Essential Oils Extraction Methods and Applications

Abstract

Secondary metabolites (SM) are not crucial for a cell's livelihood but play a significant role in bet- ter adaptation to its environment. Secondary metabolites being antiviral, antibiotic and antifungal, can guard plants from pathogens. Spices secondary metabolites such as black pepper, cardamom, ginger, turmeric, etc. are extremely important in today's world because they have antioxidant, anti-cancerous, antimicrobial and other medicinal properties. The secondary plant metabolites modules, namely phenolics, alkaloid, saponins, and terpenes, are briefly discussed here in con- nection with their applications and advancements. There are numerous instances where plants' secondary metabolites can be used to advance various fields, including medicine, dyes, pigments, insecticides, pesticides, etc. Secondary metabolites are being made in both in vitro and in vivo tests. The influence of microbes on plants is described in the context of the enhanced manufactur- ing of these secondary metabolites in various stress conditions, with mechanisms of contact briefly elaborated. This chapter gives a detailed outline of the plant secondary metabolites, their classi- fications, secondary metabolite production and applications, and microorganisms' influences on plants and their interactions.