Bioactivity and phytochemistry of the essential oil of Cinnamomum amoenum: a study focused on antimicrobial resistance

Essential oils (EOs) have gained prominence as promising sources of bioactive compounds with therapeutic potential, particularly in combating antimicrobial resistance, a growing global public health issue. The improper use of conventional antimicrobials has exacerbated this problem, making the search for effective natural alternatives increasingly urgent. In this context, Brazil, with its vast biodiversity, represents a rich source of plants whose essential oils may offer significant antimicrobial properties. Cinnamomum amoenum, a species within the genus Cinnamomum, is recognized for its pharmacological properties, including antimicrobial activity. This study aimed to determine the chemical composition of the EO of C. amoenum using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and evaluate its antimicrobial activity through the broth microdilution technique. The analysis of C. amoenum EO revealed 29 compounds, with the predominance of myristic aldehyde (13.88%), hexadecanal (11.32%), and β-caryophyllene (9.32%). The EO exhibited antimicrobial activity against all tested Gram-positive bacteria, with minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) ranging from 7,000 µg/mL to 1,750 µg/mL. It also demonstrated bactericidal and bacteriostatic activity against Salmonella Enteritidis, as well as antifungal activity against Candida albicans at the same concentrations. These findings suggest that the EO of C. amoenum is a promising source of antimicrobial compounds, standing out as a viable alternative in the fight against antimicrobial resistance.