Antibacterial Nanoemulsion

Abstract

Provided is a natural antibacterial and antifungal nanoemulsion formulation. [Solution] This document describes an aqueous nanoemulsion formulation containing oil, solvent, sorbate, and saponin in amounts sufficient to form a nanoemulsion of the oil in water, and sufficient water to make up 100 percent by weight. The document also describes the use of the nanoemulsion formulation as a fungicide, insecticide, and / or plant growth regulator.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] [CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 825,927, filed March 29, 2019, the specification of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0002] [background] (a) Field The disclosed subject matter generally relates to natural antibacterial and antifungal nanoemulsion formulations and uses thereof. More specifically, the disclosed subject matter relates to a disinfectant and a fungicide comprising thyme oil, a solvent, a sorbate salt, a saponin, and water. Pest Control This document relates to the formulation of the agent. [Background technology]

[0003] (b) Relevant prior art Plant fungicides and Pest Control Many of the modern fungicides are potentially harmful or toxic to humans, animals and plants. Pest Control Antibacterial or antimicrobial agents often contain organic phenolic compounds as the active ingredient for germicidal activity. Other ingredients usually include high concentrations of solvents and surfactants. When used in high concentrations, the presence of certain solvents and surfactants can synergistically increase the negative side effects of the surfactants, which can in turn increase the negative side effects and potential toxicity of the disinfectant itself. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The present invention uses thyme oil as a plant fungicide, Pest ControlThe objective of the present invention is to minimize the toxicity risk to humans and plants of conventional antibacterial or antimicrobial agents and provide an optimal alternative to the highly synthetic and toxic antibacterial and antifungal preparations used in the agricultural industry. Conventional agents have drawbacks, for example, the need for worker protection, limitations on dosage and effectiveness, as well as environmental pollution resulting in costly and difficult remediation. Certain synthetic surfactants are suitable for this purpose. Therefore, alternative emulsifiers are needed in nanoemulsion systems of natural and essential oils that do not negate the properties and benefits of other natural ingredients.

[0005] The present invention also offers several other advantages over currently available alternatives.

[0006] The use of essential oils (EOs) as antibacterial / fungal agents is well known, but the cost of EOs for use in industrial agriculture is costly. The present invention provides a natural and cost-effective solution to the inherently high cost of EOs by using sorbate, a relatively inexpensive and generally recognized as safe (GRAS) ingredient, to amplify the effectiveness of thymol's antibacterial properties by forming smaller micelles in the nanoemulsion. The net effect is a very powerful antibacterial agent that can rely on relatively small amounts of EO.

[0007] The present invention provides nanoemulsions of a size that are relatively less susceptible to gravitational settling and creaming, meaning that no on-site mixing, stirring or handling of the present invention is required, even after dilution.

[0008] Finally, disease losses are the biggest drain on agricultural productivity. The effectiveness of disease control in reducing crop losses is essential for industrial agriculture. The use of sorbates, such as potassium sorbate, in the system provides synergistic benefits in terms of antimicrobial effectiveness. Potassium sorbate is known to be an effective antimicrobial agent in its own right. It is sometimes called a cell membrane disruptor, which is believed to be its mechanism of action, due to its ability to weaken the cell membrane of pathogens. Similarly, thymol has antibacterial properties with the same mechanism of action on cell membranes. Potassium sorbate weakens cell membranes, enhancing thymol's ability to separate lipid components of cell membranes, resulting in more rapid cytoplasmic leakage and killing of pathogenic cells. This allows for a higher probability of killing pathogens, which in turn reduces disease and increases crop yields. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] [overview] According to one embodiment, there is provided an aqueous nanoemulsion formulation comprising: a) from about 0.05% to about 55% by weight of oil; b) about 0.04% to about 65% by weight of a solvent; c) about 0.01% to about 25% sorbate; d) about 0.00025% to about 0.37% by weight of saponin in an amount sufficient to form a nanoemulsion of the oil in water; e) Sufficient water to make it 100% by weight.

[0010] The oil may be an essential oil, or an active ingredient thereof.

[0011] Essential oils are antibacterial, antibacterial, and bactericidal. Pest Control The composition may be a sesame oil, ... an essential oil, or a combination thereof.

[0012] Essential oils include anise oil, lemon oil, orange oil, oregano oil, rosemary oil, wintergreen oil, thyme oil, lavender oil, clove oil, hops oil, tea tree oil, citronella oil, wheat oil, barley oil, lemongrass oil, cedar leaf oil, cedar wood oil, cinnamon oil, free grass oil, geranium oil, sandalwood oil, violet oil, cranberry oil, eucalyptus oil, verbena oil, peppermint oil, basil oil, fennel oil, fir oil, balsam oil, ochrumea origanum oil, hydastis caladensis oil, and Berberidaceae oil (Berberidaceae daceae). oil), rattan hiaea oil, curcuma longa oil, sesame oil, macadamia nut oil, evening primrose oil, coriander oil, pimento berry oil, rose oil, bergamot oil, rosewood oil, chamomile oil, sage oil, clary sage oil, cypress oil, sea fennel oil, frankincense oil, ginger oil, grapefruit oil, jasmine oil, juniper oil, lime oil, mandarin oil, marjoram oil, myrrh oil, neroli oil, patchouli oil, pepper oil, black pepper oil, petitgrain oil, pine oil, rose otto oil, spearmint oil, spikenard oil, vetiver oil, conifer essential oil, ylang ylang, or a combination thereof.

[0013] The essential oil may be thyme oil.

[0014] The essential oil may be rosemary oil.

[0015] The active ingredient may be thymol, carvacrol, cinnamaldehyde, citral, menthol, geraniol, capsaicin, paracymene, or a combination thereof.

[0016] The oil may be neem oil, cottonseed oil, and combinations thereof.

[0017] The aqueous nanoemulsion formulation may further comprise about 0.0002% to about 0.3% by weight of a pH adjuster.

[0018] The thyme oil may be of natural origin, synthetic origin, or a combination thereof.

[0019] The rosemary oil may be of natural origin, synthetic origin, or a combination thereof.

[0020] The solvents are 1,2-dichloroethane, 2-butanone, acetone, acetonitrile, benzene, carbon tetrachloride, chloroform, cyclohexane, hexane, pentane, tetrahydrofuran, 1,1-dichloroethane, 1,2-dichloroethane, 1-butanol, 1-heptanol, 1-hexanol, 1-octanol, 1-pentanol, 1-propanol, 2-aminoethanol, 2-butanol, 2-butanone, 2-pentanol, 2-pentanone, 2-propanol, 3-pentanol, 3-pentanone, acetic acid, acetone, acetonitrile, acetylacetone, aniline, anisole, benzene, benzonitrile, benzyl alcohol, butyl acetate, butyl lactate, carbon disulfide, carbon tetrachloride, chlorobenzene, chloroform, cyclohexane, and cyclohexanol. , cyclohexanone, dichloromethane, diethyl ether, diethylamine, diethylene glycol, diglyme, diisopropyl ether, dimethoxyethane, dimethylformamide, dimethyl phthalate, dimethyl sulfoxide, di-n-butyl phthalate, dioxane, ethanol, ether, ethyl acetate, ethyl acetoacetate, ethyl benzoate, ethylene glycol, glycerol, heptane, hexane, i-butanol, isopropanol, methanol, methyl acetate, methyl t-butyl ether, methylene chloride, methyl t-butyl ether, N,N-dimethylaniline, pentane, p-xylene, pyridine, t-butyl alcohol, tetrahydrofuran, toluene, trichloroethylene, water, heavy water, and xylene.

[0021] The at least one solvent may be at least two solvents, at least three solvents, at least four solvents, or at least five solvents.

[0022] The at least one solvent may be at least three solvents.

[0023] The at least three solvents may consist of isopropanol, glycerol, and butyl lactate.

[0024] The sorbate salt may be potassium sorbate, sodium sorbate, calcium sorbate, sorbic acid, or a combination thereof.

[0025] The sorbate may be potassium sorbate.

[0026] The saponin may be provided by a plant extract.

[0027] The plant extract may be a Quillaja saponaria extract, a Yucca schidigera extract, a horse chestnut extract, a tea seed extract, a soybean extract, and combinations thereof.

[0028] The plant extract may be a Quillaja saponaria extract.

[0029] The aqueous nanoemulsion formulation comprises from about 0.004 to about 0.5% by weight of Quillaja saponaria extract.

[0030] pH adjusters include citric acid, lactic acid, hydrochloric acid, boric acid, acetic acid, sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide, sulfuric acid, calcium carbonate (CaCO3), ammonium carbonate, ammonium bicarbonate, ammonium citrate, sodium citrate, magnesium carbonate, sodium carbonate, monosodium phosphate, disodium phosphate and / or trisodium phosphate, monopotassium phosphate , dipotassium phosphate and / or tripotassium phosphate, tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane (TRIS), amino acids, and zwitterions, such as glycine, 2-amino-2-methyl-1,3-propanediol (AMPD), N-(1,1-dimethyl-2-hydroxyethyl)-3-amino-2-hydroxypropanesulfonic acid (AMPSO), N-glycylglycine (Gly-Gly), 4-(2-hydroxyethyl)piperazine-1-propanesulfonic acid (EPPS or HEPPS), 3-(cyclohexylamino)-1-propanesulfonic acid (CAPS), 3-(cyclohexylamino)-2-hydroxy-1-propanesulfonic acid (CAPSO), 2-(cyclohexylamino) ... N,N'-bis[2-hydroxyethyl]-2-aminoethanesulfonic acid (CHES), N,N'-bis[2-hydroxyethyl]-2-aminoethanesulfonic acid (BES), (2-[2-hydroxy-1,1-bis(hydroxymethyl)ethylamino]ethanesulfonic acid (TES), 2-(N-morpholino)ethanesulfonic acid (MES), N-[tris(hydroxymethyl)methyl]glycine (tricine); N-tris(hydroxymethyl)methyl-3-aminopropanesulfonic acid (TAPS) and 3-N-morpholinopropanesulfonic acid (MOPS), piperazi-N,N'-bis[2-hydroxypropanesulfonic] acid (POPSO), and combinations thereof.

[0031] The pH adjuster may be at least citric acid.

[0032] The aqueous nanoemulsion formulation may further comprise vitamin C.

[0033] The aqueous nanoemulsion formulation may contain from about 0.002 to about 5% vitamin C by weight.

[0034] Aqueous nanoemulsion formulations may include: a) from about 0.05% to about 55% by weight of oil; b) about 0.005% to about 7.5% by weight of isopropanol; c) about 0.02% to about 30% by weight of glycerol; d) about 0.02% to about 27% by weight of butyl lactate; e) from about 0.01% to about 25% potassium sorbate; f) about 0.0004% to about 0.5% by weight of Quillaja Saponaria extract in an amount sufficient to form a nanoemulsion of oil in water; g) about 0.0002% to about 0.3% by weight of citric acid; h) Sufficient water to make 100% by weight.

[0035] According to another embodiment, the aqueous nanoemulsion formulation of the invention does not contain an added surfactant.

[0036] The pH may range from about 6 to about 9.

[0037] According to another embodiment, the aqueous nanoemulsion formulation may further comprise a surfactant or a further emulsifier.

[0038] According to another embodiment, the aqueous nanoemulsion formulation comprises an additional bactericide, Pest Control Contains no disinfectants or disinfectants.

[0039] According to one embodiment, the aqueous nanoemulsion formulation of the invention is for use as a disinfectant formulation.

[0040] According to one embodiment, the aqueous nanoemulsion formulation of the invention comprises: pest Control of pests Agent and This document is intended for use as a reference.

[0041]

[0041]

[0042] According to one embodiment, the aqueous nanoemulsion formulations of the invention are for use in regulating seed or plant growth.

[0043] Aqueous nanoemulsion formulations have the following advantages: Pest Control The composition may further comprise an agent, a fertilizer, an antifoam agent, a plant growth regulator, or a combination thereof.

[0044] Further Pest Control The agent may be selected from algicides, antifouling agents, bactericides, fungicides (bactericides), fumigants, herbicides, molluscicides, ovicides, rodenticides, insect growth bactericides, virucides, insect repellents, arthropod repellents, nematicides, insecticides, acaricides, herbicides, and plant growth regulators.

[0045] The fertilizer may be selected from the fertilizer group: inorganic fertilizer, nitrogen fertilizer, potassium fertilizer, phosphate fertilizer, organic fertilizer, manure fertilizer, compost, phosphate rock, bone meal, alfalfa, wood chips, langbeinite, cover crops, potassium sulfate, rock meal, ash, blood meal, fish meal, fish emulsion, algae, chitosan and molasses.

