Characterization and Biological Potential of Lavandula angustifolia Hydrolates by Differential Pulse Voltammetry and Modified Screen-Printed Electrodes
lavender; aromatic water; scented water; bioactivity; electrochemical sensors
The search for sustainable solutions has highlighted hydrolates as valuable co-products of essential oil extraction, with increasing applications in dermocosmetics and palliative care. Among them, the hydrolate of Lavandula angustifolia exhibits anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties mainly attributed to chemical markers such as linalool and linalyl acetate. Despite its potential, the absence of standardized and accessible quality-control methods favors adulterations that compromise authenticity and efficacy. Currently, chromatography is the reference method, but its high maintenance costs limit access for small producers. In this context, this project proposes the development of electrochemical sensors based on screen-printed electrodes (SPEs) modified with molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs), combined with differential pulse voltammetry (DPV), for the selective detection of linalool. The proposal aims to provide an innovative, low-cost, and highly sensitive alternative capable of ensuring the quality of L. angustifolia hydrolates. In addition, the antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus—a common opportunistic pathogen of human skin and mucosa—and the anti-inflammatory action related to myeloperoxidase activity will be evaluated, contributing to the safe and effective use of these products in phytotherapeutic and cosmetic applications.