Fungicide derived from pistacia atlantica

Abstract

A fungicidal composition according to present disclosure comprises an essential oil derived from Pistacia atlantica including alpha-pinene, at least one surfactant, and at least one fatty acid. The composition is effective in rupturing fungal cell walls and demonstrates efficacy against multiple fungi. The composition may be formulated as an emulsion suitable for spray application. A method of preparation, involving extraction of the essential oil and mixing with surfactants and fatty acids, is also disclosed. The disclosed fungicidal composition eliminates the requirement for a preharvest interval (PHI).

Description

DescriptionTitle of Disclosure: Fungicide Derived from PistaciaAtlanticaTechnical Field

[0001] The present disclosure pertains to the technical field of natural fungicides. More specifically, the disclosure discloses a non-toxic, lacks of preharvest interval (PHI) fungicidal composition derived from the essential oil of Pistacia atlantica. The formulation comprises the essential oil, a surfactant, and a fatty acid, providing an environmentally friendly solution for the control of fungal pathogens.

[0002] The present disclosure relates to the field of natural fungicides. Specifically, it discloses a fungicidal composition that is non-toxic and free of preharvest interval (PHI) requirements, derived from the essential oil of Pistacia atlantica.

[0003] This formulation includes an essential oil, a surfactant, and a fatty acid, offering an environmentally friendly solution for controlling fungal pathogens.Background Art

[0004] This section introduces aspects that may help facilitate a better understanding of the disclosure. Accordingly, these statements are to be read in this light and are not to be understood as admissions about what is or is not prior art.

[0005] In agricultural production, addressing pests and diseases remains a critical challenge. Fungicides are essential for maintaining the stability and quality of agricultural products. Traditionally, chemical fungicides have been the primary means of managing plant diseases. However, the reliance on chemical fungicides raises several concerns, including environmental contamination, adverse health effects, and the development of resistance among pathogenic organisms.

[0006] Given these issues, there is a pressing need for alternative pest control strategies that are both safe and environmentally sustainable. One promising approach involves the use of natural fungicides. Natural fungicides are derived from sources such as plants, bacteria, and certain minerals. These naturally sourced fungicides offer an eco-friendly solution to pest control, mitigating the negative impacts on the environment and human health while addressing the problem of pathogen resistance.

[0007] The present disclosure is directed towards the development and utilization of natural fungicides as viable alternatives to chemical fungicides. By leveraging natural materials, this disclosure aims to provide an effective and sustainable method for managing plant diseases. This approach ensures agricultural productivity and maintains the quality of agricultural products without the drawbacks associated with traditional chemical treatments.Summary of Invention

[0008] The following provides a simplified summary of various aspects of the present disclosure to offer a basic understanding of such aspects. This summary is not an extensive overview of the disclosure and is not intended to identify key or critical elements of the disclosure, nor delineate any scope of the particular embodiments of the disclosure or any scope of the claims. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts of the disclosure in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that follows.

[0009] In one general aspect, the present disclosure may relate to a composition formulated for effective and sustainable control of plant diseases. The composition may include an essential oil derived from Pistacia atlantica, at least one surfactant, and at least one fatty acid. This fungicide may be designed to be non-toxic and free from preharvest interval requirements, thereby reducing environmental impact and health risks.

[0010] In one embodiment, the essential oil from Pistacia atlantica may contain active compounds such as alpha-pinene, camphene, sabinene, beta-pinene, and d- limonene, which may contribute to the fungicidal activity. Alpha-pinene, in particular, could play a key role by disrupting fungal cell walls and membranes.

[0011] In another embodiment, the composition may incorporate surfactants such as N-dimethyltrimethylenediamine and 3,5-dimethyl-1 -octylpyrazole, which may aid in emulsifying the essential oil and enhancing its delivery. Fatty acids, including linoleic and oleic acid, could further improve the stability and efficacy of the fungicide.

[0012] In one aspect, the composition disclosed herein may exhibit activity against fungi such as Botrytis cinerea, Colletotrichum capsici, Pyricularia oryzae, and Erysiphe necator.

[0013] In one exemplary embodiment, the essential oil concentration may range from about 0.1 % to 99% by weight, while the surfactants and fatty acids may be included in lower concentrations.