[0046] The defoaming agent may be selected from mineral oils, vegetable oils, paraffin waxes, ester waxes, silica, fatty alcohols, silicones, polyethylene glycols, polypropylene glycols, copolymers, and alkyl polyacrylates.

[0047] The plant growth regulator may be selected from carbamates, chlorinated hydrocarbons, cyclohexadione, organic acids, ancymidol, ethephon, gibberellic acid, gibberellin and benazuladenin, maleic hydrazide, NAA, naphthaleneacetamide, paclobutrazol, N-acetylaspartic acid.

[0048] According to another embodiment, there is provided a method of using an aqueous nanoemulsion formulation of the invention comprising diluting the aqueous nanoemulsion formulation with water.

[0049] According to another embodiment, there is provided a method of sterilizing a surface comprising applying an aqueous nanoemulsion formulation of the invention to a surface in need of sterilization.

[0050] According to another embodiment, a method for the treatment of soil, seeds or plants comprising contacting the seeds or plants with a pesticidal amount of the aqueous emulsion of the present invention. pest A method for controlling the

[0051] In the aqueous nanoemulsion formulation of the present invention or the method of the present invention, pest may be selected from insects, nematodes, fungi, bacteria, larvae, plants, animals, viruses, parasites, gastropods, arthropods, snails, slugs, algae, or combinations thereof.

[0052] In the aqueous nanoemulsion formulation of the present invention or the method of the present invention, pest but may also be fire blight, powdery mildew, septoria and botrytis.

[0053] The plant may be a weed.

[0054] The arthropod may be a mite.

[0055] The insect may be a moth.

[0056] According to another embodiment, there is provided a method of modulating the growth of a seed or a plant comprising contacting the seed or plant with a growth modulating amount of the aqueous fungicide formulation of the present invention.

[0057] Modulating growth may include increasing the number of fruits, vegetables, bulbs or tubers of a plant.

[0058] Modulation of growth may include an increase in the size of fruits, vegetables, bulbs or tubers of a plant.

[0059] Regulating growth may include increasing the number of healthy plants.

[0060] The plant may be selected from a banana (plant), an apple tree, a pear tree, a potato (plant), a rice (plant), a coffee (plant), a citrus tree, an onion, a ginseng, a soybean, a weed, a tomato (plant).

[0061] The following terms are defined below:

[0062] In the claims and / or specification, the use of the word "a" or "an" in conjunction with the term "comprising" may mean "one," but may also mean "one or more," "at least one," and "one or more." Similarly, the word "another" may mean at least two or more.

[0063] As used in this specification and claims, the words "comprising" (e.g., any form of comprising, e.g., "comprise" and "comprises"), "having" (e.g., any form of having, e.g., "have" and "has"), "including" (e.g., any form of include, e.g., "include" and "includes") or "containing" (e.g., any form of containing, e.g., "contain" and "contains") are inclusive or open-ended (open-ended) and do not exclude additional, unrecited elements or process steps.

[0064] The term "about" is used to indicate that a value includes a variation of error inherent in the device or method being employed to determine the value.

[0065] It should be noted that terms such as "preferably," "generally," and "typically" are not used herein to limit the scope of the claimed invention or to imply that a particular feature is critical, essential, or even essential to the structure or function of the claimed invention. Rather, these terms are merely intended to highlight alternative or additional features that may or may not be utilized in a particular embodiment of the invention.

[0066] It should be noted that for purposes of describing and defining the present invention, the term "substantially" is used herein to represent the inherent degree of uncertainty that can be attributed to any quantitative comparison, value, measurement, or other representation. The term "substantially" is also used herein to represent the degree to which a quantitative representation may vary from the stated reference without resulting in a change in the basic functionality of the subject matter at issue.

[0067] The term "formulation" as used herein is intended to encompass a product containing specified ingredients in specified amounts, as well as any product that results directly or indirectly from combining specified ingredients in specified amounts. Additionally, formulation refers to a mixture in which the substances in the mixture do not react with each other and have the desired properties as a mixture. Such terms, in reference to pharmaceutical compositions, are intended to encompass any composition made by mixing a formulation of the present invention with a pharma- ceutically acceptable carrier. "Pharmaceutically acceptable" or "acceptable" refers to any carrier, diluent, or other suitable agent that is capable of being administered orally. It also means that the excipients must be compatible with the other ingredients of the formulation and not deleterious to the recipient thereof.

[0068] Mass percent, percent by mass, % by mass, wt%, etc. are synonyms for the concentration of a substance, such as the mass of the substance divided by the mass of the composition multiplied by 100.

[0069] The term "bactericide" as used herein refers to an antimicrobial substance that, when applied, destroys or reduces the growth of microorganisms that live on the surface of the object to which it is applied.

[0070] As used herein, "antimicrobial agent" refers to a substance that kills or stops the growth of microorganisms.

[0071] As used herein, the term "pesticide" includes weeds. pestThe term pesticide includes all of the following: herbicides, pesticides (which may include insect growth regulators, termite killers, etc.), nematicides, molluscicides, fish killers, bird killers, rodent killers, bactericides, insect repellents, animal repellents, antibacterial agents, fungicides, and disinfectants. Herbicides are the most common, accounting for about 80% of all pesticide use. Most pesticides are intended to act as plant protectants (also called crop protectants), generally protecting plants from weeds, fungi, or insects.

[0072] As used herein, the term " Pest Control "Biological agents" are Pest Control It is an abbreviation of "chemicals" and refers to certain substances derived from natural sources such as animals, plants, bacteria, and certain minerals. Pest Control This refers to the agent.

[0073] As used herein, "antiseptic" refers to an antimicrobial substance that is applied to any surface, such as floors, walls, ceilings, or living tissue, to reduce the possibility of microbial contamination, such as infection, sepsis, or putrefaction.

[0074] As used herein, the term "naturally derived" refers to phenolic compounds and saponins that are present or produced in nature. Such phenolic compounds and saponins may be extracted or isolated from their natural environment by any suitable means. Of course, such phenolic compounds and saponins may also be synthesized by the hand of man. Such synthetic equivalents are within the definition of "naturally derived."

[0075] The term "micelles" as used herein refers to aggregates formed by amphiphilic molecules when suspended in an aqueous solution. The length of the detergent's non-polar tail, the nature and size of the detergent's polar or ionic head, the amount and type of saponin, the acidity of the solution, temperature, and the presence of added salts are the most important factors that determine the shape and size of the resulting micelles. Micelles are widely used in industrial and biological fields due to their ability to dissolve and carry polar substances in aqueous media. The carrying capacity of micelles is highly dependent on their size and shape.

[0076] The term "nanoemulsion" as used herein refers to an oil-in-water (o / w) emulsion having a mean droplet size in the range of about 10 to about 1000 nm, or about 20 to about 1000 nm, or about 30 to about 1000 nm, or about 40 to about 1000 nm, or about 50 to about 1000 nm, and more often about 10 to about 500 nm, or about 20 to about 500 nm, or about 30 to about 500 nm, or about 40 to about 500 nm, or about 50 to about 500 nm, or about 100 to about 500 nm, or about 70 to about 300 nm, or about 50 to about 300 nm, or about 10 to about 200 nm, or about 20 to about 200 nm, or about 30 to about 200 nm, or about 40 to about 200 nm, or about 50 to about 200 nm, or about 60 to about 200 nm, or about 70 to about 200 nm, or about 80 to about 200 nm. or about 90 to about 200 nm, or about 100 to about 200 nm, or about 125 to about 200 nm, or about 150 to about 200 nm, or about 175 to about 200 nm, or about 10 to about 175 nm, or about 20 to about 175 nm, or about 30 to about 175 nm, or about 40 to about 175 nm, or about 50 to about 175 nm, or about 60 to about 175 nm, or about 70 to about 175 nm, or about 80 to about 175 nm, or about 90 to about 175 nm, or about 100 to about 175 nm, or about 125 to about 175 nm, or about 150 to about 175 nm, or about 10 to about 150 nm, or about 20 to about 150 nm, or about 30 to about 150 nm, or about 40 to about 150 nm, or about 50 to about 150 nm, or about 60 to about 150 nm, or about 70 to about 150 nm, or about 80 to about 150 nm, or about 90 to about 150 nm, or about 100 to about 150 nm, or about 125 to about 150 nm, or about 10 to about 125 nm, or about 20 to about 125 nm, or about 30 to about 125 nm, or about 40 to about 125 nm, or about 50 to about 125 nm, or about 60 to about 125 nm, or about 70 to about 125 nm, or about 80 to about 125 nm, or about 90 to about 125 nm, or about 100 to about 125 nm, or about 10 to about 100 nm, or about 20 to about 100 nm, or about 30 to about 100 nm.or about 40 to about 100 nm, or about 50 to about 100 nm, or about 60 to about 100 nm, or about 70 to about 100 nm, or about 80 to about 100 nm, or about 90 to about 100 nm, or about 10 to about 90 nm, or about 20 to about 90 nm, or about 30 to about 90 nm, or about 40 to about 90 nm, or about 50 to about 90 nm, or about 60 to about 90 nm, or about 70 to about 90 nm, or about 80 to about 90 nm, or about 10 to about 80 nm, or about 20 to about 80 nm, or about 30 to about 80 nm, or about 40 to about 80 nm, or about 50 to about 80 nm, or about 60 to about 80 nm, or about 70 to about 80 nm, or about 10 to about 70 nm, or about 20 to about 70 nm, or about 30 to about 70 nm, or about 40 to about 70 nm, or about 50 to about 70 nm, or about 60 to about 70 nm, or about 10 to about 60 nm, or about 20 to about 60 nm, or about 30 to about 60 nm, or about 40 to about 60 nm, or about 50 to about 60 nm, or about 10 to about 50 nm, or about 20 to about 50 nm, or about 30 to about 50 nm, or about 40 to about 50 nm, or about 10 to about 40 nm, or about 20 to about 40 nm, or about 30 to about 40 nm, or about 10 to about 30 nm, or about 20 to about 30 nm, or about 10 to about 20 nm.

[0077] The term "pathogen" is intended to mean a causative agent capable of causing disease. Pathogens may also be called infectious agents or simply germs. Usually, the term is used to describe infectious microorganisms or pathogens such as viruses, bacteria, protozoa, prions, viroids, or fungi, gastropods, arthropods, snails, slugs, algae, etc. Small animals such as certain types of worms, insect larvae, and vertebrates (mammals and birds) can also cause disease. However, these animals are generally called parasites rather than pathogens.

[0078] The terms "modulating plant growth" and "growth modulating amount" are intended to mean that the methods and compositions of the invention modulate at least one aspect of plant growth. Modulating growth need not be all aspects of plant growth. For example, the compositions of the invention may modulate the growth of any one of the foliage, leaves, flowers, stems, branches, fruits, vegetables, bulbs, tubers, or other parts of a plant, independent of the other parts of the plant. As used herein, the term "growth modulating amount" is intended to mean an amount of the composition of the invention that modulates at least one aspect of plant growth as defined above. Modulating plant growth may include an overall increase in plant growth. Modulating plant growth may be shown as an increase in the number of healthy plants in a multi-individual plant culture. Modulating plant growth may include promoting fruit ripening. Modulating plant growth may include the following: Modulation of plant growth may include inhibition of bud growth or shoot growth. Modulation of plant growth may include increased flowering. Modulation of plant growth may include modulation of leaf or fruit senescence. The growth modulating amount may span a range of concentrations where an effect may be observed, and each growth modulating effect may be observed even while impairing the growth of other parts of the plant. Preferably, the growth modulating effect may be obtained without phytotoxic effects on the remainder of the plant, although in some embodiments this may not be possible.

[0079] The term "pesticide amount" refers to a given pest This amount refers to an amount of the composition of the present invention sufficient to control the target plant. pest This may change depending on the pest Low concentrations are sufficient to control pest This means that high concentrations are required to control

[0080] The terms "fruit" and "vegetable" are intended to refer to the common linguistic use of "fruit" and "vegetable" to mean the fleshy, seed-related structures of plants that are sweet or sour and eaten raw, such as apples, bananas, grapes, lemons, oranges, strawberries, etc. It also includes the botanical uses of "fruit" and "vegetable", including many structures not commonly called "fruits" or "vegetables", such as bean pods, corn kernels, tomatoes, wheat grains, etc.

[0081] The term "tuber" is intended to mean the enlarged structures of some plant species that are used as storage organs for nutrients. They are used for plant persistence (survival in winter or dry months), for the provision of energy and nutrients for the next growing season's regeneration, and as a means of asexual reproduction. Stem tubers are formed from thickened rhizomes (underground stems) or stolons (horizontal connections between organisms). Common plant species with stem tubers include potato and yam. Some sources also cover modified lateral roots (tubers) in this definition; these are found in sweet potato, cassava, and dahlias.

