Determination of antifungal activities of some essential oils against Penicillium digitatum, Penicillium italicum and Penicillium notatum molds.

In this study, the antifungal effects of 138 commercially obtained fixed and essential plant oils were evaluated against Penicillium digitatum (CECT 2954), Penicillium italicum (CECT 2294), and Penicillium notatum (NRRL 807), which are commonly encountered during the storage of agricultural products. As a result of the analyses conducted using agar diffusion, microdilution, and radial growth inhibition methods, a total of 12 oils were found to exhibit antifungal activity against at least one of these species. In particular, thyme oil (80) demonstrated both fungicidal and long-lasting inhibitory effects at a concentration of 1 μL/mL against all tested species. Lemon and peppermint oils, on the other hand, exhibited fungistatic effects, with a noticeable decline in efficacy over time. Additionally, some oils were found to be only moderately effective against specific Penicillium species. The findings largely align with the existing literature, while also providing some novel contributions. The results indicate that certain essential oils, particularly thyme oil, can be considered as natural antifungal agents. However, considering that their efficacy may decrease over time due to the volatility of their active compounds, advanced technologies such as carrier systems and controlled release are needed.