Hyperpigmentation is a skin imperfection consisting of dark spots of varying size, caused by an overproduction of melanin, the skin pigment also responsible for tanning.

According to data from an Ipsos market research study, skin hyperpigmentation affects more than 54 percent of women between 20 and 60 years of age and, particularly on the face, is perceived as the third most common aesthetic nuisance, after loss of tone on the body and face.

Hyperpigmentation: the causes

First of all, it is important to know the causes of hyperpigmentation in order to adopt the best strategies for dealing with this condition.

Exposure to sunlight is generally the main cause of hyperpigmentation. Melanocytes produce melanin to protect the skin from UV rays, but in some cases certain types of melanocytes produce more melanin than others, leading to the appearance of darker patches. While their appearance can be a source of discomfort, hyperpigmentation due to sun exposure is not considered a pathological condition and tends to recede with less exposure. For this reason, the problem is more noticeable in the summer months when people habitually leave their skin more uncovered.

Also physiological is hyperpigmentation due to ageing, a condition in which there is an uneven loss of melanin-producing cells in the skin and an increase in production by those that remain. Hence the appearance of dark spots at any time of year and not necessarily associated with sun exposure.

Freckles are also a form of hyperpigmentation, very common in fair-skinned people and therefore linked to genetic factors; they are normally caused by exposure to sunlight and, more rarely, by pathological skin conditions, such as xeroderma pigmentosus.

Another type of hyperpigmentation is caused by hormonal changes, such as during pregnancy (so-called ‘melasma gravidarum’) and menopause, or due to the use of oral contraceptives.

However, there are also other non-physiological causes of hyperpigmentation. Some may be related to skin inflammations and lesions (e.g., acne, burns or scars), others to systemic diseases of different degrees and severity (such as Addison’s disease, a rare disease of the adrenal cortex), or pharmacological treatments, as in the case of certain antibiotics or chemotherapy.

In all cases, when outdoors, it is advisable to always use sun creams, preferably unscented, with an adequate protective factor, even on cloudy days, and to have a dermatological check-up once a year to exclude the presence of pathological changes. However, there are plant extracts that can help in the treatment of hyperpigmentation and related imperfections.

Hyperpigmentation and plant extracts

The first rule should always be to keep the skin healthy and well moisturized. Extracts of mallow (Malva sylvestris L.) and marshmallow (Althaea officinalis L.), standardized in mucilage, can be useful for this purpose, as the latter retain liquids and have moisturizing properties.

Extracts of German chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla L.) and pot marigold (Calendula officinalis L.) are also recommended for their soothing and anti-reddening properties, which prevent inflammatory conditions.

Aloe vera gel (Aloe barbadensis Miller) is probably the best-known and most popular botanical for skin care, due to its emollient and humectant properties, known since ancient times. In addition to this, aloe vera contains aloesin, an active ingredient capable of inhibiting the enzyme tyrosinase and, consequently, the synthesis of melanin. An interesting study showed that aloesin could inhibit hyperpigmentation caused by UV rays.

Bearberry (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi L.) also contains a tyrosinase inhibitor, arbutin; this is a natural precursor of hydroquinone, but is less irritating and in addition to its depigmenting action also combines interesting antioxidant properties.

Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) is a real chest of precious antioxidant molecules and its polyphenol fraction has proved effective in hyperpigmentation.

Finally, turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) is widely used in Asia not only as a spice, but also for skin problems, due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties; its main active component, curcumin, can inhibit tyrosinase, thus justifying its traditional use in facial masks for skin blemishes.

Visit the Our Extracts section to download our catalogue and information materials on these and other botanicals.

Sweating is a physiological mechanism through which our body emits a liquid produced by sweat glands in order to regulate body temperature and perform other functions, such as excreting ‘waste’ substances or non-verbal communication. However, while it is normal to sweat a little more than usual when it is hot, and it is normal to sweat a lot more than usual when engaging in strenuous physical activity, there are situations in which abnormal sweating may be a sign of some psychophysical alteration.

Hyperhidrosis, or excessive sweating

Our body normally secretes at least half a liter of sweat per day. When significantly larger amounts are produced under the same conditions, we talk of hyperhidrosis, which can be generalized or localized, as in typical cases of excessive sweating on the palms of the hands, armpits, feet or face. These situations can cause embarrassment, social discomfort or limitations in daily activities, as well as a feeling of unease or a decline in the quality of life.

Hyperhidrosis can be classified as primary, when no apparent causes are found, or secondary, when a psychophysical cause is diagnosed.

