Agricultural use of nanoencapsulated plant extracts for phytopathogen control and postharvest management

Abstract

The nanoencapsulation of plant extracts is emerging as an innovative alternative to enhance sustainable management of phytopathogens and improve postharvest quality. This review aims to synthesize recent advances in nanoformulations based on plant-derived bioactive compounds, and to analyze their mechanisms of action, benefits, limitations, and potential applications in agricultural systems. Relevant and up-to-date scientific literature was examined, prioritizing studies reporting experimental results, technological developments, and applications in field or postharvest conditions. Findings show that nanoencapsulation increases the stability, bioavailability, and efficacy of plant metabolites such as phenols, terpenes, and essential oils by protecting them from environmental degradation, improving solubility, and enabling controlled release. Nanoformulations demonstrate superior antifungal and antibacterial activities compared with free extracts, as well as improved adhesion and retention on plant surfaces. Likewise, postharvest applications reveal benefits such as reduced physiological damage and delayed pathogen development. However, challenges remain regarding formulation variability, production costs, limited long-term data on ecotoxicity and environmental fate, and the absence of specific regulatory frameworks in many countries. In conclusion, nanoencapsulation represents a promising tool for bioagriculture, capable of enhancing the value of plant extracts and contributing to more sustainable practices, although further research, technological standardization, and regulatory development are required.