[0014] In one exemplary embodiment, the composition may form an emulsion, intended for application as a spray, offering easy use and wide coverage on plant surfaces. This disclosure may provide a natural and eco-friendly alternative to conventional chemical fungicides for agricultural pest control.

[0015] In another general aspect, the present disclosure provides a method for preparing the fungicide composition where the essential oil may be extracted from Pistacia atlantica using a hydrodistillation method. In one embodiment, the preparation of the natural fungicide may begin with the collection and sorting of raw materials, including gum and plant parts of Pistacia atlantica, which are then crushed and dried. The dried plant materials may be soaked in tanks before being processed through a distillation tower for essential oil extraction. During the hydrodistillation process, steam may be used to release the essential oils from the plant material.Technical Problem

[0016] The technical problem addressed by the present disclosure is the preharvest interval (PHI) required for traditional fungicides, which mandates a waiting period between the application of the fungicide and the harvesting of crops. This interval can be restrictive and inconvenient for agricultural operations, potentially leading to delays and reduced productivity. Additionally, conventional fungicides often pose safety concerns due to their chemical nature and may adversely affect the shelf life and stability of agricultural products.Solution to Problem

[0017] The present disclosure solves the problem of preharvest interval (PHI) constraints associated with traditional fungicides, which can limit agricultural efficiency and productivity due to required waiting periods between application and harvest. Additionally, conventional chemical fungicides often pose safety risks and may negatively affect the shelf life and stability of agricultural products.

[0018] In one exemplary embodiment, the present disclosure provides a natural fungicide derived from the essential oil of Pistacia atlantica that eliminates the needfor a preharvest interval (PHI). This non-toxic fungicide not only addresses the issue of preharvest intervals but also improves the shelf life and stability of agricultural products both before and after harvesting. The formulation, which includes essential oil, surfactants, and fatty acids, offers a safer, environmentally friendly alternative to traditional fungicides, facilitating more efficient agricultural practices and ensuring enhanced product quality.Advantageous Effects of Invention

[0019] The present disclosure provides significant improvements over traditional fungicides by eliminating the need for a preharvest interval (PHI). This feature enhances agricultural efficiency and productivity, allowing for more flexible application timing and avoiding delays in harvesting.

[0020] Additionally, the use of a natural fungicide derived from Pistacia atlantica ensures that the formulation is non-toxic and environmentally friendly. This reduces health risks for agricultural workers and consumers while minimizing the environmental impact associated with chemical fungicides.

[0021] Moreover, the present disclosure enhances the shelf life and stability of agricultural products both before and after harvesting. This improvement in product quality and extended usability benefits both producers and consumers. The formulation, incorporating essential oil, surfactants, and fatty acids, provides effective control of fungal pathogens, offering a more sustainable and safe solution for fungal disease management in agriculture.Brief Description of Drawings

[0022] New features of the present disclosure are set forth with characteristic features in the attached claims. A better understanding of the features and advantages of the present disclosure will be available through reference to the following detailed description, which sets forth representative embodiments in which the principles of the present disclosure are utilized, and to the accompanying drawings.

[0023] [Fig. 1] illustrates a flowchart of a method for preparing the fungicide composition, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0024] [Fig. 2] illustrates a one-way ANOVA analysis of the treatment efficacy of the fungicide composition on different fungi, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0025] [Fig. 3] illustrates the effect of the fungicide composition on the growth rate of various fungi, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0026] [Fig. 4] demonstrates the control of fungal growth post-harvest using the fungicide composition, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0027] [Fig. 5] illustrates the post-harvest percentage of fungal growth, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0028] [Fig. 6] compares the characteristics of the formed fungicide composition with other fungicides, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0029] [Fig. 7] demonstrates the effectiveness of fungicides at various concentrations, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0030] [Fig. 8] illustrates the percentage of blossom blight using different fungicides, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0031] [Fig. 9] illustrate the test results for residual toxins in peppers treated with the fungicide composition, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0032] [Fig. 10] illustrate the test results for residual toxins in strawberries treated with the fungicide composition, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0033] [Fig. 11] illustrate the test results for residual toxins in rice treated with the fungicide composition, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0034] [Fig. 12] illustrate the test results for residual toxins in grapes treated with the fungicide composition, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0035] [Fig. 13] illustrate the test results for residual toxins in tomatoes treated with the fungicide composition, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.Description of Embodiments

[0036] In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the relevant teachings. However, it should be apparent that the present teachings may be practiced without such specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, components, and circuitry have been described in a manner that will be readily understood by those skilled in the art, to avoid unnecessarily obscuring aspects of the present teachings.