In the former case, excessive sweating is due to the sympathetic nervous system sending false signals to the sweat glands, even when the body does not require thermoregulation.

In the latter case, there may be several related causes: diseases or infections (hyperthyroidism, tuberculosis, HIV, blood cell or bone marrow disorders, tumors), bad habits or addictions (alcohol and drugs), physical conditions (obesity), use of certain medications or temporary physiological conditions, such as menopause.

Hypohidrosis and anhidrosis, or decreased sweating

There is also the reverse phenomenon, i.e. decreased sweating, a disorder that can occur as reduced sweating (hypohidrosis) or absence of sweating (anhidrosis), often accompanied by dryness of the skin in the affected area. In this case as well, the causes may be different (use of medication, injuries or diseases) and can result in an impact on the quality of life, such as weakness, dizziness, muscle cramps, excessive heat sensation and reddening of the skin.

In both cases, we are dealing with situations that require medical attention; however, there are botanicals that can help regulate sweating and related disorders. Let us see which plants have traditionally been used for this purpose.

Botanicals and sweating regulation

There are several plants whose phytocomplex can help to regularize the sweating process.

It is ancient knowledge that herbal teas or decoctions made from sage leaves, sipped or used as foot bath, have astringent properties and reduce sweat production. Sage (Salvia officinalis L.) promotes the regulation of sweating and counteracts menopause-related symptoms, as confirmed by numerous scientific studies. Indeed, it is believed that the phytoestrogens contained in sage can improve vasomotor symptoms, such as hot flashes and night sweats.

Lapacho tea, made from the bark of the Tabebuia tree (Tabebuia avellanedae Lorentz ex Griseb), has been used for millennia by indigenous populations in South America, who considered it a true panacea. This plant supports the body’s depurative functions and helps regulate excessive sweating.

The flower heads of chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla L.) are traditionally used to promote the regulation of sweating and also have soothing and emollient effects on the skin, even in cases of irritation due to excessive sweating, commonly known as ‘heat rash’ or ‘miliaria’, which primarily affects infants and children during the summer months. In fact, according to a review conducted by the College of Pharmacy, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, recently published in Molecules, its chemical constituents possess anti-infective and anti-inflammatory properties, among others.

Finally, the flowers of black elder (Sambucus nigra L.) and the flowering aerial parts of meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria L.), also known as “queen of the meadow”, contain phytochemical substances with diaphoretic action, which can improve hypohidrosis and anhidrosis.

 

In summary, sweating-related disorders, whether in excess or deficiency, can be contingent and physiological. However, when they become an impediment to normal daily activities or have repercussions on the quality of life, they should immediately raise concerns about an altered psychophysical health condition. After evaluation by a primary care physician and, if necessary, a skin specialist, plant extracts can represent a valid and effective alternative to restore well-being.

To learn more about our extracts, visit the dedicated section on our website at www.eposrl.com/en/our-extracts/

Why has man, since prehistoric times, sought to surround himself with color? Where did he find the material in nature to meet a need so deep-rooted in his soul?

The art of extracting colors from natural resources has roots that go back to the dawn of mankind, but with the advent of synthetic dyes – which are cheaper and more versatile – the knowledge associated with this practice was in danger of being lost.

Read on to discover the history of natural dyes and the most commonly used plants!

Dyeing plants: a millenarian history

Dyeing and painting with natural pigments dates back to the origins of mankind; humans have always drawn the necessary raw materials from a wide variety of plants, as well as from the animal kingdom (e.g. molluscs and insects) and minerals. For millennia, the production of natural dyes has been spreading thanks to their use for ritual, decorative, cosmetic and food purposes.

Since prehistoric times, different colors have taken on several symbolic, religious, aesthetic and social meanings; cave paintings dating back to that distant era have been found on practically every continent; indeed, psychology teaches us that colors stimulate the human mind by arousing emotions.

In ancient times, dyeing plants have been of enormous importance for the development of economy and technology, as well as in cultural exchanges. Some of them have been cultivated and traded since ancient times, becoming important factors in economic growth and significantly influencing the development of entire areas for many centuries. 

For example, woad (Isatis tinctoria L.), already known to the Romans and widespread throughout central and northern Italy, was a source of a blue pigment, obtained from the leaves, very appreciated both as a pictorial color and for dyeing fabrics. This later became the color of ‘Genoa blue’ fabric, or ‘blue jeans’, commonly used for making work clothes, as is also testified by an anonymous 17th century painter from Lombardy, the Master of the Blue Jeans. However, starting around the same time, woad was gradually replaced by Asian indigo (obtained from Indigofera tinctoria L.), which was much cheaper, to the detriment of many local economies.

