Plant Extracts as Antimicrobial Agents in Sustainable Conservation of Erythrina caffra (Fabaceae) Historical Trees

Microbial colonization plays a relevant role in the biodegradation and biodeterioration of cultural natural heritage, representing revealing problem conservation strategy. In this study, essential oil (EO) hydro-alcoholic extract (HAE) Origanum vulgare L. (Lamiaceae), an aromatic perennial plant, representative Mediterranean basin, growing spontaneously cultivated all over world, were analysed. Natural products, such as extract, have strong antiseptic antimicrobial properties are ad hoc applied for sustainable Erithryna caffra (Fabaceae). The main taxa revealed damaging these arboreal Bacillus sp., Streptomyces sp. Terribacillus (as bacteria), Alternaria Aspergillus Chaetomium fungi). GS-MS analysis identified carvacrol, thymol their biosynthetic precursors γ-terpinene p-cymene, components, efficiency assayed by vitro methods (Agar Dish Diffusion, Well Plate Diffusion). combining application/exposure both HAE EO, bacterial fungal colonies development has been countered. results confirm possible use plant products valid alternative to traditional synthetic chemical biocides, with full respect environment.