Dissertation Title: Evaluation and monitoring of the integral life cycle during plant production processes - extraction of essential oils - end use, through such influential parameters as fertilizer status, climate, soil moisture, etc., in space and time for the plant (Melissa Officinalis l.)

Author: Gladys HAJDINI

• Institution: University of Tirana, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Department: Industrial Chemistry

• Field of study: Natural Sciences, Industrial Production and Engineering

• Publication date: 10/06/2026

• The dissertation is published in Albanian.

© Copyright: Gladys HAJDINI

Published by the University of Tirana. Based on legal acts, regulations and policies of the UT.

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Briefing

Aromatic medicinal plants are one of the main pillars of the Albanian economy and this has led to their study having great importance. In this paper, the integral life cycle during the production processes for Melissa Officinalis and its essential oil has been studied. The study area is in the Përrenjas region, namely in Sutaj, where this plant has been cultivated and has been subjected to various irrigation and fertilization treatments in order to determine and identify the optimal growth conditions which will also bring a higher yield in the production of essential oil for the chemical industry. Different irrigation and fertilization regimes were applied in order to analyze their impact on the composition of the essential oil and its alcoholic solutions.

From the analyses it was observed that an increase in the level of irrigation and nitrates would bring an increase in the yield for biomass. By combining these two very important factors it was observed that a good management of water resources and chemical fertilizers produces plants and brings a higher yield of essential oil. Statistical analysis evidenced a significant impact (p < 0.05) of both factors, as well as a synergistic interaction between them in most of the parameters studied. Water stress leads to an increase in the bioactive components of the plant where citral was distinguished in the largest percentage, Citronellal, Geraniol, Linalool, β-caryophyllene known for their antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. In alcoholic solutions, rosmarinic acid and flavonoids were identified as the key component.

Ultimately, a combination of all factors and continuous monitoring helps Albanian farmers select which treatment method suits them based on the market they are targeting.

Keywords: Melissa officinalis L., essential oil, irrigation, fertilization, optimization