[0082] The features and advantages of the subject matter of the present invention will become more apparent in light of the following detailed description of selected embodiments, as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. As will be understood, the subject matter disclosed and claimed can be modified in various respects without departing from the scope of the claims. Thus, the drawings and description should be regarded as illustrative in nature, and not as restrictive, with the full scope of the subject matter being set forth in the claims. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0083] Further features and advantages of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings:

[0084] [Figure 1] FIG. 1A of FIG. 1 shows the size of micelles in an aqueous germicide formulation of the present invention compared to the prior art.

[0085] FIG. 1B of FIG. 1 shows the size of micelles in the aqueous germicide formulation of the present invention compared to the prior art.

[0086] [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 shows the antibacterial efficacy of an aqueous disinfectant formulation of the present invention made with natural thyme oil and synthetic thymol crystals.

[0087] [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 shows the antibacterial efficacy of aqueous disinfectant formulations with different compositions.

[0088] [Figure 4] FIG. 4 shows the antibacterial efficacy of an aqueous disinfectant formulation based on nature-identical synthetic thyme oil.

[0089] [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 shows the antibacterial efficacy of an aqueous disinfectant formulation based on oregano essential oil.

[0090] [Figure 6] FIG. 6 shows the antibacterial efficacy of an aqueous disinfectant formulation based on oregano essential oil.

[0091] [Figure 7] FIG. 7 shows the antibacterial efficacy of an aqueous disinfectant formulation based on rosemary essential oil.

[0092] [Figure 8] FIG. 8 shows the antibacterial efficacy of an aqueous disinfectant formulation based on nature-identical synthetic thyme oil, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0093] [Figure 9] FIG. 9 shows the antibacterial efficacy of an aqueous disinfectant formulation based on nature-identical synthetic thyme oil according to an embodiment of the invention used as a concentrate.

[0094] [Figure 10]FIG. 10 illustrates the antibacterial efficacy of a nature-identical synthetic thyme oil based aqueous disinfectant formulation according to an embodiment of the present invention when used at a 1 / 256 dilution.

[0095] [Figure 11] FIG. 11 illustrates the antibacterial efficacy of a nature-identical synthetic thyme oil based aqueous disinfectant formulation according to an embodiment of the present invention when used at a 1 / 512 dilution.

[0096] [Figure 12] FIG. 12 shows the antibacterial effect of Thymox® control treatment against streptomycin resistant bacteria.

[0097] [Figure 13] FIG. 13 shows the disease suppression properties of Taimox® Control treatments in plants infected with Septoria and powdery mildew.

[0098] [Figure 14] FIG. 14 shows the Botrytis suppression properties of the Taimox® control treatment on Stevia.

[0099] [Figure 15] FIG. 15 shows no phytotoxicity with the Taimox® control treatment on Artemisia silvermound.

[0100] [Figure 16] FIG. 16 shows no phytotoxicity in the Taimox® control treatment on Artemisia 'Powis Castle'.

[0101] [Figure 17] FIG. 17 shows the antibacterial activity of a formulation of the invention containing vitamin C. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0102] [Detailed Description of the Invention] In embodiments, an aqueous nanoemulsion formulation is disclosed that includes thyme oil, a solvent, a sorbate salt, a saponin, and water. According to embodiments, the aqueous nanoemulsion formulation may be: a) from about 0.05% to about 55% by weight of oil; b) from about 0.04% to about 65% by weight of a solvent; c) about 0.01% to about 25% sorbate; d) about 0.00025% to about 0.37% by weight of saponin in an amount sufficient to form a nanoemulsion of oil in water; and e) Water sufficient to make it 100% by weight.

[0103] The present invention can be prepared as a concentrated formulation as well as a diluted formulation for a particular use. This can be done. [oil]

[0104] In embodiments, the term oil is intended to mean any non-polar chemical that is a viscous liquid at ambient temperature and has both hydrophobic and oleophilic properties. Oils may have a high carbon and hydrogen atom content, and are usually flammable and surface active. As used herein, oil includes both organic and mineral oils.

[0105] According to one embodiment, the oil is an essential oil or an active ingredient from an essential oil that has a substantially oily character when separated. Essential oils as used herein are concentrated hydrophobic liquids containing volatile (easily evaporates at room temperature) chemical compounds from a plant. Essential oils are also known as volatile oils, ethereal oils, acerolea, or simply the oil of an extracted plant, such as oil of cloves. Essential oils are "essential" in the sense that they contain the "essence of" the plant's aroma, i.e., the characteristic scent of the plant from which they are derived. Essential oils are typically extracted by distillation, often with the aid of steam. Other processes include expression, solvent extraction, sfumature, absolute oil extraction, resin tapping, wax embedding, and cold pressing. They are used in perfumes, cosmetics, soaps and other products, to flavor foods and beverages, and to scent incense and household cleaners.

[0106] With regard to essential oils, some essential oils are classified as antibacterial essential oils, antibacterial essential oils, fungicide essential oils, and / or Pest Control It is known that the essential oils that are the primary active ingredients in the composition of the aqueous nanoemulsions are the essential oils, which are the active ingredients in the composition of the aqueous nanoemulsions, or combinations thereof. Of course, such oils can be used to prepare aqueous nanoemulsions that preserve and take advantage of such properties of the constituent essential oils.

[0107] The essential oils are: anise oil, lemon oil, orange oil, oregano oil, rosemary oil (including Spanish rosemary oil), wintergreen oil, thyme oil, lavender oil, clove oil, hops oil, tea tree oil, citronella oil, wheat oil, barley oil, lemongrass oil, cedar leaf oil, cedarwood oil, cinnamon oil, free grass oil, geranium oil, sandalwood oil, violet oil, cranberry oil, eucalyptus oil, verbena oil, peppermint oil, basil oil, fennel oil, fir oil, balsam oil, ochrumea origanum oil, hydastis caladensis oil, Berberidaceae oil (Berberidaceae daceae) oil), rattan oil, curcuma longa oil, sesame oil, macadamia nut oil, evening primrose oil, coriander oil, pimento berry oil, rose oil, bergamot oil, rosewood oil, chamomile oil, sage oil (including Spanish sage oil), clary sage oil, cypress oil, sea fennel oil, frankincense oil, ginger oil, grapefruit oil, jasmine oil, juniper oil, lime oil, mandarin oil, marjoram oil, myrrh oil, neroli oil, patchouli oil, pepper oil, black pepper oil, petitgrain oil, pine oil, rose otto oil, spearmint oil, spikenard oil, vetiver oil, coniferous essential oil, and ylang-ylang may be any one of these, or a combination thereof.

[0108] In embodiments, the conifer essential oil may be from any suitable conifer, such as cedar, Douglas fir, cypress, fir, juniper, kauri, larch, pine, hemlock, redwood, spruce, and yew. Examples of spruce include Brewer's spruce (Picea breweriana), Sitka spruce (Picea sitchensis), Engelmann spruce (Picea engelmannii), Canada spruce (Picea glauca), Sergeant's spruce (Picea brachytyla), Chihuahua spruce (Picea chihuahuana), Burmese spruce (Picea farreri), Likian spruce (Picea likiangensis), Martinez spruce (Picea martinezii), Dwarf spruce (Picea maximowiczii), Nitaka spruce (Picea morrisonicola), Veitch's spruce (Picea neoveitchii), Caucasian spruce (Picea orientalis), Purple spruce (Picea purpurea), Schellens spruce (Picea schrenkiana), Morinda spruce (Picea smithiana), Sikkim spruce (Picea spinulosa), Rose fir (Picea torano), Wilson spruce (Picea wilsonii), Norway spruce (Picea abies, pine spruce (Picea alcoquiana), alpine spruce (Picea alpestris), dragon spruce (Picea asperata), Qinghai spruce (Picea crassifolia), red spruce (Picea glehnii), Yezo spruce (Picea jezoensis), Korean spruce (Picea koraiensis), Yatsugatake spruce (Picea koyamae), black spruce (Picea mariana), Meyer spruce (Picea meyeri), Siberian spruce (Picea obovate), weighted spruce (Picea omorika), Colorado spruce (Picea pungens, Picea retroflexa, and Picea rubens.

[0109] According to other embodiments, the oil may be neem oil, cottonseed oil, or a combination thereof. [Thyme oil]

[0110] In one embodiment, the active fungicide ingredient of the aqueous nanoemulsion of the invention is thyme oil. Thymol is a derivative of cymene (C 10 H 14 O), a natural monoterpenoid phenolic derivative, isomerized with carvacrol, and is found in thyme oil and extracted from Thymus vulgaris and various other plants. The naturally occurring phenolic compounds used in the present invention may be synthesized by known methods or obtained from vegetable oil extracts.

[0111] In one embodiment of the present invention, the naturally derived phenolic compounds are obtained from plant extracts. In a further embodiment, the naturally derived phenolic compounds are commercially available. In yet another embodiment, the aqueous nanoemulsion formulation of the present invention comprises naturally derived thyme oil, synthetically derived, or a combination thereof. Examples of thyme oils that can be used to make the aqueous nanoemulsion formulation of the present invention are shown in Table 1. [Table 1]

[0112] According to one embodiment, the aqueous nanoemulsion formulations of the invention are comprised of thyme oil containing variable proportions of phenolic compounds such as carvacrol, thymol, para-cymene, and terpinene. The compositions of natural (Nat) or synthetic natural-identical (Syn) thyme oils used in the aqueous nanoemulsion formulations of the invention are shown in Table 2. Thyme oil may be present at about 0.05% to about 55% by weight of the formulation. [Table 2] [Rosemary oil]

[0113] In one embodiment, the oil component in the aqueous nanoemulsion formulation of the present invention is rosemary oil. The components of this oil are α-pinene, camphor, 1,8-cineole, camphene, limonene, and linalool. The rosemary oil may be of natural origin, synthetic origin, or a combination thereof. [Active ingredients of essential oils]

[0114] The oils used in the nanoemulsions of the present invention may also be active isolated components from essential oils, which also have oily properties when substantially isolated. Such components may be, for example, thymol, carvacrol, cinnamaldehyde, citral, menthol, geraniol, capsaicin, paracymene, or combinations thereof. [solvent]

[0115] In one embodiment, the aqueous nanoemulsion formulation of the invention further comprises at least one polar or non-polar solvent capable of solubilizing the phenolic compounds in the thyme oil and other components of the formulation. Non-limiting examples of solvents include 1,2-dichloroethane, 2-butanone, acetone, acetonitrile, benzene, carbon tetrachloride, chloroform, cyclohexane, hexane, pentane, tetrahydrofuran, 1,1-dichloroethane, 1,2-dichloroethane, 1-butanol, 1-heptanol, 1-hexanol, 1-octanol, 1-pentanol, 1-propanol, 2-aminoethanol, 2-butanone, 2-pentanol, 2-pentanone, 2-propanol, 3-pentanol, 3-pentanone, acetic acid, acetone, acetonitrile, acetylacetone ... acetone, aniline, anisole, benzene, benzonitrile, benzyl alcohol, butyl acetate, butyl lactate, carbon disulfide, carbon tetrachloride, chlorobenzene, chloroform, cyclohexane, cyclohexanol, cyclohexanone, dichloromethane, diethyl ether, diethylamine, diethylene glycol, diglyme, diisopropyl ether, dimethoxyethane, dimethylformamide, dimethyl phthalate, dimethyl sulfoxide, di-n-butyl phthalate, dioxane, ethanol, ether, ethyl acetate, ethyl acetoacetate, ethyl benzoate, ethylene glycol The solvents include alcohol, glycerol, heptane, hexane, 1-butanol, isopropanol, methanol, methyl acetate, methyl t-butyl ether, methylene chloride, methyl t-butyl ether, N,N-dimethylaniline, pentane, p-xylene, pyridine, t-butyl alcohol, tetrahydrofuran, toluene, trichloroethylene, water, heavy water, and xylene. In one embodiment, the aqueous nanoemulsion formulation of the present invention further comprises at least two solvents, or at least three solvents, or at least four solvents, or at least five solvents. According to a preferred embodiment of the aqueous nanoemulsion formulation of the present invention, the at least three solvents include isopropanol, glycerol, and butyl lactate. The formulations of the present invention contain from about 0.04% to about 65%, or from about 0.4% to about 65%, or from about 1% to about 65%, or from about 10% to about 65%, or from about 20% to about 65%, or from about 30% to about 65%, or from about 40% to about 65%, or from about 50% to about 65%, or from about 60% to about 65%, or from about 0.4% to about 60%, or from about 1% to about 60%, or from about 10% to about 60%, or from about 20% to about 60%, or from about 30% to about 60%, or from about 40% to about 60%, or from about 50% to about 60%, or from about 0.4% to about 50%, or from about 1% to about 50%, or about 10% from about 50%, or from about 20% to about 50%, or from about 30% to about 50%, or from about 40% to about 50%, or from about 0.4% to about 40%, or from about 1% to about 40%, or from about 10% to about 40%, or from about 20% to about 40%, or from about 30% to about 40%, or from about 0.4% to about 30%, or from about 1% to about 30%, or from about 10% to about 30%, or from about 20% to about 30%, or from about 0.4% to about 20%, or from about 1% to about 20%, or from about 10% to about 20%, from about 0.4% to about 10%, or from about 1% to about 10%, or from about 0.4% to about 1% by weight of the solvent. [Sorbic acid salts]

[0116] In one embodiment, the aqueous nanoemulsion formulation of the present invention comprises a sorbate. The sorbate is mainly used as a preservative in the food industry. However, as mentioned above, the sorbate of the present invention further acts as a co-surfactant to increase the number of micelles in the nanoemulsion, amplifying the antibacterial effect of the aqueous nanoemulsion formulation. The sorbate may be potassium sorbate, sodium sorbate, calcium sorbate, sorbic acid, or a combination thereof.

