Repellent and fumigant actions of the essential oil from Salvia officinalis against storage pests: A review

Abstract

Stored food grains are greatly damaged by many pests all over the globe. Even though the usage of synthetic pesticides yields good results, they are non-biodegradable and are of high cost. Synthetic pesticides are even harmful to the humans and environment, which leads to the search and usage of plant-based volatile oil, which exhibits insecticidal properties. Due to this property, they are safe for the population and the environment. Sage (Salvia officinalis) is a popular herb in the mint family (Labiatae/ Lamiaceae), this can be used as an alternative to synthetic pesticides. This review is focused on the use of sage in controlling stored product pests. The important aspect discussed in this review is the action of sage (essential oil) on the stored pests for instance the repellent and fumigant actions on the stored pests. The article also stresses the importance of the extensive use of biopesticides.