Nevertheless, the collapse of the natural dye market occurred at the beginning of the 20th century, due to the spread of synthetic dyes, which were more economical and stable; however, there has been a rediscovery of natural dyes in recent times.

Dyeing plants: how are they used?

Plant dyeing is a process that involves first extracting the pigment from the plant and then applying it to a support such as paper, fabric, wood, clay or leather; the extraction methods depend on the part of the plant used. 

Pigments are extracted from most plants through maceration and decoction in water; the shade of the colors obtained depends on the individual species, as we will see from the list of the main dyeing plants.

Almost all plant dyes require adequate treatment of the substrate to allow them to penetrate and adhere stably.

What are the advantages of using dye plants?

With the advent of synthetic dyes, the practice of natural dyeing has increasingly been limited to specific contexts, such as handicrafts and textiles.

In recent years, however, there has been a growing interest in dyeing plants and natural dyes. This is due, on the one hand, to an increased public interest in all things natural and, on the other hand, to a concern for human health and the environment, mainly linked to the pollution caused by synthetic dyes and the industrial processes in which they are used, especially in the textile sector.

In contrast, dyes of natural origin offer greater safety of use, as well as possessing functional properties that can be added to the substrate, such as antioxidant, antimicrobial and UV-protection properties.

It is well known that botanicals can also be used as ‘green’ raw materials in industry and in the restoration of works of art. Read more in our article.

Dyeing plants: the best known and most used

There are over a thousand botanical species classified as dyeing plants, the most famous of which are:

• Alkanet, Alkanna tinctoria (L.) Tausch, an evergreen shrub from whose roots a red dye substance, alcannin (a naphthoquinone), is obtained;
• Madder, Rubia tinctorum L., from whose roots ‘garanza red’ or ‘alizarin red’ is obtained;
• Safflower, Carthamus tinctorius L., from the anthers of which (a part of the flower) dyes, based on flavonoids, are obtained that are used to give various shades of red; 
• Turmeric, Curcuma longa L., the well-known spice used as a yellow-orange dye;
• Saffron, Crocus sativus L., from whose precious stigmas (also a part of the flower) a yellow-orange dye, based on carotenoids, is obtained;
• Lesser broom, Genista tinctoria L., whose isoflavones, present in all its parts, give rise to a chick yellow dye;
• Walnut husk (the pulp surrounding the walnut fruit), Juglans regia L., the dye of which has characteristic brown shades due to tannins, flavonoids and juglone;
• Woad, Isatis tinctoria L., a plant similar to broccoli, from which a blue pigment (indigo, an indole-type nitrogenous dye) is obtained;
• True Indigo, Indigofera tinctoria L., an Indian shrub from which the pigment of the same name is extracted.

In conclusion, dyeing plants represent a precious, centuries-old tradition that is experiencing a renaissance as a sustainable and environmentally friendly solution for safe and biodegradable natural dyes. A benefit for us and the planet.

In March, the European Commission launched a public consultation in order to receive comments in relation to a proposal aimed at introducing maximum levels of nickel in foodstuffs; at present, nickel is not regulated by Regulation (EC) 1881/2006, now replaced by Regulation (EU) 915/2023, which comes into force on 25/05/2023.

As early as 2020, EFSA (the European Food Safety Authority) expressed concern about the presence of nickel in food and drinking water, with potential risks to public health.

The European Commission therefore recommended that Member States promote data collection on nickel levels in food, including food supplements.

Limits for nickel have already been set for cosmetics, but what are the consequences of an excessive nickel intake through the diet? Which foods are affected? And what measures have we at EPO decided to take for our extracts?

Nickel: what it is and where it is found

Nickel is a heavy metal that is quite ubiquitous in nature; similar in appearance to silver, it is used in many metal alloys, which is why it is found in many everyday objects, such as: 

• Costume jewellery and accessories, such as glasses and belts etc.;
• Keys and coins;
• Detergents, soaps and cosmetics;
• Kitchen utensils, such as pots and pans and crockery.

For all those objects that come into direct contact with the skin, already Regulation (EC) 1907/2006 REACH (Annex XVII, point 27) has introduced restrictions to limit the release of the metal.

