European agriculture is moving rapidly toward sustainable solutions that reduce dependence on chemical pesticides while safeguarding yields. Two cornerstone products in this transition are Gahrda LCT20 (sunflower lecithin) and Gahrda Chitis (chitosan hydrochloride). Each product provides distinct protective effects, but their synergy—especially when mixed in water at acidic pH—opens new opportunities for more effective and reliable crop protection.
Derived from sunflower lecithin, Gahrda LCT20 acts as both an emulsifier and a fungicidal barrier. Its amphiphilic structure enables micelle formation, which enhances the uptake and spreading of spray solutions, improving foliar coverage. At the same time, lecithin disrupts fungal spore membranes and forms a protective film on leaf surfaces, preventing penetration and infection. Beyond these physical effects, lecithin also elicits plant defenses, boosting resilience against stress and disease.
Chitosan, a natural polymer derived from chitin, exerts its effects in two complementary ways. First, its positively charged –NH₃⁺ groups bind strongly to the negatively charged surfaces of fungal cell walls, directly inhibiting spore germination and fungal growth. Second, it functions as a powerful elicitor-biostimulant, triggering plants to activate defense pathways. This results in the production of phytoalexins, chitinases, and callose deposition, thereby reinforcing structural and biochemical barriers against pathogens.
Individually, lecithin and chitosan already provide strong crop protection. Lecithin enhances membrane disruption and spreadability, while chitosan delivers direct antifungal action and plant defense elicitation. When combined, their activities complement each other: lecithin weakens the fungal membrane, while chitosan binds and destabilizes it, amplifying antifungal efficacy.
Even more importantly, when mixed in water under acidic conditions (pH < 6.5), a remarkable process occurs:
Electrostatic interaction – The positively charged –NH₃⁺ groups of chitosan bind to the negatively charged phosphate groups of lecithin.
Nanostructure formation – Complexes resembling liposomes or vesicles are formed, capable of encapsulating bioactive molecules.
Enhanced solubility and stability – Lecithin stabilizes chitosan in solution (preventing precipitation), while chitosan increases the stability of lecithin vesicles by acting as a protective coating.
Improved plant uptake – These complexes are able to penetrate the cuticle more effectively, delivering chitosan deeper into the leaf tissue.
The formation of lecithin–chitosan complexes translates into tangible benefits in the field:
Stronger, more reliable disease protection through dual-action mechanisms.
Improved spray performance, with enhanced adhesion and persistence on leaves.
Higher plant resilience due to the elicitor effects of both compounds.
Sustainability and compliance, as both are classified under safe, environmentally friendly categories compatible with Integrated Crop Management (ICM) and organic systems.
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