Search Results (13)

This study evaluated and compared two encapsulation techniques—co-crystallization and ionic gelation—for stabilizing bioactive components derived from lavender distillation residues. Utilizing aqueous ethanol extraction (solid residues) and concentration (liquid residues), phenolic-rich extracts were incorporated into encapsulation matrices and processed under controlled conditions. Comprehensive characterization included encapsulation efficiency (Ef), antioxidant activity (AA), moisture content, hygroscopicity, dissolution time, bulk density, and color parameters (L*, a*, b*). Co-crystallization outperformed ionic gelation across most criteria, achieving significantly higher Ef (>150%) and superior functional properties such as lower moisture content (<0.5%), negative hygroscopicity (−6%), and faster dissolution (<60 s). These features suggested enhanced physicochemical stability and suitability for applications requiring long shelf life and rapid solubility. In contrast, extruded beads exhibited high moisture levels (94.0–95.4%) but allowed better control over morphological features. The work introduced a mild-processing approach applied innovatively to the valorization of lavender distillation waste through structurally stable phenolic delivery systems. By systematically benchmarking two distinct encapsulation strategies under equivalent formulation conditions, this study advanced current understanding in bioactive microencapsulation and offers new tools for developing functional ingredients from aromatic plant by-products. Full article

In recent years, a significant increase in the market availability of products with a phytostimulant effect on plants has occurred. However, these products are not always low-cost, and their effects on crops are not always reproducible. In this study, an alternative use of lavender, already known for its antimicrobial activity, is proposed: an aqueous extract from self-produced lavender (Lavandula angustifolia Mill., var. Hidcote) flowering tops was tested for its phytostimulant activity on lettuce (Lactuca sativa L., var. Bionda d’estate) cultivated under organic farming management. Lettuce plants were planted in an open field on a private farm (in the Lazio region, Italy): lettuce plants were treated weekly for two months with lavender aqueous extracts while control plants were sprayed with water. Results showed that treatment with lavender extract enhanced fresh edible production and dry biomass (12.08% and 15.09%, respectively) in lettuce plants, as well as leaf area index (28.01%) and photosynthetic efficiency (increased SPAD). At the same time, an increase in mineral content was observed: compared to the control, a 30.46% increase was observed for N, 31.10%, 35.52%, 36.19%, 47.51%, 48.11%, and 91.44% for K, Ca, Mg, P, Mn, and Fe, respectively. All these factors contribute to enhancing the commercial and nutritional quality of lettuce, as well as strengthening its self-defense and extending its shelf life. Results of this study showed that lavender aqueous extract exhibits phytostimulant activity and could be a useful product for obtaining higher yield and better nutritional quality of lettuce in organic farming. Full article

For a given aquatic ecosystem that will be used as a water source, it is necessary to establish the quality of the water from a microbiological point of view by identifying the pathogens present in the water. The aim of this study was to determine and analyze the antimicrobial activity of some biocides derived from garlic (garlic–methanol extract) and lavender (lavender–water extract). Their efficiency was evaluated at different concentrations and contact times. Initially, through specific laboratory analyses, the microbiological characteristics of the river were determined. Biomimetic studies on the antimicrobial activity of biocides based on garlic and lavender in surface waters involved detailed exploration of how the natural antimicrobial properties of these plants can be effectively utilized to treat water contaminated with harmful microorganisms. Both the contact time and the amount of biocide used have a significant effect on the microorganisms of interest. Thus, to describe the degradation rate of coliform bacteria, a pseudo-first-order and zero-order kinetic model was used, $\mathrm{r}=-(\mathrm{d}\mathrm{N}/\mathrm{d}\mathrm{t})=k_{\mathrm{o}\mathrm{b}\mathrm{s}}·t$ şi $r_0=k_{obs}·N_0=k_0$, where r is the rate of degradation of microorganisms (CFU/min), N₀ is the initial number of microorganisms in the aqueous solution (colony-forming unit, CFU), N is the final number of microorganisms after a contact time t (CFU), k_obs is the pseudo-first-order rate constant (min⁻¹), t is the contact time (min), r₀ is the initial rate of degradation of microorganisms (CFU/min), and k₀ is the pseudo-rate constant zero order (min⁻¹). Following 60 min of treatment with 1 mL of lavender-water biocide, the inhibition rate of pathogenic microorganisms in the water reached 59.09%, whereas, under the same conditions, the garlic–methanol biocide achieved an inhibition rate of 40.86%. This study confirms the antimicrobial activity of both lavender and garlic biocides, highlighting their potential in mitigating water pollution caused by pathogens. Full article

