SCIENTIFIC INSIGHTS INTO VAPOR PHASE ESSENTIAL OILS AND THEIR BIOMEDICAL APPLICATIONS

The volatile part of essential oils extracted from plants, when dispersed throughout the atmosphere, is known as the vapour phase essential oils, allowing them to interact with microorganisms in the air and the human respiratory tract. The use of vapor phase delivery has gained considerable momentum in recent years because of its superior antimicrobial activity and non-invasive application, in addition to the possibility of using it in the food area, clinical settings and the management of indoor air quality. This review includes detailed information about the chemistry, mechanism of action, antimicrobial and therapeutic applications, drawbacks and future research avenues for vapor phase essential oils. They have been highlighted with regard to the latest scientific data regarding their effectiveness against bacteria, fungi and viruses. Also, the issues of regulation and toxicity and the need for standardization are discussed. The purpose of this article is to give a scientific basis for future research and application.