Unveiling the molecular composition and biological properties of essential oil derived from the leaves of wild Mentha aquatica L.: A comprehensive in vitro and in silico exploration

The purpose of the current study is to assess the chemical profile, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and insecticide efficacy of essential oil derived from the leaf of Moroccan Mentha aquatica L. (MA-EO) using in vitro and in silico analysis. Using GC-MS/MS analysis, 18 components of MA-EO were identified, including linalool (42.42%), α-elemol (10.45%), α-terpineol (8.07%), linalyl acetate (7.37%), and caryophyllene (4.05%). Additionally, MA-EO has a strong antioxidant capacity with IC50 values of 0.64 ± 0.01 µg/mL using the DPPH assay and 0.167 ± 0.13 µg/mL using the ABTS test. Total antioxidant capacity activities were found to be 188.21 ± 0.31 mg EAA/g, while RP activities were 1.95 ± 0.023. The powerful antibacterial properties of MA-EO were proven to be effective against Escherichia coli and Candida albicans. MA-EO showed insecticidal potential using the fumigation experiment, with an LC50 of 3.33 μL/L in the air after 24 h of exposure. At a dose of 20 µL/mL, MA-EO reduced fertility, fecundity, and emergence of adult C. maculatus. MA-EO had 95% mortality at the same dosage. In silico analysis revealed that the antioxidant activity of MA-EO is linked to γ-eudesmol, while its antibacterial efficacy is associated with phenol, 2,4-di-tert-butyl-, and its antifungal capacity with phenol, 2,4-di-tert-butyl-. MA-EO demonstrates potent bactericidal, fungicidal, and bioinsecticide properties, making it effective for controlling bacteria, fungi, and insect pests in stored grains.