Antibacterial activity of essential oils from Thymus vulgaris, Trachyspermum ammi and Mentha aquatica against Erwinia carotovora in vitro

Abstract

Background & Aim: The aim of this study was to assess the bactericidal effect of three medicinal plant species, including <em>Thymus vulgaris</em>, <em>Trachyspermum ammi</em>, and <em>Mentha aquatica</em> on <em>Erwinia carotovora</em> growth. Experimental: This research was done in a factorial to completely randomized design with three concentrations, and three replicates on nutrient agar culture medium. Results &Discussion: Results of this study indicated that the essential oils from the studied plants were effective against <em>Erwinia carotovora</em>. At 300 ppm concentration, diameter of growth inhabitation was 43 mm. Results indicated the essential oil from <em>T. ammi</em>, especially at 300 and 400 ppm concentrations had the highest antibacterial activity against <em>Erwinia carotovora </em>with 43.00 and 46.67 mm diameter of growth inhabitation. In addition, there was no significant difference between 300 and 400 ppm concentrations of <em>M. aquatica</em> and at concentrations of 200, 300, and 400 ppm for <em>T. vulgaris</em>. Recommended applications/industries: The overall results indicated the essential oils, especially <em>Trachyspermum ammi</em> have antibacterial activity against <em>Erwinia carotovora</em>; it seems that the essential oils can be employed in manufacturing desirable bactericidal agents.