ARCHIVES
VOL. 8, ISSUE 3 (2023)
Development of sustainable biopesticides from natural plant sources
Authors
Dr. Thandiwe Moyo, Prof. Sipho Ndlovu, Ms. Naledi Khumalo
Abstract
The environmental and health challenges associated with synthetic
pesticides have led to increased interest in sustainable biopesticides derived
from natural plant sources. This study investigated the pesticidal properties
of extracts from five plant species: Azadirachta indica, Capsicum
annuum, Allium sativum, Citrus aurantium, and Mentha
piperita. The efficacy of these extracts was evaluated through insecticidal
bioassays against Spodoptera litura and Aphis gossypii and
fungicidal assays against Fusarium oxysporum and Alternaria alternata.
Neem and chili extracts exhibited the highest insecticidal mortality (87% and
78%, respectively) and significant fungicidal activity, with inhibition zones
of 18 mm and 16 mm against Fusarium oxysporum. Phytochemical analysis
identified azadirachtin and capsaicin as the primary active compounds.
Stability studies revealed that neem and chili extracts retained over 75%
efficacy after 30 days under diverse environmental conditions. These findings
suggest that plant-based biopesticides, particularly neem and chili extracts,
hold promise as sustainable pest control agents. However, challenges such as
formulation optimization and regulatory approvals must be addressed to
facilitate their widespread adoption.
Pages:41-44
How to cite this article:
Dr. Thandiwe Moyo, Prof. Sipho Ndlovu, Ms. Naledi Khumalo "Development of sustainable biopesticides from natural plant sources". International Journal of Pharmaceutical Science and Research, Vol 8, Issue 3, 2023, Pages 41-44
Download Author Certificate
Please enter the email address corresponding to this article submission to download your certificate.