Stability Evaluation and Antifungal Efficacy of Zingiber officinale Nanoemulsion as a Sustainable Biopesticide

Abstract

The present study focuses on the formulation, stability evaluation, and antifungal efficacy of zingiber officinale-based nanoemulsion biopesticides. Eight nanoemulsion formulations (F1–F8) were developed using olive oil, Tween 80, and aqueous phase in varying proportions to optimize physicochemical stability and biological activity. Stability studies were conducted under refrigerated (4°C), room temperature (25°C), and accelerated (40°C) conditions for three months. Among all formulations, F6 demonstrated superior stability, maintaining homogeneity, pH, and minimal changes in absorbance across all storage conditions. The antifungal activity of crude ginger extract and nanoemulsions was evaluated against major phytopathogens including Fusarium Oxysporum, Pyricularia Oryzae, Colletotrichum Falcatum, Fusarium moniliforme, and Fusarium verticillioides using the zone of inhibition method. Results indicated that nanoemulsions significantly enhanced antifungal activity compared to crude extract. Formulation F6 exhibited the highest inhibition (up to 20.7 mm) across most fungal strains.

Statistical analysis using one-way ANOVA followed by Student’s t-test confirmed a significant difference (p < 0.05) among formulations, validating the impact of nanoformulation on antifungal efficacy. Furthermore, F6 showed comparable or superior performance to a commercial pesticide in most cases.

The enhanced activity is attributed to reduced droplet size, improved dispersion, and increased bioavailability of ginger bioactive compounds. The findings suggest that ginger nanoemulsion is a promising, eco-friendly, and effective alternative to synthetic fungicides, supporting its application in sustainable agriculture and integrated pest management systems.