Antifungal capacity assessment of the essential oil of Lippia sidoides on Rhyzopus stolonifer, post-harvest disease-causing in strawberries (Fragaria spp)

Abstract

There is a growing interest to explore the potential of native plants in many areas of research. It is known that antifungal capacity of Lippia sidoides which is native to the Brazilian forest, revealing several positive aspects of its application in agriculture and postharvest stages. The strawberry, an important fruit crop, presents a challenge for combating diseases caused by fungi from the field, and postharvest, such as Rhizopus stolonifer. Thus, the aim of this study is to evaluate the essential oil activity of L. sidoides sheets, and check their capacity in control of R. stolonifer in strawberry (Fragaria spp). In vitro tests will be conducted to select the best dose of essential oil, and after, the in vivo test will be conducted associated with an edible film (carboxymethylcellulose), in order to verify the effectiveness of the essential oil in the fungus control. This study will contribute to demand for research and development of new technologies that could promote the cultivation of strawberries, oil extraction and its use in areas of interest, and may include it as a natural fungicide.