[0117] In a preferred embodiment, the sorbate is potassium sorbate. Potassium sorbate is GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) for preserving food and has been used as a food preservative that has been used effectively for decades. Studies using potassium concentrations similar to those in body care products have found that potassium sorbate is virtually non-irritating and non-sensitizing [Final Report on the Safety Evaluation of Sorbic Acid and Potassium Sorbate UITO International Journal of Toxicology, 7(6), 837-880 (1988)]. In fact, the toxicity of potassium sorbate is close to that of table salt. Potassium sorbate is also included in the Handbook of Green Chemicals approved by the Natural Products Association and is also approved by Whole Foods Premium Body Care.

[0118] Recent findings continue to examine the safety of potassium sorbate when used in the vicinity of humans and when consumed. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has set a daily tolerance of 3 mg per kilogram of body weight per day. Rats have been fed 300 mg per day with no adverse effects observed. The maximum daily tolerance for humans in the United States is 25 milligrams per kilogram of body weight (mg / kg) per day. For a 150-pound adult, this amounts to 1,750 mg per day.

[0119] In addition, potassium sorbate is said to be safe for agricultural use as a "mold inhibitor." It is known that unsaturated aliphatic monocarboxylic acids such as sorbic acid and their salts are effective in inhibiting the growth of microorganisms in agriculture.

[0120] In the present invention, potassium sorbate contributes to the formation and stability of nanoemulsion droplets or micelles with a diameter of less than 200 nm. The small size of the micelles is believed to be favorable, making the emulsion formulation relatively less susceptible to gravitational settling or creaming. Most importantly, the stability of the formulation is then directly related to its effectiveness. The smaller the nanoemulsion droplets per unit volume (of thyme oil), the higher the number of micelles, which in turn leads to a higher occurrence of contact between the antibacterial formulation and the target microorganism. The crucial advantage of small nanoemulsions is the high stability and solubility of concentrated formulations. As a result, the final diluted product used for cleaning or disinfecting purposes is more homogeneous and thermodynamically stable. The formulations of the present invention may comprise from about 0.01% to about 25%, or from about 0.1% to about 25%, or from about 1% to about 25%, or from about 10% to about 25%, or from about 15% to about 25%, or from about 20% to about 25%, or from about 0.01% to about 20%, or from about 0.1% to about 20%, or from about 1% to about 20%, or from about 10% to about 20%, or from about 15% to about 20% or about 0.01% to about 15%, or about 0.1% to about 15%, or about 1% to about 15%, or about 10% to about 15%, or about 0.01% to about 10%, or about 0.1% to about 10%, or about 1% to about 10%, or about 0.01% to about 1%, or about 0.1% to about 1%, or about 0.01% to about 0.1% by weight of sorbic acid salt. [saponin]

[0121] In embodiments, the aqueous nanoemulsion formulation of the invention comprises a saponin.

[0122] Saponins are a class of compounds found in abundance in a variety of plant species. More specifically, they are amphiphilic glycosides, phenomenologically grouped by the soap-like foam they produce when shaken in aqueous solution, and structurally comprise one or more hydrophilic glycoside moieties linked to lipophilic triterpene or steroid derivatives. Saponins are commonly used as natural nonionic surfactants, emulsifiers, foaming agents, and detergents in a variety of food, cosmetic, agricultural, and pharmaceutical industries. The formulations of the present invention may comprise an amount of from about 0.00025% to about 0.37%, or from about 0.0025% to about 0.37%, or from about 0.025% to about 0.37%, or from about 0.25% to about 0.37%, or from about 0.00025% to about 0.35%, or from about 0.0025% to about 0.35%, or from about 0.025% to about 0.35%, or from about 0.25% to about 0.35%, or from about 0.00025% to about 0.30%, or from about 0.0025% to about 0.30%, or from about 0.025% to about 0.30%, or from about 0.25% to about 0.30%, or from about 0.00025% to about 0.25%, or from about 0.002 5% to about 0.25%, or about 0.025% to about 0.25%, or about 0.00025% to about 0.20%, or about 0.0025% to about 0.20%, or about 0.025% to about 0.20%, or about 0.00025% to about 0.15%, or about 0.0025% to about 0.15%, or about 0.025% to 0.15%, or 0.00025% to 0.10%, or 0.0025% to 0.10%, or 0.025% to 0.10%, or 0.00025% to 0.05%, or 0.0025% to 0.05% by weight of saponin.

[0123] In embodiments, saponin may be provided by a plant extract, such as Quillaja saponaria extract, Yucca schidigera extract, Horse chestnut extract, tea seed extract, soybean extract, and combinations thereof. In a preferred embodiment of the aqueous nanoemulsion formulation of the present invention, the plant extract is Quillaja saponaria extract, and is present in an amount of about 0.004 to about 0.5%, or about 0.04 to about 0.5%, or about 0.04 to about 0.5%, or about 0.4 to about 0.5%, or about 0.004 to about 0.4%, or about 0.04 to about 0.4%, or about 0.04 to about 0.4%, or about 0.004 to about 0.3%, or about 0. ... 0.04 to about 0.3%, about 0.004 to about 0.2%, or about 0.04 to about 0.2%, or about 0.04 to about 0.2%, about 0.004 to about 0.1%, or about 0.04 to about 0.1%, or about 0.04 to about 0.1% by weight of Quillaja Saponaria extract.

[0124] Quillaja extract is a food-safe compound that is capable of forming stable oil-in-water (O / W) emulsions due to the high hydrophilicity of saponins. The emulsions formed are also stable under acidic conditions and in the presence of salts. In the present invention, the surfactant properties of saponins, such as those found in Quillaja extract, are utilized to prepare an effective emulsion-based disinfectant.

[0125] In this invention, the use of natural biosurfactants Quillaja saponin and potassium sorbate provides several advantages in terms of overall safety and convenience, smaller size of the micelles of the nanoemulsion, and effective antibacterial and antimicrobial properties as described below. In this study, we use the surfactant properties of a mixed food-safe surfactant system of Quillaja saponins and a food-grade co-surfactant such as potassium sorbate. The practical application of this invention provides a much-needed alternative to the more toxic and messy antimicrobial agents currently used. Quillaja and other small polar solvents, in combination with sorbate, provide smaller micelles compared to other common commercial surfactants and other detergent-based surfactants. [pH Adjuster]

[0126] In one embodiment, the aqueous nanoemulsion formulation of the invention further comprises about 0.0002% to about 0.3% by weight of a pH adjusting agent. In one embodiment of the invention, the pH adjusting agent is used to maintain the ionic balance of the formulation. Non-limiting examples of pH adjusters according to an embodiment of the present invention include citric acid, lactic acid, hydrochloric acid, boric acid, acetic acid, sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide, sulfuric acid, calcium carbonate (CaCO3), ammonium carbonate, ammonium bicarbonate, ammonium citrate, sodium citrate, magnesium carbonate, sodium carbonate, monosodium phosphate, disodium phosphate and / or trisodium phosphate, monopotassium phosphate, dipotassium phosphate and / or tripotassium phosphate, tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane (TRIS), amino acids and zwitterions, such as glycine, 2-amino-2methyl-1,3-propanediol (AMPD), N-(1,1-dimethyl-2-hydroxyethyl)-3-amino-2-hydroxypropanesulfonic acid (AMPSO), N-glycylglycine (Gly-Gly), 4-(2-hydroxyethyl)piperazine-1-propanesulfonic acid (E PPS or HEPPS), 3-(cyclohexylamino)-1-propanesulfonic acid (CAPS), 3-(cyclohexylamino)-2-hydroxy-1-propanesulfonic acid (CAPSO), 2-(cyclohexylamino)ethanesulfonic acid (CHES), N,N-bis[2-hydroxyethyl]-2-aminoethanesulfonic acid (BES), (2-[2-hydroxy-1,1-bis(hydroxymethyl)ethylamino]ethanesulfonic acid) (TES), 2-(N-morpholino)ethanesulfonic acid (MES), N-[tris(hydroxymethyl)methyl]glycine (tricine), N-tris(hydroxymethyl)methyl-3-aminopropanesulfonic acid (TAPS), and 3-N-morpholinopropanesulfonic acid (MOPS), piperazi-N,N'-bis[2-hydroxypropanesulfonic] acid (POPSO), and combinations thereof. In a further embodiment of the aqueous nanoemulsion formulation of the invention, the pH adjuster is at least one citric acid.

[0127] In one embodiment, the aqueous nanoemulsion formulation of the invention comprises a pH ranging from about 6 to about 9.

[0128] The formulations of the present invention may contain from about 0.0002% to about 0.3%, or from about 0.002% to about 0.3%, or from about 0.02% to about 0.3%, or from about 0.2% to about 0.3%, or from about 0.00 02% to about 0.2%, or about 0.002% to about 0.2%, or about 0.02% to about 0.2%, or about 0.0002% to about 0.1%, or about 0.002% to about 0.1%, or about 0.02% to about 0.1%, or about 0.0002% to about 0.05%, or about 0.002% to about 0.05%, or about 0.02% to about 0.05%, or about 0.0002% to about 0.005%, or about 0.002% to about 0.005%, or about 0.0002% to about 0.0005% by weight of a pH adjuster. [Vitamin C]

[0129] In embodiments, the aqueous nanoemulsion formulations of the invention may include vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid and ascorbate.The aqueous nanoemulsion formulation may have a solubility of about 0.002 to about 10%, or about 0.02% to about 10%, or about 0.2% to about 10%, or about 1% to about 10%, or about 2% to about 10%, or about 3% to about 10%, or about 4% to about 10%, or about 5% to about 10%, or about 6% to about 10%, or about 7% to about 10%, or about 8% to about 10%, or about 9% to about 10%, or about 0.002 to about 9%, or about 0.02% to about 9%, or about 0.2% to about 9%, or about 1% to about 9%, or about 2% to about 9%, or about 3% to about 9%, or about 4% to about 9%, %, or about 5% to about 9%, or about 6% to about 9%, or about 7% to about 9%, or about 8% to about 9%, or about 0.002 to about 8%, or about 0.02% to about 8%, or about 0.2% to about 8%, or about 1% to about 8%, or about 2% to about 8%, or about 3% to about 8%, or about 4% to about 8%, or about 5% to about 8%, or about 6% to about 8%, or about 7% to about 8%, or about 0.002 to about 7%, or about 0.02% to about 7%, or about 0.2% to about 7%, or about 1% to about 7%, or about 2% to about 7%, or about 3% to about 7%, or about 4% to about 7% %, or about 5% to about 7%, or about 6% to about 7%, or about 0.002 to about 6%, or about 0.02% to about 6%, or about 0.2% to about 6%, or about 1% to about 6%, or about 2% to about 6%, or about 3% to about 6%, or about 4% to about 6%, or about 5% to about 6%, or about 0.002 to about 5%, or about 0.02% to about 5%, or about 0.2% to about 5%, or about 1% to about 5%, or about 2% to about 5%, or about 3% to about 5%, or about 4% to about 5%, or about 0.002 to about 4%, or about 0.02% to about 4%, or about 0.2% to about 4%, or contains about 1% to about 4%, or about 2% to about 4%, or about 3% to about 4%, or about 0.002 to about 3%, or about 0.02% to about 3%, or about 0.2% to about 3%, or about 1% to about 3%, or about 2% to about 3%, or about 0.002 to about 2%, or about 0.02% to about 2%, or about 0.2% to about 2%, or about 1% to about 2%, or about 0.002 to about 1%, or about 0.02% to about 1%, or about 0.2% to about 1%, or about 0.002 to about 0.2%, or about 0.02% to about 0.2%, or about 0.002 to about 0.02% by weight vitamin C.

