The present invention relates to synergistic multifunctional herbal edible formulations which comprise: gum acacia 0.5 to 2 w/v%, plant starch 0.2 to 1 w/v%, turmeric  extract 0.1 to 0.5 w/v%, eugenol 0.025 to 0.2 w/v%, chitosan 0.2 to 1 w/v% and its use for coating perishable food products, especially grape, banana, apple, pear, amla  and tomato. Also described herein are methods for the composition preparation as well as coating food products and the use of the herbal coating for extending the  postharvest shelf-life of food products due to reduction of weight loss, antimicrobial activity, higher total antioxidant activity, inhibition of polyphenol peroxidase  activity and reduction in ethylene production in the coated fruits and vegetables is also described.