Botanical Extracts Research Articles

Evaluating the Toxicity of Piperine, Azadirachtin, and Quercetin against Solenopsis invicta Buren (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) Workers via Feeding Bioassay under Controlled Condition

Exploration of effective management technique against Solenopsis invicta Buren (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) has gained the great concern of researchers because of its well-known negative impacts on public health, economic development and native biodiversity. Among various control measures, use of botanical extracts and essential oils are being highly focused because of eco-friendly in nature. Current study explains the effectiveness of three bioactive compounds including Piperine, Azadirachtin, Quercetin and all of their possible combinations against S. invicta workers. Sugar water (20% w/w) was used as solvent for these treatments. Data of mortality were recorded after every 24, 48 and 72 hours. Results revealed that all the treatments caused satisfied mortality in exposed fire ant workers. The mortality was directly proportional to concentrations and time of exposure in all treatments. Among all the treatments, Piperine and its combinations caused highest mortality of fire ant worker. This study will be more useful to future work regarding chemical ecology of social ants. The results of research presented great potential of these biopesticides against S. invicta.

Comparative Efficacy of Botanical Extracts Along with their Biosynthesized Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles Against House Fly Musca Domestica (Diptera: Muscidae)

The current study was conducted in 2023 at the Department of Entomology, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, in a Completely Randomized Design with three replications. The objective of this research was to determine the efficiency of botanical extracts and their green synthesized zinc oxide nanoparticles against Musca domestica. Results revealed that at 50% concentration, Azadirachta indica extracts exhibited the highest mortality on larvae (51%), pupae (49%) and adults (53%), respectively, while at same concentration Citrus limon extracts exhibited the highest mortality on larvae (41%), pupae (45%) and adults (44%), respectively. Similarly, at 400ppm, ZnO Nps of A. indica showed 64, 57 and 67% mortality on larvae, pupae, and adults, respectively. While ZnO Nps of C. limon showed mortality on larvae (50%), pupae (54%) and adults (55%), respectively. The findings showed that A. indica extract at 50% concentration was more toxic to M. domestica as compared to C. limon extract. Additionally, A. indica ZnO Nps at 400ppm concentration were highly toxic to M. domestica as compared to C. limon ZnO Nps extract.

Non-chemical management of stem rot disease of Egyptian clover (Trifolium alexandrinum L.)

Stem rot of Egyptian clover ( L.) is considered as one of the major constraints for green Trifolium alexandrinumfodder and seed yield. Berseem stem rot is incited by a soil borne pathogen . Botanical Sclerotinia sclerotiorumextracts of , , , neem seed kernel extract (NSKE) and organic Aegle marmelos Melia azedarach Murraya koenigiiproducts like panchagavya, compost tea and poultry manure were evaluated for the management of stem rot disease. Botanical extracts were applied as foliar spray and seed treatment as well and organic inputs were applied as soil application and foliar spray. Among botanicals, application of showed a significant A. marmelosreduction in stem rot by 54.50% with 24.20% increase in green fodder yield. Among organic inputs, application of panchagavya significantly controlled the stem rot disease by 46.15% and enhanced the green fodder yield by 21.30% than untreated control. Application of panchagavya followed by leaf extracts along A. marmeloswith significant disease control also enhanced green fodder yield during both seasons. Average disease control attained by application of panchagavya and was 54.50 and 46.15% and enhanced green A. marmelos fodder yield was 24.20 and 21.30%, respectively. The current study showed that plant extracts and organic inputs have potential for the management of stem rot of berseem.

Effectiveness and tolerance of multicorrective topical treatment for infraorbital dark circles and puffiness.

Treatment of infraorbital dark circles and under-eye puffiness is challenging due to its multifactorial nature and lack of broadly applicable, effective treatments. A daily skincare treatment option that is multimodal, effective, and tolerable across a broad patient population is an unmet need. A multicorrective topical eye cream (MTEC) formulated with Tetrahexyldecyl (THD) ascorbate (vitamin C), prebiotic Inula Helenium, bioavailable peptides, botanical extracts, chrysin, and caffeine is hypothesized to improve the appearance of infraorbital dark circles and under-eye puffiness by targeting microvasculature congestion and permeability, melanin accumulation and hemoglobin degradation-related pigmentation, and skin health. An IRB approved, open-label, 12-week clinical study set out to evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of the MTEC across a broad patient population including varying ethnicities and Fitzpatrick Skin Types (FST). Female subjects (n = 40) ages 35-60 years old, with moderate-to-severe under-eye dark circles, moderate under-eye puffiness, and mild-to-moderate fine lines were enrolled into the study. Objective (Chromameter, VISIA® imaging, and Laser Doppler) and subjective assessments (clinical grading and self-assessment questionnaire) were conducted at baseline and post-baseline timepoints. Thirty-seven subjects completed the study, and the MTEC efficaciously demonstrated short-term and long-term improvements in objective and subjective assessments across a broad patient population. Specifically, the MTEC demonstrated significant improvement of infraorbital dark circles, mainly by the reduction in microvasculature congestion and permeability, melanin, and hemoglobin degradation-related pigmentation. Topical application of the MTEC may offer an effective and tolerable treatment option for infraorbital dark circles and puffiness.