[0130] In one embodiment, an aqueous nanoemulsion formulation of the invention comprises: a) about 0.05% to about 55% by weight of an oil: b) about 0.005% to about 7.5% by weight of isopropanol; c) about 0.02% to about 30% by weight glycerol; d) about 0.02% to about 27% by weight of butyl lactate; e) about 0.01% to about 25% potassium sorbate; f) about 0.0004% to about 0.5% by weight of Quillaja Saponaria extract in an amount sufficient to form a nanoemulsion of oil in water; g) about 0.0002% to about 0.3% (by weight) citric acid; and h) Water sufficient to make up to 100% by weight.

[0131] In one embodiment, the aqueous nanoemulsion formulation of the invention does not contain added surfactants. The aqueous nanoemulsion formulation may, for example, be free of non-natural surfactants that may be harmful to crops or seeds.

[0132] In one embodiment, the aqueous nanoemulsion formulation of the invention comprises an additional bactericide, Pest Control The aqueous nanoemulsion formulation does not contain any disinfectants or antiseptics. The aqueous nanoemulsion formulation may contain thyme oil and additional antiseptics beyond those disclosed herein that have such activity. Pest Control The composition may be free of additional ingredients having fungicidal or disinfectant activity.

[0133] In one embodiment, the aqueous nanoemulsion formulation of the invention comprises a pH ranging from about 6 to about 9. [Surfactants]

[0134] In another embodiment, the aqueous nanoemulsion formulation of the present invention may further comprise a surfactant. As used herein, the term "surfactant" is intended to mean an amphiphilic compound having a hydrophobic group (often called the "tail") and a hydrophilic group (often called the "head"). They are also called detergents and are different from the saponins mentioned above. Surfactants (surface active agents) are generally intended to refer to substances that, when dissolved in water or other aqueous systems, reduce the surface or interfacial tension between it and another substance or material.

[0135] In one embodiment of the invention, the surfactant aids in the dispersion or emulsification of the essential oil within the aqueous carrier. In a further embodiment of the invention, the surfactant increases the number of micelles in the nanoemulsion, enhancing the antimicrobial effect of the aqueous nanoemulsion formulation.

[0136] Non-limiting examples of surfactants according to one embodiment of the present invention include: 1.Anionic alpha sulfomethyl sodium methyl 2-sulfolaurate 149458-07-1 2. Anionic Diphenyl oxide sodium dodecyldiphenyl 1 19345-04-9 3. Anionic Diphenyl Oxide Sodium Decyl Diphenyl Oxide 36445-71-3 4. Anionic sodium dodecylbenzene 68081-81-2 5. Anionic dodecylbenzene dodecylbenzenesulfonic acid 68584-22-5 6. Anionic ether carboxylates Capryleth-9 carboxylic acid 53,563-70-5 and Hexeth-4 carboxylic acid 105,391-15-9 7. Anionic Ether Carboxylate Glycolic Acid Ethoxylate Lauryl 27306-90-7 8. Anionic Isethionate Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate 61789-32-0 9. Anionic Lauryl Ether Sulfate Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulfate 9004-82-4 10. Anionic Lauryl Sulfate Sodium Lauryl Sulfate 151-21-3 11. Anionic Lauryl Sulfate Triethanolamine Lauryl 90583-18-9 12. Anionic Lauryl Sulfate Magnesium Lauryl Sulfate 3097-08-3 13. Anionic phosphate ester Nonoxynol-10 phosphate 51609-41-7 14. Anionic phosphate ester Deceth 4 phosphate 68921-24-4 15. Anionic Phosphanate Amino Trismethylene Phosphonic Acid 20592-85-2 16. Anionic Phosphanate 1-Hydroxyethylidene-1,1-diphosphonic Acid 2809-21-4 17. Anionic Sarcosinate Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate 137-16 -6 18. Anionic Sulfate Disodium Laureth 68815-56-5 19. Anionic xylene sulfonate Sodium xylene sulfonate 1300-72-7 20. Cationic amine oxide Lauramine oxide 1643-20-5 21.Cationic Amine Oxide Cocamidopropylamine oxide 68155-09-9 22. Cationic Amine Oxide Lauryl / Myristyl Amidopropyl 61792-31-2 and Amine Oxide 67806-10-4 23.Cationic Amine Oxide Tallowamine+2 EO 61791-46-6 24. Cationic amine oxide Myristamine oxide 3332-27-2 25. Cationic onium compound Soyethylmorpholinium 61791-34-2 ethosulfate 26.Cationic quaternary dioleyl ethyl ester 94095-35-9 27. Cationic Quaternary Quaternium 18 (Distearyl 61789-80-8) 28. Cationic quaternary alkyl dimethyl benzyl 68424-85-1 29. Cationic Quaternary Quaternium 12 (Didecyl 7173-51-5) 30. Cationic quaternary dialkyldimethylammonium 68424-95-3 31. Amphoteric Betaine Cocamidopropyl Betaine 61789-40-0 32. Amphoteric Betaine Cetyl Betaine 693-33-4 and 0683-10-3 33. Amphoteric Betaine Lauramidopropyl Betaine 4292-10-8 34. Amphoteric imidazolium disodium 68604-71-7 compound cocoamphodipropionate 35. Amphoteric imidazolium disodium 68650-39-5 compound cocoamphodiacetate 36. Amphoteric imidazolium sodium cocoamphoacetate 68608-65-1 compound 37. Amphoteric Sultaine Lauryl Hydroxysultaine 13 197-76-7 38.Nonionic Alcohol Ethoxylates Linear Alcohol (C1 1) 34398-01-1 Ethoxylate, POE-7 39.Nonionic Alcohol Ethoxylates Linear Alcohol (C9-11) 68439-46-3 Ethoxylate, POE-2.5 40.Nonionic Alcohol Ethoxylate Lauryl Alcohol Ethoxylate, 9002-92-0 41.Nonionic alcohol ethoxylate secondary alcohol 84133-50-7 42.Nonionic alkanolamide trideceth-2 carboxamide 107628-04-6 43.Nonionic Alkanolamide PEG-4 Lapecidomide 85536-23-8 44.Non-ionic Alkanolamide PEG5 Cocamide 68425-44-5 45.Non-ionic alkanolamide cocamide DEA 68603-42-9 46.Nonionic Alkanolamide Lauramide MEA 142-78-9 47.Non-ionic alkanolamide cocamide MEA68140-00-1 48.Nonionic Alkanolamide Lauramide DEA120-40-1 49.Nonionic Alkanolamide Oleamide DEA 93-83-4 50.Nonionic alkyl polyglycosides Caprylyl / myristyl glucoside 68515-73-1 and 10615-47-9 51.Non-ionic alkyl polyglycosides lauric / myristyl glucosides 110615-47-9 52.Nonionic alkyl polyglycoside caprylyl / decyl glucoside 68515 -73-1 53.Nonionic amide N,N-dimethyldecanoic acid 14433-76-2 54.Non-ionic biosurfactant Sophorolipid-Non-ionic ester Isopropyl myristate 110-27-0 55.Nonionic ester Isopropyl palmitate 142-91-6 56.Non-ionic fatty acid, derived from natural glyceryl-17 cocoate 68201-46-7 57.Non-ionic fatty acid, derived from natural glyceryl-6 cocoate 68201-46-7 58. Non-ionic fatty acid, derived from natural PEG / PPG-6 / 2 glyceryl 72245-1-1-5 cocoate 59.Non-ionic fatty alcohol Cetostearyl alcohol 67762-27-0 60.Nonionic fatty amine PEG2 cocamine 61791-14-8 61.Nonionic fatty amine PEG2 Tallowamine 61791-26-2 62.Nonionic glycerol ester Glycereth-7 36145938-3 63.Nonionic Glycerol Ester Caprylic / Capric Triglyceride 73398-61-5 64.Nonionic glycerol esters Glyceryl oleate 37220-82-9 65.Nonionic glycerol ester glyceryl stearate 123-94-4 66.Nonionic Lauryl Lactate Lactyl Lactate 910661-93-7 67.Nonionic Sorbitan Ester Polysorbate 80 9005-65-6 68. Lecithin 8002-43-5 69. Polyoxyethylene (20) oleyl ether 9004-98-2 70. Polyethylene glycol hexadecyl ether Polyoxyethylene (20) cetyl ether 2724259 71.Polyethylene glycol oleyl ether Polyoxyethylene (2) oleyl ether 9004-98-2 72. Polyethylene glycol hexadecyl ether Polyoxyethylene (10) cetyl ether 9004-95-9 73.Polyethylene glycol dodecyl ether Polyoxyethylene (4) lauryl ether 9002-92-0 74. Polyoxyethylene (100) stearyl ether 9005-00-9; 75.Polyethylene glycol octadecyl ether Polyoxyethylene (10) stearyl ether 9005-00-9 76. Tetronic 90R4 26316-40-5 77. Tetronic 701 26316-40-5 78. Polyoxyethylene (12) isooctylphenyl ether Polyoxyethylene (12) octylphenyl ether, branched 9002-93-1 79. Polyoxyethylene (12) tridecyl ether 78330-21-9 80. PEG-PPG-PEG Pluronic® L-64 [Other emulsifiers]

[0137] In another embodiment, the aqueous nanoemulsion formulation of the present invention may further comprise other emulsifiers; i.e., agents different from the above-mentioned surfactants. Such emulsifiers include, but are not limited to, egg yolk lecithin, soy lecithin, mustard, sodium phosphate, mono- and diglycerides, sodium stearoyl lactylate, diacetyl tartaric acid ester of monoglycerides, cellulose, oleic acid (oleate). According to a preferred embodiment, the additional emulsifier is oleic acid. Oleic acid as the sodium salt is the main component of soap as an emulsifier. It is also used as an emollient. [water]

[0138] In one embodiment, the aqueous nanoemulsion formulations of the invention are concentrates that contain water, where the water in the concentrate formulation is used in a low percentage to maintain the polarity and solubility of the formulation and to bring the total to 100%. [Fragrance]

[0139] Phenolic compounds are usually associated with a pungent odor that significantly inhibits application. Pest Control The agent composition may further comprise one or more agents that have the dual function of further enhancing the germicidal properties of the composition while at the same time providing a more pleasant odor. Pest Control The agent composition may further comprise one or more agents (fragrances) that give it a pleasant odor. Non-limiting examples of agents that give a pleasant odor and / or enhance the germicidal properties include carvacrol, cymene, cineole, eugenol, thymol, menthol, citral and limonene. Further suitable examples of such agents are within the capabilities of the skilled technician.

[0140] The present invention Pest ControlThe agent composition can be used alone or in combination with one or more substances used in the agricultural environment, i.e. as part of a supplement. Examples of substances include disinfectants, fungicides, bactericides, virucides, insecticides, arthropod repellents, nematicides, insecticides, acaricides, herbicides and plant growth regulators. Pest Control The materials include, but are not limited to, pesticides. Materials also include fertilizers such as inorganic fertilizers, nitrogen fertilizers, potassium fertilizers, phosphate fertilizers, organic fertilizers, manure fertilizers, compost, rock phosphate, bone meal, alfalfa, wood chips, langbeinite, cover crops, potassium sulfate, rock meal, ash, blood meal, fish meal, fish emulsion, algae, chitosan, and molasses. Materials also include defoamers such as mineral oil, vegetable oil, paraffin wax, ester wax, silica, fatty alcohols, silicones, polyethylene glycol, polypropylene glycol copolymers, and alkyl polyacrylates. [ Pest Control Agent]

[0141] Most control measures are directed against the pathogen inoculum and include the principles of exclusion and avoidance, eradication, protection, host resistance and selection, and treatment. Control measures include control of vectors of the pathogen (e.g. insects and nematodes) and chemical control ( Pest Control A variety of chemicals are available for controlling plant diseases, designed to inhibit the growth of (i.e., inactivate or deactivate) or kill the disease-causing pathogens. Chemicals used to control bacteria (bactericides), fungi (fungicides), and nematodes (nematicides) Substances can be applied to seeds, leaves, flowers, fruits, or soil. Soil treatments are designed to kill nematodes, fungi, and bacteria that live in the soil. This eradication can be done using steam or chemical fumigants. Nematodes that live in the soil can be killed by applying nematicides in granular or liquid form. Most soils are well treated before planting; however, certain fungicides can be mixed with the soil at the time of planting. Seeds, bulbs, corms, and tubers are frequently treated with chemicals to destroy pathogens, fungi, and nematodes and to protect the seeds from decay and dieback caused by soil-borne organisms (mainly fungi). Seeds are often treated with systemic fungicides, which are absorbed and protect the developing seedlings. Protective sprays and dusts applied to crop and ornamental foliage and fruit contain a wide range of organic chemicals designed to prevent infection. Protective agents are not absorbed by or mobile within the plant, so they can only protect the parts of the plant that were treated before the infestation of pathogens. A second application is often necessary because the chemicals can be washed away by wind, rain or irrigation or broken down by sunlight, and untreated shoots are susceptible to infection. New chemicals are constantly being developed.

