Combination of nanoparticles (NPs) and essential oils (EOs) as promising alternatives to non-effective antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral agents: A review

• Published in: Biocatalysis and agricultural biotechnology Vol. 57; p. 103067
• Main Authors: El-Gebaly, Atef S., Sofy, Ahmed R., Hmed, Ahmed A., Youssef, Ahmed M.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier Ltd 01.04.2024
• Subjects: Antifungal; Antimicrobial agent; Antiviral agents; Essential oils (EOs); Metal nanoparticles; Metal nanoparticles; Antiviral agents; Essential oils (EOs); Antifungal; Antimicrobial agent
• ISSN: 1878-8181; 1878-8181
• DOI: 10.1016/j.bcab.2024.103067

The biogenic synthesis of metal nanoparticles (MNPs) by reducing metal ions with secondary metabolites of plant essential oils (EOs) is a one-step process that is also environmentally beneficial. This biogenic synthesis of metal nanoparticles is a relatively quick and simple procedure that may be carried out at low temperatures and pressures. Essential oils (EOs) are complex fats with a variety of constituents, some of which are volatile, organic, and physiologically active. They are widely used in a variety of industries, including the food, cosmetics, and medical sectors. Moreover, biosafety or ecologically friendly methods are used in the manufacturing of metal nanoparticles with EOs. Due to the overuse or underuse of antibiotics, a multidrug resistance problem has emerged all over the world. Antibiotic resistance has emerged in the majority of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, protozoans, and others, and this problem is now recognized as a global concern. (EOs) and metallic nanoparticles have antiseptic activity, making them a viable remedy for microbial resistance. Furthermore, essential oils have become a promising, effective and essential alternative in various areas of life. •The process of creating metal nanoparticles by biogenic synthesis is comparatively rapid and easy.•The synthesis of metal nanoparticles using EOs is either biosafe or ecologically benign.•EOs are complex lipids used in the food, cosmetics, and beneficial industries.•A unique approach to antibacterial effects could be the synergistic combination of EOs with metallic nanoparticles.