However, nickel can also be found in drinking water and, in minute quantities, in food, especially in chocolate, oilseeds, cereals, some vegetables (such as tomatoes, spinach, asparagus, brassica vegetables), some fresh and dried fruits, seaweed, crustaceans and seafood.

Nickel allergy and intolerance: what are the health risks?

Like all allergies, nickel allergy consists of an excessive immune response to this metal. 

In predisposed individuals, nickel can in fact provoke a reaction, usually after prolonged or repeated exposure to objects containing it, characterised by contact dermatitis, but also systemic symptoms such as urticaria, eczema and itching.

For this reason, the current cosmetics regulation places nickel in Annex II, i.e. among the banned substances, but also introduces the apparently contradictory concept of ‘technically unavoidable in good manufacturing practice‘; therefore the presence of nickel traces can be tolerated if the cosmetic product has been assessed as safe as a whole. In Italy, the Istituto Superiore di Sanità  has set a maximum threshold of 10 ppm for cosmetic formulations.

However, nickel is also a microelement used by our body as a cofactor for several enzymes involved in many metabolic pathways; for healthy adults, the daily intake should be 100 micrograms, generally achieved by the diet; excessive nickel intake can lead to skin rash, gastrointestinal problems, bloating, headache and dizziness, respiratory problems and chest pains.

Measures taken by EPO

Following the attention paid by the European Commission to possible levels of nickel contamination in food, EPO immediately started a data collection, which will continue for the three-year period 2024-2026.

This data gathering is useful to obtain information on possible critical issues and establish a subsequent control plan, with a view to meeting any future regulatory requirements. Although botanicals are not explicitly mentioned in the European Commission’s proposal, the maximum limit considered will be 1 ppm.

In conclusion, in view of the future restrictions proposed by the European Commission, EPO is already taking measures to ensure the safety of its products and will carry out a three-year monitoring of the botanical raw materials considered to be at the highest risk of environmental contamination.

As always, we are available to support our customers if they have any doubts or need more information on the new proposal (qualityassurance@eposrl.com).

The arrival of fine weather entices us to spend more time outdoors, but for seasonal allergy sufferers, even a simple walk in the park can turn into the worst nightmare. Allergies are among the most prevalent chronic diseases worldwide; according to the Italian National Institute of Health (ISS), the prevalence of allergic rhinitis is steadily increasing: in Europe, it is estimated at between 10 and 20 per cent. 

Living with the symptoms can be critical, but there are some plant extracts that can help alleviate the discomfort of seasonal allergies – let’s find out what they are.

Allergy: all the fault of histamine

Seasonal allergies are caused by an overreaction of the immune system to substances in the environment called allergens (such as pollen, for example), which are completely harmless to normal individuals. Upon inhalation or direct contact, the immune system releases mediators, including histamine, a nitrogenous compound that causes allergic symptoms and inflammatory reactions. 

Seasonal allergies, also known by the somewhat misleading term ‘hay fever’, only occur at a certain time of year, most frequently in spring, when the allergens that trigger them are present in the air. Usually the allergic reaction affects the mucous membranes of the nose (allergic rhinitis) or the eyes and periocular areas (allergic conjunctivitis), with typical symptoms such as nasal discharge, congestion, sneezing, tearing and itching. In severe cases, it can exacerbate other pre-existing allergic conditions, such as asthma.

Climate change and seasonal allergies

Pollen allergies are on the rise throughout Europe, which cannot be justified by changes in the genetics, health conditions or lifestyle of its population alone. It has long been known that climate change has a negative impact on seasonal allergies. A recent study examined this very phenomenon.

In fact, climate change causes modifications in the biological cycles of plants, with negative repercussions on the human immune system. Some examples are: earlier flowering and consequently longer pollen seasons, increased pollen concentration due to global warming and increased availability of carbon dioxide, and the spread of allergenic plants to regions that were previously climatically unfavourable. It is also known that particularly frequent and intense spring and summer thunderstorms cause pollen grains to break up, releasing small allergenic particles that can cause serious respiratory problems in predisposed persons.

Natural remedies to fight seasonal allergies

What can we do so that we are not unprepared when trees and plants start to flower? There are essentially two strategies to fight allergies: 

• reduce contact with the allergen (when known and if possible);
• reduce hypersensitivity.

Usually, antihistamines or decongestants are used, but many botanicals have also traditionally been used to relieve allergies by virtue of their anti-inflammatory, decongestant, expectorant, antimicrobial and immunomodulatory properties. 

It is important to remember, however, that the extracts themselves can trigger allergic reactions in predisposed subjects, so the use of plants and plant extracts should always be supervised by a physician and in any case limited to moderate episodes.