[0142] Apart from plant diseases caused by the above organisms, animals such as rodents and birds are responsible for important pre-harvest damage. Globally, close to 280 million undernourished people could benefit further if more attention was paid to reducing pre- and post-harvest losses due to rodents. It has been recently estimated that rodents can amplify pathogens from the environment and form reservoirs of (zoonotic) diseases. By applying appropriate rodent control methods, it is possible to reduce the risk of rodent-borne diseases in areas where humans, food animals, and rodents live in close proximity to one another. These control measures include animal and bird repellents, and antimicrobials to control pathogens introduced by them.

[0143] Any organism that damages crops or reduces the fertility of the soil pestThese include fungi, bacteria, viruses, insects, nematodes, parasites, gastropods, arthropods, snails, slugs, vertebrates (mammals and birds), algae, and the like. pest Chemicals used to kill or repel pests are called pest control agents. As reported by the EPA, here is a list of examples of pest control agents: [Table 3]

[0144] Pesticides are usually specific pest The main chemical groups represented in pesticides are shown in Table 3: [Table 4a] [Table 4b] [Table 4c]

[0145] Desired Pest Control In order to obtain the agent effect, Pest Control It is within the skill of one of ordinary skill in the art to determine how much of an agent can be added to a composition of the present invention. [Fertilizer and Pest Control Use of fertilizers and pesticides together

[0146] Fertilizer is defined as any material of natural or synthetic origin that is added to soil to supply one or more plant nutrients essential for plant growth. Fertilizers come in various forms. The most typical form is solid fertilizer in granular or powder form. The next most common form is liquid fertilizer. Fertilizers usually provide the following in various ratios: six macronutrients (nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), and sulfur (S)); eight micronutrients (boron (B), chlorine (Cl), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), and potassium (Cu). The most important elements are iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), molybdenum (Mo), zinc (Zn), and nickel (Ni). Fertilizers can be broadly classified as organic (made from organic plants and animals), inorganic or commercial fertilizers. Inorganic fertilizers include: ammonium nitrate, ammonium sulfate, ammonium thiosulfate, calcium ammonium nitrate, calcium nitrate, diammonium phosphate, monocalcium phosphate, potassium chloride, potassium nitrate, potassium sulfate, and thermopotash. Organic fertilizers include: azomite, bioeffector, biofertilizer, compost, cottonseed meal, wastewater diffusion, feather meal, fish emulsion, fish hydrolysate, fish meal, manure fertilizer, maxicrop, olive mill pomace, rebarm, rock dust, seaweed fertilizer, and slurry pit.

[0147] According to one embodiment, in agriculture, the pest control agent is pest It is used to limit damage caused by and stimulate growth and can be used in combination with fertilizers.

[0148] It is within the skill of one in the art to determine how much of any given fertilizer can be added to the compositions of the present invention to obtain the desired fertilizing effect. [Method and use of the formulation]

[0149] In a further embodiment, a method is disclosed that includes further diluting the aqueous nanoemulsion formulation with water, which is used for further dilution as needed, since nanoemulsion formulations of disinfectants are typically prepared on-site from a mixture of components in concentrated solutions.

[0150] In another embodiment, the germicide nanoemulsion formulations of the invention can be used to clean a surface by contacting the surface with an amount of an aqueous nanoemulsion formulation of the invention.

[0151] The aqueous nanoemulsion formulations of the present invention can be applied (sprayed) onto surfaces requiring disinfection by various spraying techniques. In one embodiment, the aqueous nanoemulsion formulations of the present invention are applied using a diffuser or mist blower. Alternatively, the nanoemulsion formulations of the present invention can be formulated into an aerosol formulation. Further methods of applying the nanoemulsion solutions of the present invention are within the capabilities of the skilled artisan. The nanoemulsion formulations of the present invention can be applied directly or diluted before application. Because the nanoemulsion formulations of the present invention are substantially non-corrosive, the formulations can be easily applied without undue damage to existing physical structures (i.e., surfaces).

[0152] In one embodiment, the seed or plant pest A method for controlling pests is disclosed, which comprises contacting a seed or plant with a pesticidal amount of the aqueous nanoemulsion formulation of the present invention. The aqueous nanoemulsion formulation of the present invention can be used for soil sterilization (fungicide, bactericide, virucide), as well as sterilization of vegetables, plants, and botanical materials, including, by way of non-limiting example, seeds, grains, plants, trees, bushes, roots, leaves, weeds, fruits, flowers, crops, grafts, and the like. The aqueous nanoemulsion formulation of the present invention can also be used as insect repellents, arthropod repellents, pesticides, insecticides, nematicides, acaricides, ovicides, larvicides, and adulticides.

[0153] Crops for which the compositions of the present invention may be used include, but are not limited to, bananas, apples, pears, potatoes, rice, coffee, citrus fruits, onions, ginseng, soybeans, weeds, and tomatoes.

[0154] According to another embodiment, a method for modulating the growth of a seed or a plant is disclosed, the method comprising contacting the seed or the plant with a growth modulating amount of an aqueous nanoemulsion formulation of the present invention. According to yet another embodiment, a method for modulating plant growth is disclosed, the method comprising contacting soil, a seed, a plant, or a combination thereof with a growth modulating amount of an aqueous nanoemulsion formulation of the present invention.

[0155] According to one embodiment, modulating growth includes increasing the number of fruit vegetables, bulbs or tubers from the plant. According to another embodiment, modulating growth includes increasing the size of fruits, vegetables, bulbs or tubers from the plant. According to another embodiment, modulating growth includes increasing the number of healthy plants. In another embodiment, modulating growth may be particularly important for plants whose leaves are of particular interest, such as lettuce and other varieties of plants whose leaves are edible. According to another embodiment, modulating growth includes stimulating fruit ripening. According to another embodiment, modulating growth includes inhibiting plant and shoot growth. According to another embodiment, modulating growth is increasing flowering. According to another embodiment, modulating growth includes modulating leaf and fruit senescence. EXAMPLES

[0156] The present invention will be more readily understood by reference to the following examples, which are given to illustrate the invention, without limiting its scope. [Example 1] Evaluation of micelle size of antibacterial nanoemulsions using quillaja and potassium sorbate as co-surfactants

[0157] The purpose of this example is to evaluate the size of micelles in an aqueous nanoemulsion formulation of the invention compared to nanoemulsions made using conventional techniques.

[0158] The antibacterial nanoemulsion of the present invention was obtained by first mixing the solvent, Quillaja quinata, and potassium sorbate until equilibrium was reached. Thyme oil was added slowly and continuously to maintain sustained and continuous solubility. The final formulation was then stirred until a clear homogenate solution was obtained, indicating the formation of small nanoemulsions. The resulting formulation was analyzed under a microscope at 40x magnification and compared with the image of a nanoemulsion made with sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS).

[0159] Figure 1A or 1B shows that nanoemulsions produced with the formulations of the invention result in the formation of very small micelles with diameters ranging from about 10 nm to about 30 nm (the image on the right is the same as the image on the left, but with a scale bar added). In particular, Figure 1A is an electron micrograph of a formulation according to the invention, Tymox® Control (RTU (Ready to Use); 1 / 200 dilution), at a magnification of 60,000x, showing nanoemulsion sizes ranging from, for example, about 29 to about 33 nm. Figure 1B is an electron micrograph of a formulation according to the invention, Tymox® Control (RTU; 1 / 200 dilution), at a magnification of 100,000x, showing nanoemulsion sizes as small as 10 nm (the image on the right is the same as the image on the left, but with a scale bar added). [Example 2] Antibacterial effect of antibacterial nanoemulsions containing thyme oil according to the present invention

[0160] Various formulations were prepared by varying the components in the composition as well as the concentrations. The compositions of the various aqueous nanoemulsion formulations prepared and tested are shown in Table 5. [Table 5]

[0161] The antibacterial efficacy of the aqueous nanoemulsion formulations of the present invention was tested in vitro according to the standards of the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus) were exposed to each formulation for 30 seconds after 24 hours of incubation at 37oC. The next day, colonies were counted and the results were expressed on a logarithmic scale as the reduction in colony count compared to a positive control with known bactericidal effect.

[0162] Referring to Figure 2, the antibacterial efficacy of nanoemulsion formulations containing naturally derived thyme oil (i.e., F15(1 / 256) and F15(1 / 300) formulations) was first tested and compared to a similar formulation made with synthetic thymol crystals as a positive control (i.e., D25b130 formulation containing 23% w / w thymol crystals, 14% w / w isopropanol, 48% w / w SLS, 1.4% w / w citric acid, and 13.6% w / w H2O). As can be seen, both F15(1 / 256) and F15(1 / 300) formulations containing natural thyme oil showed better antibacterial efficacy compared to the D25b130 formulation positive control containing synthetic thymol crystals.

[0163] The antibacterial efficacy of various antibacterial nanoemulsion formulations was also tested, as shown in Figure 3 and listed in Table 5. As can be seen, formulations F17 (1 / 256) and F18 (1 / 256), which contain both Quillaja and potassium sorbate as co-surfactants, showed the greatest antibacterial efficacy compared to the other formulations tested.

[0164] With reference to FIG. 4, the antibacterial efficacy of aqueous nanoemulsion formulations based on F25 formulations containing nature-identical synthetic thyme oils VDH-1 and VDH-2 was also tested. VDH oils are nature-identical essential oils, replicas of true essential oils using the same components isolated from alternative natural sources. They are synthetic oils and have the same accumulation of chemicals as those from plants. As can be seen, both F25(VDH1(1 / 200)) and F25(VDH2(1 / 200)) formulations showed better antibacterial efficacy compared to the D25b130 formulation positive control containing synthetic thymol crystals. [Example 3] Antibacterial Efficacy of Antibacterial Nanoemulsions Containing Oregano Oil According to the Invention

[0165] To demonstrate the versatility of the nanoemulsions of the present invention with different antibacterial essential oils, three nanoemulsions were prepared based on the F25 formula in Table 5 above, but using one or both of the two oregano oils listed in Table 6 below as the active ingredient. In particular, KEM1 nanoemulsion was prepared with oregano hycarvacrol essential oil at a final concentration of 27%, KEM2 nanoemulsion was prepared with oregano hytimol essential oil at a final concentration of 27%, and KEM3 nanoemulsion was prepared with oregano hycarvacrol essential oil at a final concentration of 13.5% and oregano hytimol essential oil at a final concentration of 13.5% (resulting in a final concentration of 27% total oregano essential oil). All formulations were mixed at room temperature for 5 hours. After reaching stability, appropriate stability characteristics were confirmed by incubating two samples of each of the three nanoemulsions at room temperature or at 54°C. Working solutions for testing the antibacterial activity test (described below) were then prepared by diluting 1 mL from each concentrated formulation into 199 mL of water to give a final dilution of 1 / 200 (v / v). [Table 6] [EPA Spray Test Assay]

[0166] To evaluate the antibacterial activity, KEM1, KEM2, and KEM3 nanoemulsions were subjected to a spray test according to the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) standard. In this test, KEM1, KEM2, and KEM3 nanoemulsions were sprayed onto coverslips pre-attached with Staphylococcus aureus, and the coverslips were incubated in tubes containing culture medium. After two days of incubation, the number of tubes without Staphylococcus aureus growth was expressed as a percentage representing the antibacterial efficacy of the KEM1, KEM2, and KEM3 formulations. The positive control condition used a commercially available CO-LCL (Tymox®-CO) ​​with a final thymol concentration of 0.207%. CO-LCL is a control product made with thymol crystals (i.e., not oil-based), a solvent [propylene glycol methyl ether (PGME)], and a surfactant [sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS)].

[0167] As shown in Figure 5, all three nanoemulsions, KEM1, KEM2, and KEM3, The treatments demonstrated very high antibacterial efficacy during the spray test assay, generally comparable to the positive control. [Petricount Dry Antibacterial Test (PAMB)]

[0168] To further evaluate the antibacterial activity, each of the nanoemulsions, KEM1, KEM2, and KEM3, was subjected to a quantitative test called the Petri Count Dry Antibacterial Test (PAMB), which compares the effectiveness of nanoemulsions based on their ability to prevent bacterial colonization. 6 The positive control was again commercial CO-LCL, with a final thymol concentration of 0.207%.

