Abstract
The effect of continuous exposure and pulse application of Rosa damascena and Myrtus communis essential oils in postharvest stage cut rose flowers was evaluated. For this purpose two trials were conducted using a completely randomized design with three replications. Cut flowers were placed in holding solutions containing R. damascena and M. communis L. EOs (100, 150 and 200 mg/L-1) for 24, and then transferred to distilled water or were placed in continuous exposure R. damascena and M. communis L. EOs (10, 15 and 20 mg/L-1) in separate vessels during experimental. The R. damascena and M. communis L. EOs application increased membrane stability and decreased lipid peroxidation properties. The M. communis EO possessed the highest antimicrobial activity among the essential oils. The EOs exhibited noticeable inhibition on decreased fresh weight and vase life. EOs exhibit a higher activity in increasing antioxidant activity and lipid peroxidation inhibition. The EOs exhibited a potent ROS scavenging effect and inhibited the expression of inducible ROS synthase. These results indicate that EOs might be applicable in natural products and anti-senescence.