Usages of Thai basil oil vapour in controlling Colletotrichum sp. in postharvest storage of 'Nam Dok Mai Si Thong' mangoes

Abstract

This study ultimately aimed to investigate the inhibition of Colletotrichum sp., the primary pathogen causing postharvest disease on mangoes, by Thai basil (Ocimum basilicum var. thyrsiflora) oil vapour. The in vitro fungus inhibition was conducted on the duo culture plate using the oil raged from 50 to 1,500 μL L-1air space. The ex vitro study was by storing commercially mature mango (ca. 450 g) fruit in a 1-L perforated plastic container (with 12 needle holes) with 0, 13, 25, 63, 250 and 500 μL of the essential oil on cotton balls. The appearance and physical observation indexes of the mangoes were observed. The results showed that Thai basil oil illustrated >50% inhibition with 125 μL L-1air space. The quality traits showed that the lower amount of oil (25-13 μL) could maintain acceptable characteristics of mangoes. Consequently, Thai basil oil has the potential to be a natural antifungal agent for maintaining the appearance quality of postharvest mangoes.