Oregano essential oil and its main components Thymol and Carvacrol as alternatives to control citrus canker

Plant Essential Oils and their constituents are well-known for properties as antimicrobial agents labeled Generally Recognized Safe (GRAS), prompting studies around usage in the control of food-borne microorganisms phytopathogens. In this study, we evaluated Oregano Oil (OEO), Thymol (THY) Carvacrol (CAR) Xanthomonas citri subsp. ( X. ). vitro antibacterial assays revealed that CAR THY inhibit growth at concentrations 100 µg.mL -1 114 , lower than OEO (136 Bactericidal effects were observed 400 200 ug.mL THY. Investigating potential cellular targets compounds showed after 30 minutes exposure up to 84% cells had membranes disrupted, implicating membrane primary target. Phytotoxicity evaluations using Lactuca sativa Solanum lycopersicum seeds an acute toxic effect all treatments above except S. concentrations. Regarding protective on citrus leaves, no when compared untreated (0.39 0.50 lesions per cm 2 respectively). able reduce significantly canker symptoms (0.18 0.11 addition, leaves treatments. inhibits development lesions. These results show a viable alternative be used management.