Encapsulation of essential oil obtained by distillation methods from Azorean Cryptomeria japonica foliage in two different seasons and its impact in antimicrobial, neuroprotective and toxicity effects against Artemia salina

Objectives

Azorean Cryptomeria japonica foliage essential oil (CJF-EO) exhibit antimicrobial properties against a variety of microorganisms, including pathogenic bacteria and fungi, as extensively published by our research group. However, this EO is characterized by instability, high volatility, and hydrophobicity, stemming from its significant content of monoterpene hydrocarbons, particularly α-pinene. Therefore, the aim of this study is to improve Azorean CJF-EO physical properties, for the first time, through encapsulation techniques. The application of these techniques accomplishes several goals, such as, prevent degradation of the EO, allowing for longer storage, better dispersion in aqueous mediums, and act as a controlled release mechanism of the bioactive molecules, which may translate into a better biological activity than the unencapsulated EO.

Next, the efficacy of Azorean CJF-EO encapsulation will be evaluated in terms of its biological activity using the disc diffusion and microdilution methods against important pathogenic bacteria (Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, S. epidermidis, Escherichia coli, Enterobacter cloacae, and Serratia marcescens). On the other hand, agar dilution method will be employed against phytophatogenic fungi Thielaviopsis paradoxa, Penicillium digitatum). Additionally, it will be assessed synergistic, additive, and antagonistic interactions. Additionally, other activities would be tested, such as anticholinesterase and anti-inflammatory activity, with a potential application in health. Encapsulation of Azorean CJF-EO may diversify the local market supply of C. japonica EOs, namely in health, food and pest control industries.