Aromatic herbs with essential oils and their antimicrobial property

Abstract

Aromatic herbs have been mentioned in Ayurvedic classics under certain combinations such as Trijataka, Sugandhi tripala, Panchasughandhika, Mahasugandha of Mishraka gana and they are known for their therapeutic potency since ages. Recent Researchers have also proved their antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, insecticidal and antioxidant properties. They are widely used in medicines and foods because of their potential therapeutic properties. Aromatic oily liquids called essential oils (also called volatile oils) are obtained from the various parts of plants like leaves, buds, fruits, flowers, twig, bark, wood, roots and seeds. Essential oils and their components show promising activities against many food-borne pathogens and spoilage microorganisms in Ayurvedic formulations when tested invitro. Their synergistic and additive effects provide an overview on the antimicrobial efficacy of this combination. In this review an effort is made to provide an overview on the antimicrobial efficacy of these herbs and their combinations.