NATURAL ANTIFUNGAL SOLUTION FOR SUSTAINABLE CROP PROTECTION

Abstract

This invention introduces a natural antifungal formulation containing garlic, clove, thyme, turmeric, and lemongrass extracts. Designed as a foliar spray, the formulation offers broad-spectrum protection against fungal pathogens, promoting plant health and supporting sustainable agriculture. It provides an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic fungicides, reducing environmental impact and supporting organic farming practices.

Specification

Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates to agricultural biotechnology, specifically to a natural antifungal formulation developed for sustainable crop protection. The formulation combines botanical extracts, each known for its potent antifungal properties, to offer an environmentally friendly alternative to synthetic fungicides. It provides broad-spectrum protection against fungal pathogens, promoting healthier plant growth and supporting sustainable agricultural practices.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Fungal diseases significantly impact crop yield and quality, posing challenges for farmers globally. Conventional methods of controlling fungal pathogens rely heavily on synthetic fungicides, which, although effective, have numerous drawbacks, including environmental toxicity, health risks, and the potential to create fungicide-resistant strains. Synthetic fungicides also disrupt soil ecosystems and pose risks to beneficial organisms such as pollinators and soil microbes, which are essential for maintaining balanced agro-ecosystems.
With the rising demand for organic and sustainable agricultural practices, there is an increasing need for natural, eco-friendly alternatives that can effectively manage fungal pathogens. Botanical antifungal agents, derived from natural plant sources, offer a promising solution, as they are biodegradable, have low toxicity, and are less likely to lead to resistance development in pathogens. However, individual botanical extracts vary in efficacy, and optimal combinations that enhance antifungal activity while minimizing phytotoxicity are not well-documented. This invention fills this gap by introducing a formulation combining garlic, clove, thyme, turmeric, and lemongrass extracts to create a synergistic effect, providing comprehensive and durable protection against a wide range of fungal diseases.
This invention's unique formulation is designed as an easy-to-apply liquid spray, making it accessible to both commercial farmers and home gardeners. By harnessing the potent antifungal properties of these botanical extracts, the formulation offers an effective, sustainable alternative to chemical fungicides, aligning with the global movement toward safer, more resilient agricultural practices.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts, in a simplified format, that are further described in the detailed description of the invention.
This summary is neither intended to identify key or essential inventive concepts of the invention and nor is it intended for determining the scope of the invention.
To further clarify advantages and features of the present invention, a more particular description of the invention will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof, which is illustrated in the appended drawings. It is appreciated that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope. The invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail with the accompanying drawings.
The invention presents a natural antifungal formulation containing garlic, clove, thyme, turmeric, and lemongrass extracts, each known for its antimicrobial properties. The formulation effectively controls various fungal pathogens by inhibiting spore germination, disrupting fungal cell membranes, and enhancing plant immunity. This eco-friendly solution provides broad-spectrum protection, is safe for the environment, and supports sustainable agricultural practices by reducing dependency on synthetic chemicals.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The illustrated embodiments of the subject matter will be understood by reference to the drawings, wherein like parts are designated by like numerals throughout. The following description is intended only by way of example, and simply illustrates certain selected embodiments of devices, systems, and methods that are consistent with the subject matter as claimed herein, wherein:
FIGURE 1: ILLUSTRATES THE PREPARATION PROCESS OF THE FORMULATION, DETAILING THE EXTRACTION AND COMBINATION OF BOTANICAL INGREDIENTS.
The figures depict embodiments of the present subject matter for the purposes of illustration only. A person skilled in the art will easily recognize from the following description that alternative embodiments of the structures and methods illustrated herein may be employed without departing from the principles of the disclosure described herein.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
The detailed description of various exemplary embodiments of the disclosure is described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the embodiments are described herein in such details as to clearly communicate the disclosure. However, the amount of details provided herein is not intended to limit the anticipated variations of embodiments; on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims.
