Essential oils in post-harvest disease management: Metabolic impact on Narince ( Vitis vinifera L. cv) grapes against Botrytis cinerea

There is an urgent need for alternative, environmentally friendly post-harvest disease management solutions because of the growing concern over the use of chemical fungicides in agriculture and their detrimental impact on human health and the environment. This study examines the effects of thymol, eugenol, and 1,8-cineole essential oils on the sugar, organic acid, and amino acid profiles of 'Narince' grape berries as well as their effectiveness against gray mold (Botrytis cinerea). Our study has noted that the application of EOs, particularly eugenol, significantly alters the metabolic profile of 'Narince' grapes, enhancing sugar content and modifying the levels of organic acids and amino acids, which suggests a potential for improving grape quality and resistance to Botrytis cinerea. The combined use of eugenol with other EOs and fungicides, as indicated by the treatments OF and OSF, not only displayed a synergistic effect in elevating the concentration of key metabolites but also appeared to be more effective in combating fungal infection compared to individual EO applications. The PCA analysis and subsequent heatmap visualization revealed distinct metabolic clustering among the treatments, with combined EO treatments, especially those including eugenol, markedly influencing the amino acid profile of the berries. Our investigation's results suggest that EOs may offer a viable, eco-friendly alternative to traditional fungicides. Our study also adds to the body of knowledge supporting the advancement of integrated pest management strategies that are efficacious yet environmentally considerate, aligning with the global shift towards more sustainable practices in agriculture and food security.