[0169] As shown in FIG. 6, the CO-LCL positive control induced a log reduction score of 2.85, and all three KEM1, KEM2, and KEM3 formulations induced significantly higher antibacterial effects with log reduction scores of nearly 5.50, revealing superior antibacterial activity of KEM1, KEM2, and KEM3 nanoemulsions over the CO-LCL positive control. [Example 4] Antibacterial efficacy of antibacterial nanoemulsions containing other essential oil sources according to the present invention

[0170] To further demonstrate the versatility of the nanoemulsions of the present invention with respect to antibacterial essential oils, various other nanoemulsions were prepared based on the formulations in Table 7. [Table 7]

[0171] Exemplary sources of essential oils that can be used to prepare the nanoemulsion formulations of Table 7 are provided in Table 8. These essential oils may be, for example, rosemary oil, cinnamaldehyde, and / or citral, most of which have insecticidal and acaricidal properties and are used in industry, home or agriculture. [Table 8]

[0172] As an example of nanoemulsions that can be prepared using essential oils other than thyme oil and oregano oil, rosemary oil in Table 8 is used. Two nanoemulsions were prepared based on the formulation in Table 7 using rosemary-1 or rosemary-2 as the active ingredient, and each was diluted to 0.5% with water before use. The nanoemulsions thus prepared were subjected to acaricidal bioassays to evaluate their insecticidal and acaricidal properties. Ten second-instar adult mites were placed on leaf discs and treated separately with each nanoemulsion. In the positive control condition, commercial competitive controls (CC), Tetracurb®-B (TC-B) and Tetracurb®-E (TC-E) (from Keimin), were used. The negative control condition was not sprayed to ensure proper handling and arena setup. The bioassays were scored after 24 hours of incubation, and the number of dead and live mites was recorded to determine the mortality and thus the antibacterial activity of the nanoemulsions prepared with rosemary-1 or rosemary-2. The assay was repeated six times (N=60).

[0173] As shown in FIG. 7, nanoemulsions containing rosemary-1 and rosemary-2 both induced greater than the negative control condition and equal or greater than the positive control condition in terms of mortality of two spotted spider mites (TSSM), with the nanoemulsion containing rosemary-2 showing the highest TSSM mortality. [Example 5] Evaluation of the synergistic antibacterial effect of the antibacterial nanoemulsion according to the present invention

[0174] Antibacterial nanoemulsion formulations were also prepared by varying the components and their concentrations in the composition. The compositions of the various aqueous nanoemulsion formulations prepared and tested are shown in Table 9. The antibacterial effect of the aqueous nanoemulsion formulations of the present invention was tested in vitro according to the standards of the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus) were incubated at 37°C for 24 hours and then exposed to each formulation for 30 seconds. The next day, colonies were counted and the results were expressed on a logarithmic scale as the reduction in colony count compared to a positive control with known bactericidal effect. [Table 9]

[0175] Referring to FIG. 8, the synergistic effect of potassium sorbate (S) and Quillaja extract (Q) in combination on the antibacterial efficacy of the tested formulations is shown. Oleic acid (O) was used as a substitute control for potassium sorbate. As a result, both formulations containing only potassium sorbate or Quillaja extract [F(10S+0Q) and F(0S+10Q)], and formulations in which potassium sorbate was replaced by oleic acid [i.e., F(28O+10Q) and F(35O+10Q)] performed worse than the positive control D25b130 formulation (i.e., 23% w / w thymol crystals, 14% w / w isopropanol, 48% w / w SLS, 1.4% w / w citric acid, 13.6% w / w H2O). Surprisingly, the combination of increasing concentrations of potassium sorbate with Quillaja extract showed an improved antibacterial effect of approximately 0.5 log (approximately 3.2 times) compared to the positive control D25b130 formulation, and of more than 0.75 log (approximately 5.6 times) compared to formulations containing potassium sorbate or Quillaja extract alone, demonstrating the synergistic effect of the combination of these ingredients in the formulation of the present invention. [Example 6] Further evaluation of the synergistic antibacterial effect of the antibacterial nanoemulsions according to the invention

[0176] To further clarify the synergistic effect of the combination of Quillaja extract and potassium sorbate, antibacterial nanoemulsion formulations were prepared by varying the components and their concentrations in the composition. The compositions of the various aqueous nanoemulsion formulations prepared and tested are shown in Table 10. The antibacterial effect of the aqueous nanoemulsion formulations of the present invention was tested in vitro according to the standards of the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus) were cultured at 37°C for 24 hours and then exposed to each formulation for 30 seconds. The next day, the colonies were counted and the results were expressed on a logarithmic scale as the reduction in the number of colonies compared to a positive control with known bactericidal effect. [Table 10] [Table 11] [Table 12] [Table 13]

[0177] 9 to 11 and Tables 11 to 13, the results are shown in Tables 11 to 13. The synergistic effect of combining different concentrations of the two substances (provided in the ratio of 3% Quillaja + 1% Citric Acid + 96% H2O concentrate) on the antibacterial efficacy of the tested formulations has been shown. Oleate was used as a substitute control for potassium sorbate and as an additional ingredient to improve the stability of FS5 and FS6 formulations. As a result, the formulation without potassium sorbate (i.e., formulation FS4) or without Quillaja extract (i.e., formulation FS11) performed worse than any other formulation and served as a reference data for normalizing the results. The ratio of the sorbate to Quillaja extract ratio is shown in Tables 11 to 13.

[0178] Figures 9-11 show these ratios graphically, as well as the log reduction for each formulation compared to the FS4 formulation. Tables 11-13 show the fold reduction increase compared to the FS4 and FS11 formulations for the directly tested concentrated formulations and the 1 / 256 and 1 / 512 dilutions, respectively. Surprisingly, all concentrated formulations showed strong synergistic effects between potassium sorbate and Quillaja extract, as did all formulations diluted 1 / 256. Most formulations diluted 1 / 512 also showed synergistic effects. [Example 7] Use of the detached flower assay for floral infection against fire blight in apple

[0179] The purpose of this example is to test the potential of an antibacterial nanoemulsion containing thyme oil of the present invention against fire blight and to compare the results obtained with those obtained with the industry standard, streptomycin.

[0180] Fire blight, caused by Erwinia amylovora, is the most devastating disease of both apple and pear. In most cases, infection during flowering, via nectar, is of greatest concern. Control strategies usually aim to protect the flower with substances antagonistic to the bacterium, when temperature and humidity conditions during flowering are favorable for infection.

[0181] In many parts of the world, fungicides such as streptomycin are routinely sprayed during flowering for this purpose. However, growing concerns over the use of such compounds and the spread of resistance have led to efforts to find alternatives that are cost-effective and acceptable to a range of markets, including organic agriculture. The detached flower assay (Pusey 1997) has been shown to be an efficient method for screening potential preparations. The blossom test faithfully reproduces natural infections, and results to date have shown a strong correlation with field data (Kuntz and Haug 2006).

[0182] Refrigerated dormant 2-year-old potted apple trees (plant cultivar Gala) were forced to flower at room temperature in late March 2019. Fresh individual flowers were handpicked at flowering and placed in small vials containing 10% sucrose, ensuring that the pedicels were submerged. The vials were inserted into racks placed in small airtight boxes for culture at 25 °C. A thin layer of aqueous glycerol solution (33% w / w) in each box maintained constant humidity. Flowers were incubated with 10 mL of Erwinia amylovora in PBS containing 0.1% w / w Tween 20. 5The buds were individually inoculated directly with 10 μL of the CFU / mL suspension. Half of the flowers were inoculated with a streptomycin-resistant strain (153sm5) collected in Oregon, USA, and the other half with a local streptomycin-sensitive strain (435s). Both strains had proven to be highly aggressive in previous tests. Approximately 30 min after inoculation, 10 randomly selected individual flowers of each lineage, organized into blocks of 5, were flooded with 32 μL of each treatment. Treatments consisted of either the F25 VDH2 (1 / 200) control treatment (hereafter "Tymox® control") or the streptomycin 17 (0.6 g / L) standard control. Water and non-inoculated controls were also included (data not shown). After 72 h of incubation, all flowers were treated with a water suspension of S. scala (pyrimethanil, 40% w / w) at a rate of 3 mL / L (i.e., final concentration 0.3% v / v) to minimize fungal contamination. 7 days after inoculation A nonparametric scale was used to estimate disease severity (DS). DS was scored as follows: 0 = no necrosis; 1 = minimal necrosis; 2 = ovary partially necrotic; 3 = ovary severely necrotic; and 4 = necrosis extending to the pedicel. Severity scores excluding streptomycin-treated flowers were analyzed with cumulative link mixed models (clmm) in the “ord” package in R (Christensen 2015) with block as a random effect. For separation, streptomycin data were analyzed with the “bracl” function in the package “brglm2” under R using mean bias reduction (Cosmidis, Pagi, and Sartori 2019). To model treatment effects, interactions with formulation, concentration, and bacterial strain were considered. [result]

[0183] Figure 12 shows the raw data in a cumulative bar graph of disease severity. As expected, streptomycin strongly suppressed fire blight in flowers inoculated with the susceptible strain of the bacteria, but had no effect on the resistant strain. No disease was observed in the uninoculated controls (not shown). The TYMOX® control treatment reduced disease severity in streptomycin-susceptible plants (27.5% reduction) and surprisingly strongly reduced disease severity in streptomycin-resistant plants (52% reduction). These results indicate that TYMOX® control can be used to aid plant resistance to bacteria when antibiotic resistance is an issue for plant protection. [Example 8] Protection of pears and apples against fire blight with Tymox® control treatments

[0184] A composition of the present invention (Tymox® Control) was used in field trials on pears and apples as shown in Table 14 below. [Table 14] [Example 9] Tymox® Control treatments protect apple trees from fire blight.

[0185] A composition of the present invention (Tymox® Control) was used in field trials on pears and apples, as shown in Table 15 below. [Table 15]

[0186] This spray completely halted the fire blight attack, which was unexpected since Pink Lady apple trees are the most susceptible to fire blight. [Example 10] TYMOX® Control Treatments Protect Against Powdery Mildew on Grapes and Cherries

[0187] A composition of the present invention (Tymox® Control) was used in field trials against powdery mildew on cherries and grapes, as shown in Table 16 below. [Table 16]

[0188] On cherries, no mildew occurred after treatment and, unexpectedly, birds that normally feed on cherries were repelled by the application of TYMOX® Control. On grapes, mildew incidence was reduced, but not eliminated, by the application of other fungicides. pest Control is improved. [Example 11] Evaluation of the efficacy of Tymox® Control as a foliar spray on hemp against fungal plant diseases: Gray mold (Botrytis spp.) and powdery mildew (Reveille sp.) Materials and Methods

[0189] The experiment was conducted in a greenhouse as a randomized complete block design with six replicates / four plants per replicate. Data were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) and treatment means were separated at a 5% probability level (i.e., p=0.05). Plants were inoculated with either Botrytis spp. or Reveille sp. Treatments were observed and assessed for severity and incidence of Septoria (Septoria cannabis) and Powdery mildew (Reveille rataurica). Treatments were as follows: 1=no treatment; 2=standard commercial treatment (Greencure® in Greencure® solution containing 85% potassium bicarbonate); and (iii) Taimox® control treatment followed by 3 treatments / 30 days, 4 treatments / 30 days, 5 treatments / 30 days, and 7 treatments / 30 days. [result]

[0190] Reference is now made to FIG. 13, as shown therein the Taimox® control treatment completely inhibited disease incidence and disease severity in plants infected with Septoria (left) and powdery mildew (right). [Example 12] Tymox® control treatment significantly inhibits Botrytis on Stevia [Materials and Methods]:

[0191] The Botrytis inhibitory properties of the Taimox® control treatment were evaluated on stevia. The Taimox® control treatment was diluted 1 / 200 and sprayed on plants contaminated with Botrytis (i.e., at a rate of 0.5% v / v). One day after treatment, the effect of the Taimox® control against Botrytis was evaluated. [result]

[0192] The THYMOX® control treatment completely inhibits Botrytis on Stevia. As shown in Figure 14, most leaves are infected with Botrytis (i.e., pre-treatment condition on the left side of Figure 14), but 24 hours after treatment, the Botrytis-induced leaf damage is completely reversed (i.e., post-treatment condition on the right side). [Example 13] Tymox® Control is not phytotoxic to plants.

[0193] The phytotoxicity of the Tymox® control treatment was evaluated. One of the problems associated with the application of essential oil based formulations is the sensitivity of the plants to these oils in terms of phytotoxicity. In other words, the leaves of the plants may burn and turn yellow or orange due to the phytotoxicity of the essential oil formulation, which is undesirable for growers and farmers. Materials and Methods

[0194] The Tymox® control treatment was diluted 1 / 200 and sprayed (ie at a rate of 0.5% v / v) on different plant species to determine phytotoxicity. [result]

[0195] As shown in Figure 15, no phytotoxicity occurred when Arttimesia Silver Mound was treated with the Timox® control treatment (i.e., post-treatment, right side of Figure 15) compared to treated Arttimesia Silver Mound (i.e., pre-treatment, left side of Figure 15). In fact, the leaves of Arttimesia Silver Mound plants treated with the Timox® control treatment were healthier and greener compared to pre-treated Arttimesia Silver Mound leaves.

