Biocidal, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities of essential oils extracted from Angelica spp. cultivated on contaminated soils

This study investigated the phytochemical profile and biological activities of the essential oil (EO) distilled from Angelica archangelica L. seeds grown on trace element (TE)-polluted soil, within a phytomanagement context. The effects of soil pollution and mycorrhizal inoculation on EO composition and its antifungal, herbicidal, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties were assessed. The chemical composition of the EO, predominantly β-phellandrene, α-pinene, α-phellandrene, and β-myrcene, remained stable regardless of mycorrhizal inoculation. While antioxidant activity was moderate, the EO exhibited promising anti-inflammatory potential compared to other EO, suggesting its application in health-related products. Furthermore, the EO demonstrated antifungal activity, notably against Zymoseptoria tritici (IC50: 21 mg.L⁻¹), a major wheat pathogen, and inhibited Fusarium culmorum, Fusarium graminearum and the oomycete Phytophthora infestans growth. It also reduced wheat infection by Blumeria graminis (responsible for powdery mildew) by 40%. Additionally, the EO showed herbicidal effects on ryegrass (IC50: 144 mg.L⁻¹), indicating its potential as a natural pesticide alternative. Overall, A. archangelica EO produced on TE-polluted soils retains desirable chemical and biological activities, supporting its potential for various non-food applications.