respectively. During the 4 weeks of exposure to 600 mL of BEO, the average mite mortality was 28.5%. In the experimental group treated with the intermediate concentration of 1200 mL, the average mite mortality at the end of four weeks was 30.2%, while with the highest concentration of 1800 mL, it was 40.3%. During the four weeks of exposure to 600 mL of LEO, the average mite mortality was 34.1%. In the experimental group treated with the 1200 mL concentration, the average mite mortality at the end of the four weeks was 46.6%, while with the highest concentration, it was 50.7%. This study shows that the acaricidal efficacy observed in field tests differs from that in laboratory tests. Innovative formulations are needed that allow the time-controlled and gradual release of essential oil in the field. Full article

Stored grain pests like Sitophilus oryzae pose significant challenges to food security and quality, necessitating eco-friendly pest management strategies. This study investigates the combined efficacy of reduced doses of diatomaceous earth (DE) and basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) essential oil (EO) as an alternative to conventional pesticides. Laboratory trials evaluated the effectiveness of the treatments—DE, EO, and a mixture of both (at halved doses)—against S. oryzae in wheat, alongside their impact on bread quality and sensory attributes. Results showed that DE and the DE + EO at halved doses combination achieved over 82% pest mortality, comparable to standard DE doses but with reduced mechanical and environmental drawbacks. EO alone demonstrated limited insecticidal activity. Bread made from treated wheat retained high sensory acceptability, with DE enhancing elasticity and crumb aroma. EO-enriched bread exhibited a complex aromatic profile due to methyl chavicol, though with reduced crumb elasticity and a slightly bitter aftertaste. Shelf-life assessments indicated that DE and DE + EO at halved doses extended mold-free storage by one day compared to untreated bread. These findings highlight the potential of combining DE and EO at reduced doses to manage stored grain pests sustainably, aligning with integrated pest management (IPM) and organic farming principles, while preserving the technological and sensory qualities of derived food products. Full article

The 17th Century Casa a Ponente of Palazzo Rocca Costaguta’s wall provided an opportunity for an evaluation based on a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) approach of conservation treatments aiming at removing biological colonization from built heritage surfaces. The investigated surfaces were historic plasters partially covered by a patchy green patina due to biofilm recolonization soon after a previous biocidal treatment. Areas of the biocolonized wall were treated by conservation professionals according to both conventional and “green” (i.e., exploiting natural active principles) biocidal products, including Preventol RI 50 (active substance benzalkonium chloride), Essenzio (active substance essential oregano oil), and hydrogen peroxide. Upon treatment, LCA analysis was conducted to evaluate the environmental impact of the different solutions, including a no-treatment option. LCA analysis was based on on-site investigations of the untreated wall surface with and without biofilm and following the biocidal treatment. The conservation treatment’s impact on the mineral substrate was based on digital microscopy, colorimetry, and water contact angle measurements via an innovative portable method. The results highlighted the impacts of the different biocidal treatments, which, in some cases, have not completely removed the biofilm and, in some cases, have altered the surface properties of the plaster. This pointed out the opportunity to re-think conservation strategy, including LCA analysis as a complementary tool to assess the environmental impact of the different conservation treatments and procedures. Full article

Background/Objectives: The emergence of antimicrobial resistance has urged researchers to explore new antimicrobial agents, such as essential oils (EOs). The aim of this study was to examine chemical composition and antimicrobial activity of the EOs from the needles and green cones of four Pinus species (Pinus mugo Turra., P. nigra J.F., P. syilvestris L., and P. halepensis Miller) from Bosnia and Herzegovina. Methods: Chemical profiles of EOs were assessed by gas chromatography, while microdilution method was used to test their antimicrobial activity. A synergistic action of EOs and gentamicin was investigated by the checkerboard assay. Results: The chemical composition of the tested EOs showed a high percentage of α-pinene, (E)-caryophyllene, limonene, germacrene D, myrcene, and δ-3-carene. EO from green cones of P. sylvestris showed high efficiency against S. aureus and E. faecalis. The MIC of P. nigra cones’ EO was 100 μg/mL against E. coli. The EO of P. halepensis green cones demonstrated the strongest activity against E. faecalis. EOs of P. halepensis needles and green cones exhibited the highest activity against C. albicans. Further, synergistic interaction was detected in combination of the selected EOs/gentamicin toward S. aureus and K. pneumoniae. Conclusions: Among the tested EOs, oils of P. sylvestris cones and P. halepensis cones and needles showed the greatest antimicrobial activity. The same EOs and EO from P. nigra cones displayed synergistic potential in combination with gentamicin, supporting their utilization as antimicrobial agents alone or in combination with antibiotics, which is in line with their ethnopharmacological usage and circular bioeconomy principles. Full article