Exploring the phytotoxic potential of essential oil of mentha longifolia L Huds and its possible use as a novel bioherbicide

Abstract

Mentha longifolia (L.) Huds. is a perennial herb distributed in Europe, Mediterranean region and some parts of Asia and Africa. In this study, its essential oil was extracted through hydrodistillation. The oil was chemically characterized and its phytotoxic effect was evaluated with the intention for its future use as a novel bioherbicide. Its phytotoxicity was evaluated against Triticum aestivum L. and Oryza sativa L. and their associated weeds (Avena fatua L., Phalaris minor Retz., Echinochloa crus-galli (L.) P.Beauv., and Cyperus rotundus L.) in pre- and post-emergence assay. A significant phytotoxic activity of the oil was observed against all test plants in a dose dependent manner. Further, it was tested for its cytotoxicity in Allium cepa L. root tips. Also, biochemical studies were conducted on the root tissue of T. aestivum and A. fatua. We also prepared nanoemulsion of essential oil and evaluated its effect against Triticum aestivum and Avena fatua under laboratory conditions. newline