Let’s see which are the main plants useful in seasonal allergies:

• Nettle leaf: the use of nettle as a medicinal plant dates back as far as Dioscorides (1st century AD) and its traditional use as an anti-allergic in hay fever, asthma and skin itching is well documented. In addition, it favours the body’s physiological purifying functions, the drainage of body fluids and the functionality of the upper respiratory tract.
• Ribes Nigrum (gemmotherapy extract): Ribes Nigrum or blackcurrant has a special action: it stimulates the adrenal cortex to produce corticosteroids and is effective against all types of allergies. It is used for skin and respiratory allergies and is especially indicated for allergic and chronic rhinitis, asthma, bronchitis, laryngitis, pharyngitis, dermatitis and conjunctivitis. Therefore useful for the well-being of the nose and throat.
• Elderflower: Black elder is a valuable remedy for all respiratory problems. It has an anti-inflammatory and decongestant effect and is traditionally used in allergic rhinitis. It also has a diaphoretic action, useful in febrile states. The immunomodulating properties of the flowers and berries are still being studied.
• Marshmallow root: Marshmallow is a classic emollient plant, traditionally used to soothe inflamed mucous membranes, particularly those of the respiratory tract. Its use in coughs is reported by Theophrastus (4th century BC).

We also mention other plant and spice extracts that may be useful for this purpose, such as agrimony, chamomile, echinacea purpurea, erysimum, plantain, thymus vulgaris, mullein and the roots of turmeric, liquorice and ginger.

Visit the download area to obtain our catalogue and information materials on these and other plant extracts.

On August 5th, 2022, the European Commission issued the new EU Regulation 2022/1370, updating the previous EC Regulation 1881/2006, and amended the list of foodstuffs that contribute to human exposure to ochratoxin A.

Underlying this decision is concern about the intake of foodstuffs, contaminated with this mycotoxin, in quantities potentially dangerous to human health.

Read on to find out about the consequences of EU Regulation 2022/1370 and the measures we at EPO have decided to take for our extracts.

Ochratoxin A: what is it and what are the health risks?

The presence of ochratoxin A (OTA) in food is a growing public health concern. In this context, the European Food Safety Authority – EFSA has recently published a scientific opinion on the genotoxicity and carcinogenicity of OTA, showing how important it is to closely monitor this mycotoxin. 

But where does it come from and what are the risks of its consumption?

Ochratoxin A is produced naturally by certain species of fungi in the Aspergillus and Penicillium genus, which can contaminate food products such as cereals, coffee, sultanas, dried fruit, wine, spices, herbs and roots (such as liquorice). This mycotoxin is formed during sun-drying and storage of the crop.

Back in 2020, EFSA had already published a scientific opinion on the public health risks associated with the presence of OTA in food, as new data had emerged regarding its genotoxicity, i.e. its ability to directly damage DNA, the genetic material of cells, in addition to its previously known carcinogenic effects, especially on the kidney.

The expert panel also calculated the so-called margin of exposure (MOE), a tool used by risk assessors to analyse possible safety concerns arising from the presence of genotoxic and carcinogenic substances in food.

These assessments were used by the European Commission to decide the maximum levels of OTAs allowed in food. The new regulation, in fact, replaces entry 2.2 of the Annex to Regulation (EC) No 1881/2006, Section 2. It is, therefore, a matter of:

• Introducing limits for products not previously regulated, such as dried herbs and certain roots used for infusions or as coffee substitutes
• Extension of its application in the case of certain categories, such as all dried fruits
• Lowering the limits for some products, such as coffee, both roasted and soluble.

How does the new EU Regulation apply to botanicals?

The new EU Regulation 2022/1370 came into force on 1 January 2023, with the exclusion of products legally placed on the market before that date and up to their date of minimum durability or use-by-date. The foodstuffs that concern us closely are liquorice, dried herbs and certain ingredients for herbal infusions, as they are mentioned in the Annex (categories 2.2.15, 2.2.16 and 2.2.17).

However, after discussions with trade associations and the Ministry of Health, it would appear that this EU regulation is not strictly applicable to herbal raw materials and extracts produced from them. A dialogue with the authorities is still open in order to clarify this position.

EPO measures in the light of the new EU Regulation

In spite of this, since the end of 2020 EPO has decided to implement a self-control plan to monitor OTA levels in dried herbs, focusing mainly on roots, seeds and rhizomes, i.e. the parts of plants most at risk of contamination.  Data collected so far have detected the presence of OTA, but always below legal limits, including those of the new regulation. High-risk herbs will continue to be tested every three years to ensure their safety.