Nematodes have a negative impact on crop production and yield. The use of synthetic formulations to control plant parasitic nematodes carries both environmental and human health risks. As these agrochemicals are gradually being phased out, recent research has been focused on finding more environmentally friendly, plant-based alternatives. This study aims to investigate the effectiveness of botanicals, used alone or in artificial blends, in paralyzing Meloidogyne incognita second-stage juveniles (J2s) immersed in test solutions or exposed to vapors. We tested thymol, trans-anethole, and two lavender essential oils, referred to as LEOA and LEOB, which vary in their flower and stem compositions. We also employed in our study Melia azedarach aqueous extract (MWE), already proven to have considerable nematicidal activity. According to our findings, all treatments used individually exhibited considerable efficacy, even LEOA and LEOB first reported herein. In addition, all blends exhibited significant synergism, and the best-performing were trans-anethole/thymol, being synergic to paralyzing J2s for up to two days, and trans-anethole/LEOB as well as trans-anethole/MWE, provoking irreversible paralysis since the first day of J2 immersion in test solutions. Most importantly, the blend of trans-anethole with LEOA displayed the best effective synergism against M. incognita both for immersion and fumigation methods. Lastly, the chemical composition analysis displayed linalyl acetate and β-linalool as the major components of LEOA and β-linalool and eucalyptol as the major components of LEOB. Full article

Liposomes are prominent nanosystems for drug delivery, with potential extending beyond isolated drugs. Ethanol-aqueous plant extracts can be encapsulated within liposomes to protect bioactive compounds (secondary metabolites) from rapid oxidation and enable sustained release. Determining which compound classes are present in each extract and the encapsulation efficiency (EE) of these extracts in liposomes is crucial for nanocarrier functionality. This involves assessing the ratio of bioactive substances within liposomes to the total content. However, quantifying EE for non-isolated compounds poses challenges due to the need for advanced analytical equipment and biosensing approaches. This study introduces an innovative method for EE quantification, using a conductivity electrode (k = 0.842/cm) to establish an EE biosensing technology. By correlating dynamic light scattering (DLS), zeta potential (ZP), and electrical conductivity (Cnd) data with the conductivity meter’s calibration curve, a robust relationship between the free extract concentration and Cnd (r² ≥ 0.950) was established. Lavender-loaded liposomes demonstrated an EE of 56.33%, while wormwood and oregano formulations exhibited high EEs of 94.33% and 91.70%, respectively. In contrast, sage-loaded liposomes exhibited an inadequate EE, encapsulating only approximately 0.57% of the extract. The straightforward quantification of the free extract within liposome formulations, compared to more complex approaches, could facilitate EE determination and support future characterizations. Full article

The blending approach (also known as the ex-situ approach) was used for the deposition of thin composite films comprising poly(vinyl alcohol-graft-methyl acrylate) (PVA-g-PMA) and silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). Firstly, the copolymer aqueous dispersion was synthesized through the redox polymerization of methyl acrylate (MA) on poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) using ammonium cerium (IV) nitrate as the initiator. Then, AgNPs were synthesized through a “green” method using the water extract of lavender based on by-products of the essential oil industry, and then they were blended with the polymer. Dynamic light scattering (DLS) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were used to determine nanoparticle size, along with their stability over time in suspension, during the 30-day period. Thin films of the PVA-g-PMA copolymer, with different AgNP volume fractions varying between 0.008 and 0.260%, were deposited via the spin-coating method on Si substrates, and their optical properties were explored. UV-VIS-NIR spectroscopy and non-linear curve fitting were used for the determination of the refractive index, extinction coefficient, and thickness of the films, while photoluminescence measurements at room temperature were conducted for studying the emission of the films. The concentration dependence of film thickness was observed and showed that thickness increased linearly from 31 nm to 75 nm when the nanoparticles’ weight content increased from 0.3 wt% to 2.3 wt%. The sensing properties toward acetone vapors were tested in a controlled atmosphere by measuring reflectance spectra before and during exposure to the analyte molecules in the same film spot; the swelling degree of films was calculated and compared to the corresponding undoped samples. It was shown that the concentration of AgNPs of 1.2 wt% in the films is optimal for the enhancement of the sensing response toward acetone. The influence of AgNPs on the films’ properties was revealed and discussed. Full article

