Essential Oils: Biological and Industrial Applications

Essential oils, renowned for their multifaceted properties, have been integral to the tapestry of human history, forging connections to our past by evoking memories of cherished places and the aromatic embrace of grandparents’ kitchens. Beyond their nostalgic allure, these oils play a pivotal role in various industries, serving as functional compounds in food matrices, packaging, preservatives, and essential elements in plant protection--ranging from pesticides to antimicrobials and repellents. This book unfolds in ten chapters, presenting a collection of groundbreaking studies on the composition, biological, and pharmacological properties of essential oils. Collaborative efforts from multidisciplinary groups across the globe, including Brazil, Chile, Vietnam, Nigeria, and the Southeast Asian Region, converge to offer a diverse and innovative perspective on the subject. Delving into the intricate world of essential oils, this book encapsulates a wealth of knowledge that transcends geographical boundaries, providing valuable insights regarding the global impact and applications of these extraordinary natural compounds.

Valdir Florêncio da Veiga Jr., a chemical engineer holding a Master’s and Doctorate in the organic and analytical chemistry of Amazonian natural products, advocates for the sustainable use of forest biodiversity. His research focuses on biotechnological methods to enhance the value of residual biomass from agroindustry, applicable in industrial additives, and solutions for defense against chemical and biological weapons. As a Full Professor at the Military Institute of Engineering in Brazil, he significantly contributes to advancing knowledge in natural products while promoting sustainability at the chemistry-environmental conservation nexus.

Isiaka Ajani Ogunwande is an astute terpenoid chemist who has several publications in reputable journals on natural products. His area of specialization involves the isolation, characterization, biological and biochemical applications of essential oils from various parts of medicinal and aromatic plants. He was the Foundation President of Society for Interdisciplinary Research (SIR), Nigeria, and Founder, Society of Essential Oil Distillers and Analysts (SEODA), Nigeria. He is a member of Chemical Society of Nigeria (CSN). He has many awards to his credit.

Since mid-2023, José L. Martinez has moved to the Department of Metallurgical Engineering, at the University de Santiago de Chile. In 2022, he received the degree of Doctor Honoris Causa in Peru for his contributions to the dissemination and development of Latin American medicinal plants. He also received a tribute in Mexico. He has been the creator, founder and editor for 23 years of the Latin American and Caribbean Bulletin of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (BLACPMA), creator of the Latin American Congress of Medicinal Plants (COLAPLAMED) and founder of the Latin American Society of Medicinal Plants (SOLAPLAMED). He has also been the member of the Editorial Committee of various journal of medicinal plants and natural products. He has co-authored more than 60 articles in international journals, more than 120 presentations and scientific conferences and has been the co-editor of 5 books on medicinal plants and author of numerous chapters.