Citrus-Based Solutions in Modern Agriculture: A New Frontier

Strategic Insights -

Researchers at the University of Genova have identified the potential of citrus extracts, essential oils, and bioactive compounds in enhancing crop protection and promoting sustainable agriculture. As the world grapples with the challenges of environmental degradation and human health risks associated with chemical-based pest management, citrus-based solutions are poised to play a crucial role in advancing sustainable and resilient agricultural practices. This comprehensive review highlights the broad spectrum of activity of these fruits against various plant micro-organisms and weeds, and their ability to reduce reliance on chemicals.

Key Takeaways:

  • Citrus-based solutions have the potential to reduce reliance on chemicals in crop protection, addressing resistance issues and promoting sustainable agriculture and rural economies.
  • The review explores the biological activities of citrus species in crop protection, highlighting their broad spectrum of activity against a wide range of plant micro-organisms and weeds.
  • The use of citrus waste in agriculture can advance sustainable and resilient agricultural practices.
  • The research highlights the importance of balancing productivity with environmental and health concerns in modern agriculture.
  • The study summarizes the potential benefits of citrus extracts, essential oils, and bioactive compounds in enhancing crop protection.
  • The review was conducted by a team of researchers from the University of Genova, including Marta Lo Vetere, Valeria Iobbi, Anna Paola Lanteri, Andrea Minuto, Giovanni Minuto, Nunziatina De Tommasi, and Angela Bisio.

Statistics:

  • 22():102139 is the citation for the research article "The biological activities of Citrus species in crop protection" in the Journal of Agriculture and Food Research.
  • The article was published in 2025 by Elsevier.
  • The research was conducted at the University of Genova, Italy.
  • The study highlights the importance of integrating natural products into pest management strategies to reduce chemical use and promote sustainable agriculture.
  • 16148 is the region code for Genova, Italy.

Sources:

  • The University of Genova, Department of Pharmacy, Viale Cembrano 4, 16148, Genova, Italy.
  • Journal of Agriculture and Food Research, Elsevier.
  • The citation for the news report is: NewsRx. University of Genova Researchers Describe New Findings in Agriculture and Food Research (The biological activities of Citrus species in crop protection). Food Weekly News. August 14, 2025; p 358.
  • The biological activities of Citrus species in crop protection. Journal of Agriculture and Food Research, 2025,22():102139.