Clove essential oil and eugenol: A review of their significance and uses

Abstract

The present review provides a comprehensive overview of clove essential oil, including an outline of extraction methods, a review of its medical applications, an approach to toxicity and antimicrobial activity of eugenol, an exploration of recent advancements in polymeric materials, and an emphasis on important methodologies for assessing the antimicrobial properties of films in active food packaging incorporating clove oil extracts into polymer formulations. By employing bibliometric research methods, the review also explores the evolution of scientific production on clove oil, highlighting significant contributions to the field. Specifically, in the field of active packaging, the integration of clove oil and eugenol to produce antimicrobial packaging offers substantial benefits for food preservation, yet it also presents several challenges that must be addressed through continued research. By overcoming these challenges and navigating the regulatory landscape, eugenol-based packaging could play a significant role in the future of sustainable food preservation, offering both enhanced safety and extended shelf life for a wide range of food products.