In vitro activity of eighteen essential oils and some major components against common postharvest fungal pathogens of fruit

▶ The efficacy of eighteen essential oils against five pathogens (Lasiodiplodia theobromae, Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, Alternaria citrii, Botrytis cinerea and Penicillium digitatum) is demonstrated. ▶ Thyme oil proved to be the most effective inhibitor, totally inhibiting all of the pathogens tested at concentrations of 1000 μl/l and lower, with the exception of a resistant Penicillium strain. ▶ Essential oil of Lippia citriodora was active against all of the pathogens, excluding L. theobromae from avocado. ▶ This work provides a database on the potential use of essential oils against a large range of pathogens of importance for the fruit industry.