[0037] This detailed description is intended to enable a person skilled in the art to make and use the methods and devices disclosed in exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. For explanatory purposes, specific nomenclature is used to provide a thorough understanding of the present disclosure. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that these specific details are not required to practice the disclosed exemplary embodiments. Descriptions of specific exemplary embodiments are provided as representative examples. Various modifications to the exemplary embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be applied to other embodiments and applications without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The present disclosure is not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and features disclosed herein.

[0038] In describing and claiming the present disclosure, the following terminology will be used in accordance with the definitions set forth below. Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. In the event of a conflict, the present document, including definitions, will control. As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. However, other embodiments may also be preferred under the same or other circumstances. Furthermore, the recitation of one or more preferred embodiments does not implythat other embodiments are not useful and is not intended to exclude other embodiments from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0039] As used herein, the terms "natural fungicide", "formed composition “, “the formed green composition”, and "fungicide composition" may be used interchangeably and refer to the formed composition in this disclosure.

[0040] As used herein, the terms "incorporating," and "adding" may be used interchangeably and refer to adding to material together in this disclosure.

[0041] As used herein, the term "disease control" refers to the management and prevention of plant diseases. The control effect encompasses all deviations from normal growth, including the elimination, delay, or reduction of fungal diseases.

[0042] The following detailed description provides a comprehensive overview of the natural fungicide. The present disclosure may relate to a composition comprising an essential oil that may be extracted from Pistacia atlantica subcp. Kurdica, at least one surfactant, and at least one fatty acid. This composition may serve as an effective solution for managing fungal pathogens, particularly in agricultural applications, where there is a demand for non-toxic, free-from preharvest interval requirements, and environmentally friendly treatments.

[0043] In one embodiment, the composition may include alpha-pinene, which is found in the essential oil and may be extracted from Pistacia atlantica subcp. Kurdica. Alpha-pinene may contribute to the fungicidal properties of the composition by disrupting the cell membranes of fungal organisms. The composition may also include at least one surfactant that could aid in dispersing the essential oil throughout the formulation, ensuring even application and increasing the efficacy of the active components.

[0044] In another embodiment, the present disclosure provides a method for preparing the fungicide composition where the essential oil may be extracted from Pistacia atlantica subcp. Kurdica using a hydrodistillation method.

[0045] FIG. 1 presents an overview of the method for preparing natural fungicide using the essential oil of Pistacia atlantica, fatty acid, and surfactant serving as a reference for the subsequent detailed description. The exemplary method outlined in FIG. 1 entails essential steps including extracting the essential oil from Pistacia atlantica by hydrodistillation method 110, filtering the extracted essential oil 120,mixing the extracted essential oil with one or more surfactants to make a mixture 130, and incorporation one or more fatty acids to the mixture 140.

[0046] The comprehensive method outlined in FIG.1 serves as a foundational guide for preparing natural fungicides following one or more embodiments of the disclosed disclosure. It provides a comprehensive overview of the key steps involved in the process, starting from extracting the essential oil from Pistacia atlantica to the final formed composition. Subsequent sections will provide a more detailed explanation of each step to ensure comprehensive understanding.

[0047] The process of preparing the natural fungicide, as depicted in FIG. 1 , initiates with step 110. In this step, the essential oil is extracted from Pistacia atlantica by hydrodistillation method. The preparation of the natural fungicide begins with the collection and sorting of raw materials, including gum and plants of pistacia atlantica, which are then crushed and dried. The dried plant materials are soaked in tanks before being processed through a distillation tower for essential oil extraction during hydrodistillation, steam is employed to release essential oils from the plant material.

[0048] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, to preserve the quality of the essential oil, the distillation is conducted at temperatures below 100°C to prevent hydrolysis and degradation of the oil components. The essential oil, combined with steam, is collected in a cooling section where it is separated from the water based on their respective densities.

[0049] Following extraction, the essential oils undergo a purification and filtering process to remove any impurities 120.