Combined Effects of Ziziphus jujuba, Dimocarpus longan, and Lactuca sativa on Sleep-Related Behaviors through GABAergic Signaling.

We aimed to analyze the increase in the sleep-promoting effects based on the mixed ratio of botanical extracts, Ziziphus jujuba seeds, Dimocarpus longan fruits, and Lactuca sativa leaves, using animal models. Behavioral analyses, including an analysis of the total sleep time of Drosophila melanogaster, were conducted to select the optimal mixed ratio of the three botanical extracts. The effects were verified in a caffeine-induced sleepless model, specific neurotransmitter receptor antagonists, and ICR mice. In D. melanogaster exposed to 2.0% of each extract, group behavior was significantly reduced, and the mixed extracts of Z. jujuba, D. longan, and L. sativa (4:1:1 and 1:4:1) significantly increased the total sleep time with individual fruit flies. In the caffeine-induced insomnia model, mixed extracts (4:1:1 and 1:4:1) led to the highest increase in total sleep time. An analysis of locomotor ability revealed a significant reduction in the mobility percentage in the mixed extract groups (0:0:1, 1:0:1, 1:1:1, 4:1:1, and 1:4:1). The administration of Z. jujuba extract and mixed extracts (4:1:1) significantly increased the expression of GABAA-R, whereas the administration of the mixed extracts (4:1:1) and (1:4:1) significantly increased the expression of GABAB-R1 and GABAB-R2, respectively. D. longan extract and the mixed ratio (1:4:1) reduced the subjective nighttime movement and increased the total sleep time in the presence of flumazenil. An analysis of ICR mice indicated that the administration of mixed extracts (4:1:1) significantly increased sleep duration in a dose-dependent manner. These results indicated that the mixed ratio of Z. jujuba, D. longan, and L. sativa extracts, particularly the mixed ratio of 4:1:1, may have sleep-enhancing effects in fruit flies and mice. The study also identified changes in gene expression related to GABA receptors, indicating the potential mechanism for the observed sleep-promoting effects.

Sesquiterpene-evoked phytochemical toxicity in PC12 neuronal cells reveals a variable degree of oxidative stress and alpha-tocopherol and glutathione-dependent protection

Phytochemicals are often promoted generally as antioxidants and demonstrate variable levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) sequestration in vitro, which attributes to their neuroprotective bioactivity. Sesquiterpenes from cannabis and essential oils may demonstrate bifunctional properties towards cellular oxidative stress, possessing pro-oxidant activities by generating ROS or scavenging ROS directly. Sesquiterpenes can also oxidize forming sesquiterpene oxides, however the relative contribution they make to the bioactivity or cytotoxicity of complex botanical extracts more generally is unclear, while selected cannabis-prevalent terpenes such as β-caryophyllene may also activate cannabinoid receptors as part of their biological activity. In the present study, we investigated selected sesquiterpenes β-caryophyllene and humulene and their oxidized forms (β-caryophyllene oxide and zerumbone, respectively) against established antioxidants (ascorbic acid, α-tocopherol, and glutathione) and in the presence of cannabinoid receptor 1 and cannabinoid receptor 2 antagonists, to gain a better understanding of the molecular and cellular mechanisms of neuroprotection versus neurotoxicity in semi-differentiated rat neuronal phaeochromocytoma (PC12) cells. Our results demonstrate that the sesquiterpenes β-caryophyllene, humulene and zerumbone possess concentration-dependent neurotoxic effects in PC12 cells. Both β-caryophyllene- and humulene-evoked toxicity was unaffected by CB1 or CB2 receptor antagonism, demonstrating this occurred independently of cannabinoid receptors. Both glutathione and α-tocopherol were variably able to alleviate the concentration-dependent loss of PC12 cell viability from exposure to β-caryophyllene, humulene and zerumbone. During 4-hour exposure to sesquiterpenes only modest increases in ROS levels were noted in PC12 cells, with glutathione co-incubation significantly inhibiting intracellular ROS production. However, significant increases in ROS levels in PC12 cells were demonstrated during 24-hour incubation with either antioxidants or sesquiterpenes individually, and with additive toxicity exhibited in combination. Overall, the results highlight a concentration-dependent profile of sesquiterpene neurotoxicity independent of cannabinoid receptors and dissociated from the formation of reactive oxygen species as a marker or correlate to the loss of cell viability.