The aim of this study was to deepen our knowledge on the heritage and traditional uses of some medicinal plants of the Cilento, Vallo di Diano and Alburni National Park (Salerno province) and to evaluate their productive potential, in order to increase possible uses to recover and enhance the territory. Biometric surveys and biomass evaluation were carried out. Two types of aqueous extract were prepared using air-dried samples of six harvested species and tested for anti-germination activity on Lepidium sativum L. Hydrolates were recovered via steam distillation from aromatic species and the chemical–physical characteristics were determined. Historical evidence of industrial activity was collected in the territory of Sanza on Monte Cervati, where lavender essential oil has been distilled in the past century, and characterization of the essential oil components was carried out. The ethnobotanical uses detected mainly concerned traditional medicine and nutritional, ritual, or religious uses. The experimental results highlight that spontaneous medicinal plants could become potential sources of local economic development, with uses not only in the phytotherapeutic sector, but also in others, such as food and agriculture for weed control. Moreover, the evidence derived from industrial archeology could represent a further driving force for the enhancement of the territory’s resources. Full article

Lavender is a valuable perennial plant from the Lamiaceae family. It is grown mainly for its essential oil, but it also contains polar bioactive compounds such as polyphenols and coumarins. Their level depends on the species, cultivars, geographical origin, climatic conditions, harvest time and extraction method. The authors investigated the effect of several extraction procedures (maceration, decoction and ultrasound-assisted extraction) applied to three cultivars of Lavandula angustifolia (Betty’s Blue, Elizabeth, Hidcote) and two cultivars of Lavandula x intermedia (Grosso, Gros Bleu) on the yield of the polyphenolic compounds and antioxidant activity. HPLC analysis showed the presence of rosmarinic acid (2.52–10.82 mg/g), ferulic acid glucoside (2.94–8.67 mg/g), caffeic acid (1.70–3.10 mg/g), morin (1.02–13.63 mg/g), coumarin (1.01–5.97 mg/g) and herniarin (1.05–8.02 mg/g). The content of phenolic acids and flavonoids was higher in lavender, while the content of coumarins was higher in lavandin in all types of extracts. The antioxidant activity was determined by DPPH-EPR assay for antiradical properties (104.58–206.77 μmol Trolox/g) and FRAP assay for reducing properties (79.21–203.06 μmol Trolox/g). The obtained results showed that the cultivar is the dominant factor differentiating the samples. Still, the extraction method plays an important role in the final bioactive substances content and antioxidant properties of obtained extracts. Full article