[0050] In specific embodiment, the purified essential oils are stored in tanks and are then mixed with additional compounds according to a product formulation requirement state in steps 130 and 140. This formulation may involve the precise addition of surfactants 130 and fatty acids 140 to the essential oils, followed by thorough mixing to ensure a clear and homogeneous liquid. The resulting natural fungicide is thus ready for use, providing an effective, non-toxic, and environmentally friendly solution for fungal control in various agricultural applications.

[0051] In one exemplary embodiment, the fatty acid employed in the natural fungicide formulation may include, but are not limited to, linoleic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid, and oleic acid. Additionally, the surfactants may encompass N- Dimethyltrimethylenediamine, Bicyclo[3.1 ,1 ]hept-2-en-4-ol, 2,6,6-trimethyl-acetate, and 3,5-Dimethyl-1 -octylpyrazole, among others.

[0052] The composition disclosed in this disclosure demonstrates significant efficacy in controlling a broad range of diseases affecting various crops. Specifically, the formulation is effective against Rhizoctonia solani, Magnaporthe grisea, and Gibberella fujikuroi in rice; Erysiphe graminis and Fusarium graminearum in wheat; Monilinia mali and Podosphaera leucotricha in apples; Monilinia fructicola and Cladosporium carpophilum in peaches; Uncinula necator and Plasmopara viticola in grapes; Cladosporium fulvum and Phytophthora infestans in tomatoes; and Sphaerotheca humuli and Glomerella cingulata in strawberries, without limitation to these examples. This formulation provides a comprehensive approach to managing these plant diseases, thereby promoting healthier crops and potentially enhancing both yield and quality.

[0053] In one particular exemplary embodiment, the composition disclosed in this disclosure exhibits optimal fungicidal effectiveness against Botrytis cinerea, Colletotrichum capsici, Pyricularia oryzae, Aspergillus flavus, and Erysiphe necator.

[0054] Subsequent experiments were conducted to analyze the effectiveness of the formed natural fungicide on a variety of fungi including Botrytis cinerea, Colletotrichum capsici, Pyricularia oryzae, Aspergillus flavus, and Erysiphe necator.

[0055] The present disclosure offers a significant advancement over conventional fungicides by eliminating the requirement for a preharvest interval (PHI), thereby enabling immediate application of the composition without the need for waiting periods before harvesting. This feature greatly enhances agricultural efficiency, providing greater flexibility in treatment scheduling and preventing harvest delays.

[0056] In one exemplary embodiment, the formed composition may be characterized as non-toxic, as confirmed by a series of tests conducted in accordance with EPA guidelines for acute oral, dermal, inhalation, and ocular toxicity. The results revealed that the composition has an LD50 greater than 5000 mg / kg in all categories, including oral, dermal, and respiratory toxicity in rats, as well as eyeand skin irritation tests in rabbits. The composition did not cause severe toxicity, irritation, or sensitivity, ensuring its safety for users during agricultural application, even with direct exposure.

[0057] The cumulative evidence from these studies demonstrates that the formed fungicide composition does not cause acute symptoms, irritation, or significant health risks, such as mortality or reduced life expectancy, across all tested exposure routes. This comprehensive safety assessment confirms the product's suitability for agricultural use while safeguarding user health and safety.

[0058] In one exemplary embodiment, the disclosed disclosure is formulated as a 60% emulsifiable concentrate (EC) emulsion, which maintains stability at both 25°C and elevated temperatures. The emulsion has a viscosity within the range of 0.90- 0.94 mPa s, a specific weight between 0.91 and 0.95 N / m2, and a pH value between 4.0 and 5.0. The product is characterized by a flash point ranging from 278°F to 288°F, a white color with an aromatic odor, a melting point in the range of 38.3°C to 39.3°C, and a boiling point between 116.5°C and 118.5°C. The formulation further comprises particles with a size of less than 0.22 pm, a vapor pressure ranging from 16 mmHg to 18 mmHg, and a density between 0.921 g / ml and 0.931 g / ml. Additionally, the formulation is soluble in water.

[0059] FIG. 2 presents a one-way AN OVA analysis of the treatment effects of the formed composition for Botrytis cinerea 230, Colletotrichum capsici 220, Pyricularia oryzae 250, Aspergillus flavus 240, and Erysiphe necator 210.

[0060] In one exemplary embodiment, a one-way ANOVA analysis, as illustrated in FIG. 2, demonstrates a significant reduction in the growth rate of fungi treated with the formed composition. The data specifically indicates that the composition is most effective against Botrytis cinerea.

