Thyme-based oil extraction for the biological control of phytopathogenic fungi.

Abstract

Phytopathogenic fungi spread mainly through spores, which are small and light reproductive structures that can be transported by wind, water, insects or any other external agent. Their control can be carried out through different agronomic practices, such as crop rotation, adequate fertilization and cleaning of plant debris. In addition to the use of specific chemical products, called fungicides, it may be necessary in cases of high incidence of fungal diseases. Thymus vulgaris L. is a subshrub of the Lamiaceae family, which is perennial and aromatic, rich in essential oil, whose main component is thymol, comprising about 350 species of perennial and aromatic herbs and shrubs, predominantly found in the Mediterranean region, Asia, southern Europe, and North Africa. There are several methods by which essential oils can be extracted from different plant samples. The methods used correspond to: expression, steam distillation, extraction with volatile solvents, enfleurage and with supercritical fluids. The aim of this work is to compile a bibliographic compilation on the extraction of thyme-based oils.