Evaluation of Yield and Composition of Essential Oil from Lemon Balm (Melissa sp.), Geranium (Geranium sp.), and Lemon Verbena (Aloysia sp.) Under Different Fertilization Conditions Using the Aquatic Fern (Azolla sp.)

This project focuses on evaluating the yield and chemical composition of essential oils extracted from three plant species (Melissa sp., Geranium sp., and Aloysia sp.) grown under controlled fertilization conditions. The research stems from the need to drive scientific-technological innovation in the agricultural and productive sectors, fostering collaboration between the Salesian Polytechnic University and Aromavida, a company specializing in essential oil extraction and commercialization. The methodology involves the controlled cultivation and maintenance of the experimental plants and Azolla sp., alongside the comprehensive analysis of soil and water nutrients (N, Fe, K, P) using standardized methods such as Atomic Absorption Spectrometry and visible spectrophotometry. Essential oil characterization will be performed via steam distillation, followed by chromatographic analysis (GC-MS). Furthermore, the biological properties of the extracts will be assessed, including in vitro determination of the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) against bacterial strains and antioxidant activity using ABTS and DPPH assays. The ultimate goal is to optimize the production of high-value compounds through precise management of agricultural inputs.<br/><br/><b>Goal</b>: <br/>To evaluate the yield and composition of essential oils from Melissa sp., Geranium sp., and Aloysia sp. under controlled fertilization conditions.<br/><br/><b>Research lines</b>: <br/>Natural products