Lavender aqueous extracts are widely used in the Moroccan traditional medicine for their antibacterial properties. However, previous research have generally focused on investigating the antibacterial activity of lavender essential oils. The aim of this study is to evaluate the antibacterial activity of the Moroccan Lavandula pedunculata (Mill.) Cav. aqueous extract, alone, as well as in combination with extracts of other plant species known for their antibacterial activity: Salvia rosmarinus Spenn., Salvia lavandulifolia Vahl. and Origanum compactum Benth. We have tested the antibacterial activity of L. pedunculata, S. rosmarinus, S. lavandulifolia and O. compactum aqueous extracts individually and in combination against 34 strains using the agar dilution method. The combination effect was evaluated using the fractional inhibitory concentration (FIC). Polyphenol and tannin contents were determined using Folin-Ciocalteu reagent, and then some phenolic compounds were identified using UHPLC-MS. All the extracts displayed a large spectrum of antibacterial activity, especially against staphylococci, streptococci, Mycobacterium smegmatis and Proteus mirabilis. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values reached 0.15 ± 0.00 mg/mL for Staphylococcus warneri tested with S. lavandulifolia and 0.20 ± 0.07 mg/mL for Staphylococcus epidermidis tested with L. pedunculata or S. rosmarinus. Association of the L. pedunculata extract with S. rosmarinus, S. lavandulifolia and O. compactum showed synergistic effects (FIC ≤ 1). Moreover, the association of L. pedunculata with S. lavandulifolia was active against most of the Gram-negative strains resistant to the individual extracts. Determination of polyphenol and tannin contents showed the richness of the studied plants in these compounds. Additionally, chromatographic analysis demonstrated the high presence of rosmarinic acid in all the studied plant extracts. To our knowledge, this is the first study that shows the enhancing effect of the antibacterial activity of L. pedunculata aqueous extract combined with S. rosmarinus, S. lavandulifolia and O. compactum. These results confirm the effectiveness of the plant mixtures commonly used by traditional healers in Morocco and suggest that L. pedunculata might be used as an antibacterial agent either alone or, more efficiently, in combination with S. rosmarinus, S. lavandulifolia and O. compactum. Full article

The aim of this work was to investigate the most promising natural antimicrobials effective for the growth suppression of Xanthomonas spp. bacteria. The research objects were Xanthomonas spp. strains isolated from tubers and stem of plants growing in Lithuania: Xanthomonas translucens NRCIB X6, X. arboricola NRCIB X7, NRCIB X8, NRCIB X9, and NRCIB X10; the supernatants of lactic acid bacteria Lactococcus lactis strains 140/2, 57, and 768/5, Lactobacillus helveticus strains 14, 148/3, R, and 3, Lb. reuteri 3 and 7, Streptococcus thermophilus 43, Enterococcus faecium 59-30 and 41-2; endophytic bacterial strains Bacillus, Pseudomonas, and Paenibacillus spp.; and essential oils of lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), grapefruit (Citrus paradisi), pine (Pinus sylvestris), thyme (Thymus vulgaris), rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis), peppermint (Mentha piperita), lemon (Citrus limetta), aqueous extracts of blueberries (Vaccinium myrtillus), and cranberries (Vaccinium vitis-idaea). The antimicrobial activity of tested substances was determined by agar diffusion method. Supernatants of Lb. reuteri strain 7 and Lb. helveticus strains 14, R, 3, and 148/3 were found to have a high antimicrobial activity against Xanthomonas spp. bacteria strains when compared to the positive control—1.0% copper sulfate (diameter of inhibition zones was 28.8 ± 0.7 mm). The diameter of inhibition zones of supernatants ranged from 23.3 ± 0.6 mm to 32.0 ± 0.1 mm. Thyme (2.0%) and lavender (2.0%) essential oils inhibited the growth of Xanthomonas spp. strains. The diameter of the inhibition zones was from 14.7 ± 0.8 mm to 22.8 ± 0.9 mm. The aqueous extracts of blueberries had a weak antimicrobial activity. The diameter of inhibition zones ranged from 11.0 ± 0.2 mm to 13.0 ± 0.2 mm. Full article

