Antifungal effect of essential oil components against Aspergillus niger when loaded into silica mesoporous supports

BACKGROUNDEssential oil components (EOCs) are known for their antifungal properties; however, their high volatility limits their application as antimicrobial agents. Strategies used for controlling the volatility of EOCs include encapsulation or loading into porous materials. This study evaluated the in vitro antifungal activity of selected EOCs (carvacrol, cinnamaldehyde, eugenol and thymol) against the fungus Aspergillus niger when loaded into MCM-41 and -cyclodextrin (-CD). RESULTSCarvacrol and thymol in Mobil Composition of Matter No. 41 (MCM-41) displayed remarkable enhanced antifungal properties in comparison to the pure or -CD-encapsulated EOCs. In fact, carvacrol and thymol were able to maintain antifungal activity and inhibit fungal growth for 30 days, suggesting better applicability of these EOCs as natural preservatives. CONCLUSIONSThe sustained antifungal effect of EOCs encapsulated into silica mesoporous supports was described. (c) 2014 Society of Chemical Industry