[0061] FIG. 3 illustrates the impact of the formed composition on the growth rates of Botrytis cinerea 330, Colletotrichum capsici 330, Pyricularia oryzae 350, Aspergillus flavus 340, and Erysiphe necator 310 at varying concentrations. In specific exemplary embodiment, FIG. 3 demonstrates that increasing the concentration of the formed composition leads to a decrease in fungal growth rates.

[0062] FIG.4 demonstrates the control of fungal growth post-harvest of Botrytis cinerea 430, Colletotrichum capsica 420, Pyricularia oryzae 450, Aspergillus flavus 440,and Erysiphe necator 410, in one or more exemplorary embodiment of the present disclosure. In specific exemplary embodiment, FIG. 4 shows a reduction in decay observed 10 days after harvesting when using the formed composition.

[0063] FIG. 5 illustrates the percentage of fungal growth on day 7 and day 10 for Botrytis cinerea 530, Colletotrichum capsici 520, Pyricularia oryzae 550, Aspergillus flavus 540, and Erysiphe necator 510, treated with the formed composition at varying concentrations. The data demonstrate the significant inhibitory effect of the composition on fungal growth over time.

[0064] In one exemplary embodiment, FIG. 4 and FIG. 5 collectively demonstrate the effectiveness of the formed composition in controlling fungal growth and extending the shelf life of harvested products FIG. 4 shows the reduction in post-harvest decay over 10 days, while FIG. 5 highlights the suppression of fungal growth at specific intervals, supporting the composition's role in preserving product quality.

[0065] FIG. 6 provides a comparative analysis of four fungicides, including the formed composition, Serenade, CeraQuint, Signum, and a control. In one exemplary embodiment, Serenade is a biological fungicide, CeraQuint is a mineral fungicide, and Signum is a chemical fungicide. The formed composition, is characterized as a green and environmentally friendly fungicide, demonstrating comparable or superior efficacy in fungal control without the adverse environmental impact associated with chemical fungicides. In one specific embodiment, to evaluate the fungicidal efficacy of the synthesized product, strawberries as a strategic and sensitive fruit, were selected for testing. The fungus Botrytis cinerea, known for its resistance, was used as the target pathogen. This approach allowed for a comprehensive comparison of the new fungicide's effectiveness against existing fungicides under real-world conditions, demonstrating its potential for practical agricultural applications.

[0066] FIG. 7 illustrates the effectiveness of various fungicides, including the formed composition, at different concentrations, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0067] The data presented in FIG. 7 highlight the significant fungicidal activity of the formed composition relative to other formulations, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0068] In one exemplary embodiment, the effectiveness of the formed fungicide composition was compared with conventional fungicides, particularly focusing on strawberries infected with Botrytis cinerea. This comparison included Signum, a well-known chemical fungicide. The results demonstrated that the new composition provided high efficiency in controlling the fungal infection, showcasing its potential as a highly effective and natural alternative for managing fungal diseases in sensitive crops like strawberries.

[0069] FIG. 8 summarizes the comparative effectiveness of various treatments on blossom blight percentage across four evaluations. These treatments include the formed composition, as well as Serenade, CeraQuint, and Signum, representing biological, mineral, and chemical fungicides, respectively.

[0070] The results presented in FIG. 8 demonstrate that the formed fungicide composition in the present disclosure prevents blossom blight by 92.3%. This is comparable to the chemical fungicide Signum, which prevents blossom blight by 94.5%. These promising results indicate that the formed fungicide composition is nearly as effective as the established chemical fungicides while providing a natural alternative.

[0071] In one embodiment, the formed composition is free from preharvest interval requirements, as demonstrated by the analyses conducted using GC-MS and LC- MS, as shown in Figs. 9-13. This advantage underscores the composition's safety and suitability for agricultural applications, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0072] FIG. 9 illustrates the GC-MS 910 and LC-MS 920 analysis performed on pepper samples. Neither GC-MS and LC-MS analyses detected any residues of the formed composition in any of the pepper samples, indicating that the composition does not leave harmful residues.

[0073] FIG. 10 presents the results from the LC-MS analysis of strawberries treated with the formed fungicide composition. No detectable residues were found in the strawberries, and residue levels were below the Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs), ensuring the safety and regulatory compliance of the treated strawberries.

