Abstract
This study investigated the phytochemical profile and biological activities of the essential oil (EO) distilled from Angelica archangelica L. seeds grown on trace element (TE)-polluted soil, within a phytomanagement context. The effects of soil pollution and mycorrhizal inoculation on EO composition and its antifungal, herbicidal, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties were assessed. The chemical composition of the EO, predominantly β-phellandrene, α-pinene, α-phellandrene, and β-myrcene, remained stable regardless of mycorrhizal inoculation. While antioxidant activity was moderate, the EO exhibited promising anti-inflammatory potential compared to other EO, suggesting its application in health-related products. Furthermore, the EO demonstrated antifungal activity, notably against Zymoseptoria tritici (IC(50): 21 mg.L(⁻¹)), a major wheat pathogen, and inhibited Fusarium culmorum, Fusarium graminearum and the oomycete Phytophthora infestans growth. It also reduced wheat infection by Blumeria graminis (responsible for powdery mildew) by 40%. Additionally, the EO showed herbicidal effects on ryegrass (IC(50): 144 mg.L⁻¹), indicating its potential as a natural pesticide alternative. Overall, A. archangelica EO produced on TE-polluted soils retains desirable chemical and biological activities, supporting its potential for various non-food applications. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1038/s41598-025-32550-5.