Published in Scientific Bulletin. Series F. Biotechnologies, Vol. XXV, Issue 2
Written by Elena MIHAI, Daniela ILIE, Alexandra GASPAR-PINTILIESCU, Adriana Florina POPESCU, Mariana POPESCU, Cristina LUNTRARU, Miruna NEAGU, Oana CRACIUNESCU
The aim of this study was to evaluate the properties of sage (Salvia officinalis L.) hydrosols in terms of the antioxidant activity and inhibition of acetylcholinesterase, in order to be used in novel formulas of biopesticides for preventing aphid infestation of crops. Sage hydrosols were obtained as by-products of steam and reflux distillation, respectively, after essential oil extraction from dried aerial parts of the plant. The hydrosols were analyzed for terpenes and polyphenols composition by GC/MS and HPLC. The antioxidant activity of sage hydrosols was evaluated using Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC), 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical inhibition assay and cupric reducing antioxidant capacity assay (CUPRAC). Their pesticide potential was assessed using an experimental model in vitro and colorimetric measurement of acetylcholinesterase inhibition kinetics. The results showed that sage hydrosols contained significant amounts of phenolic acids and flavonoids, exhibiting a positive correlation with the antioxidant activity values. At the same time, sage hydrosols were responsible for acetylcholinesterase inhibition in a dose-dependent manner. In conclusion, sage hydrosols are natural effective products recommended for pest management solutions.
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