[0074] FIG. 11 shows the GC-MS analysis of 10 rice samples, revealing no detectable residues of the formed composition, with concentrations at 0.00 ppm. No residueswere found above the limit of quantitation (LOQ) of 0.2 ppb, confirming the composition’s compliance with residue regulations.

[0075] FIG. 12 displays the GC-MS analysis of 10 grape samples Analytical testing confirmed that the fungicide composition residues were undetectable, with measurements yielding a method detection limit (MDL) of 0.05 ppb and a limit of quantitation (LOQ) of 0.2 ppb. The residue levels were significantly lower than the maximum residue level (MRL) of 0.05 ppm established by regulatory authorities. These results demonstrate that the treated grapes meet safety standards and are free from detectable fungicide residues, ensuring their suitability for consumption

[0076] FIG. 13 demonstrates that the tomato samples contained no detectable residues of the formed fungicide composition. The concentration found in the tomatoes was significantly below the MRL of 0.5 ppm set by regulatory authorities, confirming that the tomatoes are safe for consumption and comply with established safety standards.Examples

[0077] In one exemplary embodiment, the composition may contain the essential oil of Pistacia atlantica or a derivative thereof, present in a concentration ranging from 0.1 % to 99% by weight. Specific concentrations within this range may include, but are not limited to, the following: 0.2%, 0.25%, 0.5%, 0.6%, 0.7%, 0.8%, 1 %, 2%, 5%, 7.5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 98%, or 99% by weight. Furthermore, the composition may optionally incorporate one or more surfactants and fatty acids to enhance its performance and efficacy.

[0078] In a specific embodiment, the composition of the present disclosure comprise a preferred combination of the following: Alpha-Pinene 60%, Camphene 2%, Sabinene 0.8%, Beta-Pinene 6%, Beta-Myrcene 1 %, Cymene 0.8%, dl-Limonene 1 .5%, Terpinolene 2%, Alph-Terpineol 0.5%, Bornyl acetate 0.3% , Myrtenol 0.2%, d-Verbenol 0.6%, cis-linalool oxide 0.3%, Camphene 0.02%, N- Dimethyltrimethylenediamine 0.1 %, alpha-phellandrene 0.11 %, 1 ,8-Cineole 0.2%, cymol 0.02%, Gamma-Terpinen 0.13 %, para-Cresol 0.046%, Exo-Fenchol 0.059%, trans-Verbenol 0.2%, Cis-Verbenol 0.12%, 3,5-Dimethyl-1 -octylpyrazole 0.28%, 4-Terpinenol 0.52%, para-Cymen-8- 01 , 0.27%, 1 -Verbenone 0.18%,trans-Carvol 0.05%, Bicyclo(3.1.1 )hept-2-en-4-o1 ,2,6,6-trimethyl-acetate 0.16%, trans-Sobrerol 0.35% , Diisooctyl phthalate 0.04%, linoleic acid 0.13%, Oleic acid 0.1 %, Palmitic acid 0.1 %, Stearic acid 0.1 %.

[0079] In specific embodiments, the methods for utilizing these compounds involve diluting them with an appropriate carrier, such as water, to prepare a ready-to-use spray for foliar application. This approach facilitates effective delivery and ensures optimal dispersal of the composition on plant surfaces.

[0080] This disclosure further encompasses methods for protecting agricultural products, including industrially relevant items such as seeds and fruits, by applying an effective amount of the compounds described herein to the respective products.

[0081] In another embodiment, the application of these compounds is intended to enhance the shelf life of the products following garden and agricultural harvests.

[0082] The specialized formulation of this product has resulted in a distinctive solution with unique attributes that may serve as a replacement for harmful chemical pesticides. By establishing a contact mechanism and eliminating the limitations of traditional shelf life, this product generates healthy agricultural outputs that retain their natural flavor while being free from chemical toxins. Furthermore, all key components incorporated into the compositions of this disclosure have been developed using the EC60 formulation.Industrial Applicability

[0083] The present disclosure pertains to a natural fungicide derived from the essential oil of Pistacia atlantica, offering significant industrial applicability in agriculture, horticulture, and food storage. This fungicide effectively controls fungal pathogens like Botrytis cinerea, Colletotrichum capsici, Pyricularia oryzae, Aspergillus flavus, and Erysiphe necator, ensuring crop protection without harming beneficial insects or soil microbiota. Its non-toxic nature makes it ideal for organic farming, meeting stringent certification requirements and providing a chemical-free solution for maintaining crop health. Additionally, it extends the shelf life of harvested produce by preventing fungal spoilage, ensuring treated produce remains safe for consumption due to the absence of preharvest interval requirements.