EPO has also revised the technical specifications of its herbal raw materials and requires suppliers to adapt and pay attention to the limits specified in category 2.2.16 (dried herbs).

In conclusion, in spite of the restrictions introduced by the new EU regulation, EPO has taken measures to ensure the safety of its products and has activated constant monitoring of herbal raw materials and extracts derived from them.

We remain available to activate a fruitful exchange of information between all parties involved and to support our customers in case of doubts or if more information on the new regulation is needed (qualityassurance@eposrl.com).

The use of botanicals as “green” raw materials in industry and art restoration is part of the growing focus on the environment and the use of “eco-friendly” strategies, in line with the challenges of the UN 2030 Agenda.

Since the dawn of mankind, medicinal plants have been used to improve the health of humans and animals. However, botanicals can also be used in contexts other than nutraceuticals; many industries are moving in this direction, introducing plant extracts in their processing or as a support to them. 

But what are their uses? Why can they be considered green? And most importantly, what is the advantage of their use? Read on to find out!

What are botanicals and what are their properties

Plants are a veritable treasure chest of biochemical compounds, that can be divided into two categories:

• primary or general metabolites, such as chlorophyll, proteins, lipids and sugars, produced by all plants and necessary for the survival of the cells themselves;
• secondary or specialized metabolites, consisting mainly of terpenes, alkaloids and phenols, which are synthesized in the plant through specialized and species-specific (i.e., characteristic of a plant species) metabolic pathways; the latter play a protective function in the plant against microorganisms or physical and chemical damage, but also deter or attract higher animals.

Because of the inherent characteristics of plants, these organic compounds, which we find in extracts or botanicals, are biodegradable, environmentally friendly, and renewable.

The industrial use of botanicals is due not only to their biocidal properties, that is essentially antimicrobial, but also because of their anti-corrosive, anti-fouling, and UV-shielding capacity.

The use of plant extracts in the marine industry

Among the industrial applications of plant extracts, the case of marine industry is worth mentioning. Indeed, plant extracts can play an important role in combating the phenomenon of biofouling, that is the formation of biofilm on surfaces immersed in water, such as those of boats, marine structures, pipelines and boats. The formation of this biofilm – which is caused by organisms such as viruses, bacteria, microalgae, fungi and protozoa – has a huge cost in terms of maintenance and repair of the surfaces involved, not to mention the increase in harmful gas emissions due to the increased fuel consumption for weighing down the boats on which the organic material accumulates.

The use of natural antifouling can help control this problem without resorting to toxic agents, such as tributyltin, that have negative impacts on aquatic life. Some phenols, glucosinolates and flavonoids have shown great promise in this area.

Plant extracts as bioactive compounds in food packaging

Some plant matrices such as leaves, flowers, fruits, seeds and oils are known to be natural sources of antioxidant and non-toxic antimicrobial molecules, environmentally friendly and safe. For this reason, as an alternative to chemical and artificial food additives, the study of plant extracts as natural bioactive compounds in food packaging and edible coatings to extend the shelf life of products is becoming increasingly popular.

Essential oils and extracts of some tropical plants have been experimented in this field.

Plant extracts: an effective alternative for cultural heritage restoration

Another somewhat interesting panorama is that related to the biodeterioration of artworks, caused by fungi, bacteria and other biological agents that threaten their preservation. In fact, many chemicals used in restoration can be dangerous to artworks, to the health of restorers and even to the environment. For this reason, alternative restoration techniques based on natural products have been experimented for some years. Research focuses on certain essential oils and extracts with antibacterial, antifungal, anti-adhesive and antioxidant properties that can effectively counteract the decay of artworks. 

For example, a work preserved at the Uffizi in Florence was restored, using a mixture of bitter orange hydrolate and cinnamon bark essential oil for the first time; it is Il Silenzio by Jacopo Zucchi and this innovative technique allowed to remove fungal contamination from the painting with an excellent result.

Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) has also been shown to counteract wood deterioration caused by bacteria, fungi and insects in artworks, as in the case of a wood sculpture belonging to the Sogo Bò collection of the “Pasqualino Noto” International Museum of Puppets in Palermo.

On the latter topic, you can read the study that EPO collaborated on: Thymus vulgaris Essential Oil and Hydro-Alcoholic Solutions to Counteract Wooden Artwork Microbial Colonization.