Lavandula pedunculata (Mill.) Cav. (LP) is one of lavender species traditionally used in Morocco to prevent or cure diabetes, alone or in the form of polyherbal preparations (PHP). Therefore, the primary objective of this study was to test the antihyperglycemic effect of the aqueous extract of LP, alone and in combination with Punica granatum L. (PG) and Trigonella foenum-graecum L. (FGK). The secondary objective was to explore some mechanisms of action on the digestive functions. The antihyperglycemic effect of the aqueous extract of LP, alone and in combination with PG and FGK, was studied in vivo using an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). In addition, LP extract was tested on the activities of some digestive enzymes (pancreatic α-amylase and intestinal α-glucosidase) in vitro and on the intestinal absorption of glucose ex vivo using a short-circuit current (I_sc) technique. Acute and chronic oral administration of LP aqueous extract reduced the peak of the glucose concentration (30 min, p < 0.01) and the area under the curve (AUC, p < 0.01). The effect of LP + PG was at the same amplitude to that of the positive control Metformin (MET). LP aqueous extract inhibited the pancreatic α-amylase with an IC₅₀ almost identical to acarbose (0.44 ± 0.05 mg/mL and 0.36 ± 0.02 mg/mL, respectively), as well as the intestinal α-glucosidase, (IC₅₀ = 131 ± 20 µg/mL) and the intestinal glucose absorption (IC₅₀ = 81.28 ± 4.01 µg/mL) in concentration-dependent manners. LP aqueous extract exhibited potent actions on hyperglycemia, with an inhibition on digestive enzymes and glucose absorption. In addition, the combination with PG and FGK enhanced oral glucose tolerance in rats. These findings back up the traditional use of LP in type 2 diabetes treatment and the effectiveness of the alternative and combinative poly-phytotherapy (ACPP). Full article

Plant extracts have been proposed as alternative biocides and antioxidants to be included in a variety of food products. In this work, to assess the potential of French lavender, lemon balm, basil, tarragon, sage, and spearmint to be used as food additives, the chemical profiles and bioactivities of such plant extracts were studied. Furthermore, to evaluate the influence of extraction methods and solvents on the chemical characteristics and bioactivities of the plant extracts, two extraction methods (solid-liquid and Soxhlet extraction) and two solvents (water and ethanol 70% (v/v)) were tested for each plant. Groupwise summary statistics were calculated by plant, extraction method, and solvent, and linear models were built to assess the main effects of those terms and their interactions on the chemical characteristics and bioactivities of the extracts. The results revealed that all factors—type of plant, extraction method and solvent—have influence on the chemical profile and antioxidant activity of the resultant extracts. Interactions between factors were also observed. Hydroethanolic Soxhlet extracts presented the least potential as biopreservatives due to their low phenolic content and reduced antioxidant capacity. Oppositely, aqueous Soxhlet extracts and hydroethanolic solid-liquid extracts showed high contents in phenolic compounds and high antioxidant activities. In particular, the hydroethanolic solid-liquid extracts of lemon balm, spearmint, and sage presented the highest phenolic and flavonoid contents, accompanied by a high antioxidant activity, and they revealed antimicrobial activity against four pathogens (S. enterica ser. Typhimurium, E. coli, L. monocytogenes and S. aureus). These results demonstrate the potential of these natural resources to be incorporated as bioactive preservatives in foods or their packaging. Full article

Essential oils are concentrated natural extracts derived from plants, which were proved to be good sources of bioactive compounds with antioxidative and antimicrobial properties. This study followed the effect of some commonly used essential oils in micellar and aqueous extract on some of the most common pathogenic bacteria. Frankincense, myrtle, thyme, lemon, oregano and lavender essential oils were tested against Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Both micellar and aqueous extracts were used for determination of their minimal inhibitory (MIC) and bactericidal concentrations (MBC). The most active oils were oregano, thyme, lemon and lavender, while the least active were frankincense and myrtle. Oregano oil presented up to 64 times lower MICs/MBCs than ethylic alcohol, if considered as standard, on all bacteria. Most susceptible bacteria were the Gram-positive cocci, including methicillin resistant S. aureus, while the most resistant was P. aeruginosa. With some exceptions, the best activity was achieved by micelles suspension of essential oils, with MICs and MBCs ranging from 0.1% to > 50% v/v. Only oregano and lavender aqueous extracts presented bactericidal activity and only on K. pneumoniae (MIC = 6.3%). Thyme, lemon and oregano oils present significantly lower overall average MICs for their micellar form than for their aqueous extracts. The present results may suggest some formulas of colloid or micelle suspensions of whole essential oils such as oregano, thyme or lemon oil, that may help in antimicrobial fight. Aqueous extracts of oregano or thyme oil with good antibacterial activity could also be used in selected cases. Full article