A Review on: common botanicals in Nepal on management of crop diseases

The crop production is turn down by many pathogens, weeds, insects comprising 36.5% of annual loss under field and 14% during storage conditions. Among many practices adopted to manage plant diseases, use of synthetic chemicals is more convinced and are adopting as a last resort of the disease management worldwide. Despite of its efficacy, use of chemicals is threatening the environments, health of human and animals because of its residual toxicity, non- specificity, resurgence and costly nature. Emerging agriculture is now being replacing the hazardous chemicals through the use of biological and botanicals. The botanicals growing naturally possess numerous antimicrobial metabolites that act against various pathogens reducing the disease severity with out having adversities on animal health and environment. Neem, Melia, Datura, garlic, ginger, turmeric, eucalyptus, onion, basil, tobacco, nettle, black pepper, chilli etc. have antimicrobial metabolites such as phenols, phenolic acids, quinones, flavones, flavonoids, flavanols, tannins, coumarins etc. These constituents can be potential pesticides. From in-vivo and in-vitro studies on their effectiveness it has been proved that they can be the best substitutes for synthetic chemicals in agriculture. Among the plant species in world, only 10% of the plant species have been reported to have pesticidal activities. Identification of such plant species and production of plant-based formulation is most essence for economic and eco-friendly management of plant diseases. Therefore, having a better understanding of these alternative pesticides could be beneficial for engaging in sustainable agriculture, especially given that they are less dangerous, practical from an economic standpoint, simple to use and capable of managing pests and pathogens in both fields and stores (postharvest). The review is subjected to study the efficacy of botanical extracts for the management of crop diseases as a better alternative to the chemicals and it summarizes the findings from previous researches

Evaluation of Some Botanical Extracts and Chemical Insecticides against Cabbage Aphids, Brevicoryne brassicae L. (Hemiptera: Aphididae) on Cabbage (Brassicae oleracea) in West Shoa of Oromia, Ethiopia

Cabbage is Ethiopia's second most significant vegetable crop after red pepper (Capsicum spp), although its yield and yield components are influenced by a variety of factors, including cabbage aphids, which are a major pests in most of Ethiopia's cabbage-growing areas. This study was conducted to evaluate a newly introduced chemical insecticide (Kanthion 50% E.C), and locally available botanicals. Each treatment was replicated three times and the entire setup was arranged in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) under field conditions. In the field, among the botanicals tested, N. tabacum, A. sativum, and lemon extract resulted in the highest percentage of nymphs and adult mortality greater than 65% within three days after application. In the field, non-treated control plants showed low yield as compared to the chemical, and botanical insecticide. The highest fresh weight (3.01 kg) was obtained from plants treated with Kanthion 50% E.C. This study indicates that Kanthion 50% E.C, N. tabacum, A. sativum, and Citrus limon could be recommended as an alternative management option against Brevicoryne brassicae (L) under field conditions.

Biostimulatory Impacts of Seed Priming through Botanical Extracts on Crop Production: A Critical Review

Rapid human population increase, food scarcity, and climate change are some of the global challenges in the current scenario. Among these, climate change adversely impacts crop production by creating abiotic stresses such as drought, salinity, and metal toxicity. Seed emergence, the critical stage in crop development, is highly vulnerable to these abiotic stresses. Therefore, short-term approaches to increase seed germination and the initial growth of plants were investigated in advance as a solution. Seed priming is indeed a pre-sowing treatment of seeds. It is a technique used to enhance the germination and early growth of seeds by exposing them to controlled hydration and sometimes other treatments before planting. Seed priming considered a low-cost, eco-friendly, and sustainable technique to promote seed germination and the initial growth of plants. Though various priming methods are available, this review discusses only botanical extracts (both seaweed and plant extracts) used as priming agents in seed priming. Among the seaweed extracts, green and brown algae species such as Ascophyllum nodosum, Sargassum spp., and Ulva spp. enhanced the crop performances even under stress conditions. In addition, leaf extracts derived from drumstick (Moringa oleifera) and neem (Azadirachta indica) are widely used to increase the crop production under stress and non-stress environments. Furthermore, in this review discussed about priming mechanism, different extraction methods and bioextracts behavior under diverse agroecosystems are discussed in detail.

