Chemical profile and antimicrobial activity of Ocimum gratissimum L. essential oil from Dak Lak province, Vietnam

Essential oils (EOs) are predominantly found in odorous plants, particularly in Mediterranean and tropical countries worldwide. These oils hold significant value as crucial components in traditional medicine systems. Moreover, they are widely used in food technology, medicine, and cosmetics. EOs of different origins may have unique properties. Therefore, this study aimed to design and analyze the chemical composition and antimicrobial activity of the EO extracted from Ocimum gratissimum L., sourced from Dak Lak province (Vietnam). The chemical composition of the EO was assessed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The results showed 23 compounds, with eugenol accounting for the highest proportion (76.01%) and its EO exhibiting potent antimicrobial activity against Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhimurium, Bacillus cereus, and Staphylococcus aureus, as assessed via the agar disc diffusion method. Therefore, the EO extracted from O. gratissimum can be considered a natural antibacterial and aromatic agent suitable for application in the pharmaceutical and food industries.