It is also to be understood that various arrangements may be devised that, although not explicitly described or shown herein, embody the principles of the present disclosure. Moreover, all statements herein reciting principles, aspects, and embodiments of the present disclosure, as well as specific examples, are intended to encompass equivalents thereof.
The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of example embodiments. As used herein, the singular forms "a"," "an" and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms "comprises," "comprising," "includes" and/or "including," when used herein, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components and/or groups thereof.
It should also be noted that in some alternative implementations, the functions/acts noted may occur out of the order noted in the figures. For example, two figures shown in succession may, in fact, be executed concurrently or may sometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending upon the functionality/acts involved.
In addition, the descriptions of "first", "second", "third", and the like in the present invention are used for the purpose of description only, and are not to be construed as indicating or implying their relative importance or implicitly indicating the number of technical features indicated. Thus, features defining "first" and "second" may include at least one of the features, either explicitly or implicitly.
Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which example embodiments belong. It will be further understood that terms, e.g., those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.
The present invention introduces a natural antifungal formulation for agricultural use, composed of garlic, clove, thyme, turmeric, and lemongrass extracts. Each ingredient is selected for its unique antifungal properties, ensuring the formulation provides a broad spectrum of protection. The ingredients are processed through optimal extraction methods to retain their active components, resulting in a potent blend that is effective against a wide range of fungal pathogens.
Garlic extract, included at 200 mg, contains allicin, an organosulfur compound with broad-spectrum antifungal properties. Allicin disrupts fungal cell walls, preventing their growth and inhibiting spore germination. Clove oil at 50 mg is rich in eugenol, a natural phenolic compound that penetrates fungal cell membranes, inducing cell death. Thyme extract, standardized to contain 75 mg of thymol, provides dual antifungal and antibacterial effects, enhancing the formulation's effectiveness against mixed microbial infections. Turmeric extract, containing 150 mg of curcumin, stimulates plant immunity and further inhibits fungal growth by disrupting essential fungal enzymes. Lemongrass extract, at 100 mg, provides additional antifungal activity through its high citronella and geraniol content, which act as natural fungicides.
The formulation is designed as a foliar spray, making it easy to apply directly to crops. It is recommended for use every 7 to 14 days, particularly during high-risk periods such as humid or damp conditions that favor fungal growth. The formulation can be diluted based on crop type and fungal threat, ensuring versatility across different agricultural applications. The combined action of these botanical extracts not only protects plants from fungal infections but also promotes healthier growth by stimulating the plant's natural defense mechanisms.
The preparation of this formulation involves steam distillation for essential oils such as clove, thyme, and lemongrass, ensuring the active components' purity and potency. Garlic and turmeric extracts are obtained through solvent extraction to maximize allicin and curcumin content. The extracted botanicals are then blended in precise ratios, ensuring consistent quality and efficacy. This formulation can be stored for up to 12 months when kept in a cool, dark place, maintaining its effectiveness over time and providing a convenient, durable solution for farmers.
, Claims:1. A natural antifungal formulation for sustainable crop protection, comprising garlic extract, clove oil, thyme extract, turmeric extract, and lemongrass extract.
2. The formulation as claimed in Claim 1, wherein the garlic extract contains allicin at a concentration of 200 mg to inhibit fungal spore germination and disrupt cell walls.
3. The formulation as claimed in Claim 1, wherein the clove oil is standardized to contain 50 mg of eugenol for enhanced penetration and cell membrane disruption in fungal pathogens.
4. The formulation as claimed in Claim 1, wherein the thyme extract contains 75 mg of thymol, providing antifungal and antibacterial properties.
5. The formulation as claimed in Claim 1, wherein the turmeric extract contains 150 mg of curcumin, promoting plant immunity and inhibiting fungal enzyme activity.
6. The formulation as claimed in Claim 1, wherein the lemongrass extract contains 100 mg of citronella and geraniol, providing additional antifungal efficacy.
7. A method for preparing the formulation as claimed in Claim 1, involving steam distillation for essential oils and solvent extraction for garlic and turmeric.
8. The formulation as claimed in Claim 1, wherein the combined botanical extracts provide synergistic antifungal activity, enhancing protection across various fungal pathogens.
9. A method for applying the formulation as claimed in Claim 1 as a foliar spray on crops, recommended every 7 to 14 days for consistent protection.

10. The formulation as claimed in Claim 1, wherein it supports sustainable agricultural practices by reducing reliance on synthetic fungicides and promoting environmental safety.

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