[0196] Similarly, as shown in Figure 16, the Timox® control treatment on Artimesia 'Powis Castle' (i.e., post-treatment on the right side of Figure 16) did not result in phytotoxicity compared to the treated Artimesia 'Powis Castle' (i.e., pre-treatment on the left side of Figure 16). In fact, the leaves of Artimesia 'Powis Castle' after the Timox® control treatment were healthier and greener than the leaves of the untreated Artimesia 'Powis Castle'. [Example 14] Preparations containing vitamin C

[0197] A formulation according to the invention may be a formulation that includes vitamin C (i.e. ascorbic acid or an ascorbate salt). An example of a formulation that includes vitamin C is shown in Table 17 below, in comparison to formulation F25 shown in Table 5 above. [Table 17]

[0198] Furthermore, to evaluate the antibacterial activity of these formulations, they were subjected to a quantitative test, the so-called Petri Count Dry Antibacterial Test (PAMB), which compares the effectiveness of a given nanoemulsion based on its ability to prevent bacterial colonization. 6The preparations were added to petri dishes inoculated with S. aureus and after 24 hours of incubation, the log reduction in colony numbers was counted (a larger log reduction indicates a stronger antibacterial activity).

[0199] Reference is now made to Figure 17, which shows a comparison of formulations of the present invention containing Vitamin C as detailed above in Table 17, compared to the base formulation. The results show that by substituting Vitamin C for the essential oil (in this case, thyme oil), the antibacterial activity of the formulation is maintained.

[0200] Although preferred embodiments have been described above and illustrated in the accompanying drawings, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that modifications may be made without departing from the present disclosure, and such modifications are considered as possible variations that fall within the scope of the present disclosure. [References]

[0201] Pusey, P.L. 1997. Crab apple flowers as a model for studies on the biological control of fire blight. Phytopathology. 87:1096-1102

[0202] Kunz, S., and Haug, P. 2006. Developing strategies for fire blight control in organic fruit production. In Ecofruit, Weinsberg / Germany: Fordergemeinschaft Okologischer Obstbau eV(FOKO), p.145-150.

[0203] Christensen, RHB. 2015. Regression models for ordinal-ordinal data.

[0204] Kosmidis, I., Pagui, E. C. K., and Sartori, N. 2019. Mean and Median Bias Reduction in Generalized Linear Models. arXiv e-prints. arXiv:1804.04085.

Claims

1. 1. An aqueous nanoemulsion formulation comprising: a) 0.05% to 55% by weight of an essential oil or an active ingredient thereof, the essential oil being thyme oil or rosemary oil, the active ingredient of thyme oil being thymol, carvacrol or a combination thereof, and the active ingredient of rosemary oil being paracymene; b) 0.04% to 65% by weight of a solvent, except when the solvent is water; c) 0.01% to 25% sorbate; d) 0.00025% to 0.37% by weight of saponin; e) sufficient water to make 100% by weight.

2. 2. The aqueous nanoemulsion formulation of claim 1, further comprising 0.0002% to 0.3% by weight of a pH adjuster.

3. The solvent may be 1,2-dichloroethane, 2-butanone, acetone, acetonitrile, benzene, carbon tetrachloride, chloroform, cyclohexane, hexane, pentane, tetrahydrofuran, 1,1-dichloroethane, 1,2-dichloroethane, 1-butanol, 1-heptanol, 1-hexanol, 1-octanol, 1-pentanol, 1-propanol, 2-aminoethanol, 2-butanol, 2-butanone, 2-pentanol, 2-pentanone, 2-propanol, 3-pentanol, 3-pentanone, acetic acid, acetone, acetonitrile, acetylacetone, aniline, anisole, benzene, benzonitrile, benzyl alcohol, butyl acetate, butyric acid, , carbon disulfide, carbon tetrachloride, chlorobenzene, chloroform, cyclohexane, cyclohexanol, cyclohexanone, dichloromethane, diethyl ether, diethylamine, diethylene glycol, diglyme, diisopropyl ether, dimethoxyethane, dimethylformamide, dimethyl phthalate, dimethyl sulfoxide, di-n-butyl phthalate, dioxane, ethanol, ether, ethyl acetate, ethyl acetoacetate, ethyl benzoate, ethylene glycol, glycerol, heptane, hexane, i-butanol, isopropanol, methanol, methyl acetate, methyl t-butyl ether, methylene chloride, methyl t-butyl ether, N,N-dimethyl The aqueous nanoemulsion formulation according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the solvent is at least one of ethylaniline, pentane, p-xylene, pyridine, t-butyl alcohol, tetrahydrofuran, toluene, trichloroethylene, heavy water, and xylene.

4. 4. The aqueous nanoemulsion formulation according to claim 1, wherein the solvent is at least two types of solvent.

5. 5. The aqueous nanoemulsion formulation of claim 4, wherein the solvent consists of isopropanol, glycerol, and butyl lactate.

6. 6. The aqueous nanoemulsion formulation of claim 1, wherein the sorbate is potassium sorbate, sodium sorbate, calcium sorbate, sorbic acid, or a combination thereof.

7. 7. The aqueous nanoemulsion formulation of claim 6, wherein the sorbate salt is potassium sorbate.

8. 8. The aqueous nanoemulsion formulation of claim 1, wherein the saponin is provided by a plant extract.

9. 9. The aqueous nanoemulsion formulation of claim 8, wherein the plant extract is Quillaja saponaria extract, Yucca schidigera extract, Horse Chestnut extract, Tea seed extract, Soybean extract, and combinations thereof.

10. 9. The aqueous nanoemulsion formulation of claim 8, wherein the plant extract is Quillaja saponaria extract.

11. 11. The aqueous nanoemulsion formulation of claim 10, wherein the aqueous nanoemulsion formulation comprises from 0.004 to 0.5% by weight of the Quillaja Saponaria extract.

12. The pH adjuster is selected from the group consisting of citric acid, lactic acid, hydrochloric acid, boric acid, acetic acid, sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide, sulfuric acid, calcium carbonate (CaCO ３ ), ammonium carbonate, ammonium bicarbonate, ammonium citrate, sodium citrate, magnesium carbonate, sodium carbonate, monosodium phosphate, disodium phosphate and / or trisodium phosphate, monopotassium phosphate, dipotassium phosphate and / or tripotassium phosphate, tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane (TRIS), amino acids and zwitterions, glycine, 2-amino-2-methyl-1,3-propanediol (AMPD), N-(1,1-dimethyl-2-hydroxyethyl)-3-amino-2-hydroxypropanesulfonic acid (AMPSO), N-glycylglycine (Gly-Gly), 4-(2-hydroxyethyl)piperazine-1-propanesulfonic acid (EPPS or HEPPS), 3-(cyclohexylamino)-1-propanesulfonic acid (CAPS ...

3. The aqueous nanoemulsion formulation of claim 2, wherein the active ingredient is at least one of N,N'-bis[2-hydroxyethyl]-2-aminoethanesulfonic acid (CAPSO), 2-(cyclohexylamino)ethanesulfonic acid (CHES), N,N-bis[2-hydroxyethyl]-2-aminoethanesulfonic acid (BES), (2-[2-hydroxy-1,1-bis(hydroxymethyl)ethylamino]ethanesulfonic acid (TES), 2-(N-morpholino)ethanesulfonic acid (MES), N-[tris(hydroxymethyl)methyl]glycine (tricine); N-tris(hydroxymethyl)methyl-3-aminopropanesulfonic acid (TAPS) and 3-N-morpholinopropanesulfonic acid (MOPS), piperazine-N,N'-bis[2-hydroxypropanesulfonic] acid (POPSO), and combinations thereof.

13. The aqueous nanoemulsion formulation according to claim 2 , wherein the pH adjuster is at least citric acid.

14. The aqueous nanoemulsion formulation according to any one of claims 1 to 13, further comprising vitamin C.

15. 15. The aqueous nanoemulsion formulation of claim 14, wherein the aqueous nanoemulsion formulation contains 0.002 to 5% by weight of vitamin C.

16. 14. An aqueous nanoemulsion formulation according to any one of claims 1 to 13, comprising: a) 0.05% to 55% by weight of said essential oil, or an active ingredient thereof; b) 0.005% to 7.5% by weight of isopropanol; c) 0.02% to 30% by weight of glycerol; d) 0.02% to 27% by weight of butyl lactate; e) 0.01% to 25% potassium sorbate. f) 0.0004% to 0.5% by weight of Quillaja Saponaria extract; g) 0.0002% to 0.3% by weight of citric acid; h) An aqueous nanoemulsion formulation containing sufficient water to make 100% by weight.

17. 17. The aqueous nanoemulsion formulation of claim 1, wherein the aqueous nanoemulsion formulation does not contain an additional surfactant.

18. 17. The aqueous nanoemulsion formulation of claim 1, further comprising a surfactant or a further emulsifier.

19. 17. The aqueous nanoemulsion formulation of any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the aqueous nanoemulsion formulation does not contain an added bactericide, pesticide or disinfectant.

20. 20. An aqueous nanoemulsion formulation according to any one of claims 1 to 19 for use as a bactericide formulation.

21. An aqueous nanoemulsion formulation according to any one of claims 1 to 19 for use as a pest control agent for pest or other biological control.

22. 20. An aqueous nanoemulsion formulation according to any one of claims 1 to 19 for use in regulating seed or plant growth.

23. 17. The aqueous nanoemulsion formulation of claim 16, further comprising an additional pesticide, a fertilizer, an antifoam agent, a plant growth regulator, or a combination thereof.

24. 24. The aqueous nanoemulsion formulation of claim 23, wherein the additional pest control agent is selected from an algicide, an antifoulant, a disinfectant, a fungicide, a fumigant, a herbicide, a molluscicide, an ovicide, a rodenticide, an insect growth regulator, a bactericide, a virucide, an insect repellent, an arthropod repellent, a nematicide, an insecticide, an acaricide, a herbicide, and a plant growth regulator.

25. The fertilizer is an inorganic fertilizer, a nitrogen fertilizer, a potassium fertilizer, a phosphorus fertilizer, an organic fertilizer, a manure fertilizer, a compost, a phosphate rock, a bone meal, an alfalfa, a wood chip, a langbeinite, a cover crop, potassium sulfate, a rock meal, an ash, a blood meal, a fish meal, a fish emulsion, an algae, a chitosan, and 24. The aqueous nanoemulsion formulation of claim 23, selected from the molasses fertilizer group.

26. 24. The aqueous nanoemulsion formulation of claim 23, wherein the antifoaming agent is selected from mineral oils, vegetable oils, paraffin waxes, ester waxes, silica, fatty alcohols, silicones, polyethylene glycols, polypropylene glycols, copolymers, and alkyl polyacrylates.

27. 24. The composition according to any one of claims 23, wherein the plant growth regulator is selected from carbamates, chlorinated hydrocarbons, cyclohexadiones, organic acids, ancymidol, ethephon, gibberellic acid, gibberellins and benazuladenin, maleic hydrazide, naphthalene acetic acid (NAA), naphthalene acetamide, paclobutrazol, and N-acetylaspartic acid.

28. 25. A method of using the aqueous nanoemulsion formulation of any one of claims 1 to 24, comprising the step of diluting the aqueous nanoemulsion formulation with water.

29. 22. The aqueous nanoemulsion formulation of claim 21, wherein the pest or other organism is selected from an insect, a nematode, a fungus, a bacterium, a larva, a plant, an animal, a virus, a parasite, a gastropod, an arthropod, a snail, a slug, an algae, or a combination thereof.

30. 22. The aqueous nanoemulsion formulation of claim 21, wherein the pests or other organisms are fire blight, powdery mildew, septoria, and botrytis.

31. 30. The aqueous nanoemulsion formulation of claim 29, wherein the plant is a weed, the arthropod is a mite, or the insect is a moth.

32. 23. The aqueous nanoemulsion formulation of claim 22, wherein the modulation of growth comprises at least one of an increase in the number of fruits, vegetables, bulbs or tubers of the plant, an increase in the size of the fruits, vegetables, bulbs or tubers of the plant, and an increase in the number of healthy plants.

33. 23. The aqueous nanoemulsion formulation of claim 22, wherein the plant is selected from banana (plant), apple tree, pear tree, potato (plant), rice (plant), coffee (plant), citrus tree, onion, ginseng, soybean, weeds, tomato (plant).

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