[0084] Beyond its agricultural benefits, this fungicide offers substantial environmental and health advantages. Its non-toxic, biodegradable nature reduces the risk of adverse health effects for agricultural workers and consumers, and minimizes ecological disruption. As a biodegradable product, it does not accumulate in the environment, mitigating long-term contamination risks. Furthermore, its compatibility with Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies enhances its utility, allowing it to work synergistically with other control methods and reducing reliance on synthetic fungicides. This disclosure represents a sustainable, effective alternative to conventional fungicides, aligning with the increasing demand for environmentally friendly agricultural practices.

Claims

AMENDED CLAIMS received by the International Bureau on June 1st, 2025 (01.06.2025)

1. A fungicidal composition comprising:(a) an essential oil extracted from the oleoresin of Pistacia atlantica subsp. kurdica, wherein the essential oil comprises at least 60% alpha-pinene by weight;(b) at least one surfactant selected from the group consisting of N- dimethyltrimethylenediamine and 3,5-dimethyl-l-octylpyrazole;(c) at least one fatty acid selected from the group consisting of linoleic acid and oleic acid; wherein the composition forms a stable oil-in-water emulsion suitable for agricultural spraying, demonstrates fungicidal activity against at least Botrytis cinerea, Colletotrichum capsici, Pyricularia oryzae, Aspergillus flavus, and Erysiphe necator, and is non-toxic and free from preharvest interval (PHI) requirements.

2. The fungicidal composition of Claim 1, wherein the essential oil is present at a concentration of 5% to 60% by weight.

3. The composition of Claim 1, wherein the surfactant is present in an amount less than 1% by weight, and the fatty acid is present in an amount less than 0.5% by weight.

4. The fungicidal composition of Claim 1, wherein the emulsion has a droplet size of less than 0.22 pm, a pH between 4.0-5.0, and is stable at both 25°C and elevated temperatures.

5. The fungicidal composition of Claim 1, wherein the essential oil includes additional components selected from: camphene, beta-pinene, sabinene, limonene, terpinolene, alpha-terpineol, and cis-linalool oxide.

6. The fungicidal composition of Claim 1, wherein the fungicidal activity is achieved through disruption of fungal cell walls and membranes, primarily attributed to alpha-pinene.

7. A method for preparing a natural fungicidal composition, the method comprising:(a) extracting essential oil from the oleoresin of Pistacia atlantica subsp. kurdica by hydrodistillation, wherein the extracted essential oil comprises at least 60% alpha-pinene by weight;(b) filtering and purifying the extracted essential oil to remove particulate and aqueous impurities;(c) mixing the purified essential oil with at least one surfactant selected from the group consisting of N-dimethyltrimethylenediamine and 3,5-dimethyl-l- octylpyrazole to form a homogenous phase;(d) adding at least one fatty acid selected from the group consisting of linoleic acid and oleic acid to the mixture to form an emulsifiable concentrate;(e) optionally diluting the concentrate with water to form a stable oil-in-water emulsion suitable for agricultural spraying; wherein the resulting emulsion is non-toxic, exhibits fungicidal activity against at least Botrytis cinerea and Erysiphe necator, and is free from preharvest interval (PHI) limitations.

8. The method of Claim 1, wherein step (a) comprises performing hydro-distillation at a temperature below 100°C to preserve thermally sensitive essential oil components.

9. The method of Claim 1, wherein the essential oil extracted in step (a) comprises between 80% and 95% alpha-pinene by weight.

10. The method of Claim 1, wherein the surfactant in step (c) is N- dimethyltrimethylenediamine, added at a concentration of 0.1% to 1% by weight relative to the essential oil.

11. The method of Claim 1, wherein the fatty acid in step (d) is linoleic acid, added after surfactant dispersion and stirred for at least 15 minutes to form a uniform emulsifiable concentrate.

12. The method of Claim 1, wherein the emulsion formed in step (e) exhibits a droplet size of less than 0.22 pm, a viscosity of 0.90-0.94 mPa-s, and a pH between 4.0 and 5.0.

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