In vitro antifungal effect of Aloe vera and cinnamon essential oil incorporated Aloe vera on stem-end rot pathogens of mango (cv. Karthakolomban)

Purpose: This research was conducted to determine the in vitro antifungal effect of Aloe vera and cinnamon oil incorporated Aloe vera on stemend rot pathogens isolated from Karthakolomban mango. Research method: Effect of Aloe vera gel was determined using a liquid bioassay against the selected pathogens. Same bioassay was conducted to determine the effect of combinations of Aloe vera gel + cinnamon leaf and bark oils. A minimum inhibitory (MIC) and minimum lethal (MLC) concentration for each pathogen was determined. Findings: Aloe vera at 10% v/v showed the best effect against Pestalotiopsis sp. and Phomopsis sp. whereas Lasiodiplodia theobromae was controlled at the highest percentage at 12.5% v/v concentration. The MLC of Aloe vera + cinnamon leaf oil and Aloe vera + cinnamon bark oil against Pestalotiopsis were identified as 10% + 0.50 µl/ mL and 10% + 0.60 µl/ mL respectively. The MLC against Phomopsis for Aloe vera + cinnamon leaf and Aloe vera + cinnamon bark oils were identified as 10% + 0.80 µl/ mL, and 10% + 0.50 µl/ mL, respectively. When considering L. theobromae, concentrations of 12.5% + 0.60 µl/ mL and 12.5% + 0.15 µl/ mL were identified as the MLC for Aloe vera + cinnamon leaf oil and Aloe vera + cinnamon bark oil respectively. Limitations: Aloe vera gel without cinnamon oils was unable to inhibit fungal growth completely. Originality/Value: This study reveals the potential of using cinnamon oil in combination with Aloe vera as a preservative treatment against stemend rot pathogens of mango.