Plant‐Based Products as Control Agents of Stored Product Insect Pests: Prospects, Applications and Challenges

Stored product insect pests pose a significant threat to global food security and economic stability, as they cause substantial damage to stored grains and other food commodities. Traditional pest control methods often rely on chemical insecticides, which can have adverse effects on the environment, human health, and food safety. In light of these concerns, there is growing interest in exploring sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives for managing stored product insect pests. This abstract highlights the potential of plant-based products as a viable and environmentally friendly approach to control stored product insect pests. Plant-based products, such as botanical extracts and essential oils, are derived from various plant sources and have shown promise in repelling, deterring, and even killing insect pests. These products offer several advantages, including biodegradability, reduced chemical residues, and minimal harm to non-target organisms. This review summarizes recent research on the efficacy of plant-based products against a range of stored product insect pests, including but not limited to beetles, weevils, and moths. It discusses the mechanisms through which these products exert their pest control effects, such as disrupting insect behavior, affecting their reproduction, or inducing mortality. Moreover, the potential synergistic effects of combining plant-based products with other pest management strategies, like hermetic storage and modified atmospheres, are explored. In addition, this abstract examines the challenges and limitations associated with the use of plant-based products in pest management, including issues related to formulation, stability, and the need for further research to standardize application protocols. The economic feasibility and scalability of plant-based pest control methods are also considered. The findings presented in this abstract emphasize the importance of incorporating plant-based products into integrated pest management strategies for stored product insect pests. These products have the potential to contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly approach to safeguarding global food reserves, while minimizing the risks associated with chemical pesticides. Further research and collaboration between the scientific community, agricultural industry, and policymakers are essential to harness the full potential of plant-based products in the fight against stored product insect pests.

COMPARATIVE EFFECT OF SOME BIO-PESTICIDES ON THE MANAGEMENT OF AFRICAN PINK STEM BORER, Sesamia calamistis (Hampson) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) ON SWEET CORN (Zea mays var. saccharata L.)

The study was conducted at Institute for Agricultural Research (IAR) horticultural garden Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria under irrigation in two dry seasons (2019 and 2020). The region is located at Latitude11º11'1N and Longitude7º38'E. The research was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of two microbial pesticides: Emamectin benzoate and Beauveria bassiana, two botanical extracts: Karanjin from Pongamia glabra and Azadirachtin (Azadirachta indica), one synthetic insecticide: Lion Guard EC (with Cypermethrin 3% and dimethoate 25%) which served as Standard check. S. calamistis larvae were mass produced in the Insect Rearing Laboratory of the Department of Crop Protection using artificial diet to carry out field infestation. On the field, the treatments involved three maize varieties; Sweet Corn Yellow, Sugar King F2 and SAMMAZ 52 and also the five (5) pesticides with untreated control laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) in split plot with three replications on a plots size of 9m2 (3 m x 3 m). Leaf damage, dead hearts, cob damage, exit holes, lodging, stem tunneling and yield ha-1 were measured. The data was subjected to ANOVA using SAS 9.0 and the means were separated using Student Newman Keul’s (SNK). Azadirachtin with 1.53, Karanjin with 2.22, Emamectin 1.48 and B. bassiana 1.42 larval mortality on the field after treatment application. Azadirachtin, Karanjin, Emamectin and B. bassiana reduced dead heart incidence by 46%, 20%, 51% and 52% respectively when compared with control in which 60% dead hearts incidence was recorded. Azadirachtin, Emamectin and B. bassiana were very effective in suppressing S. calamistis population, mitigated its ability to cause serious damage to the leaves, hearts, stem and cob of the maize and produced higher when compared with control. Even though Karanjin was less effective than the other three, it was better than control treatment. Azadirachtin can be applied at the rate of 0.44 Lha-1 and Karanjin at the rate of 0.5 Lha-1 to control of S. calamistis on sweet corn. B. bassiana and Emamectin benzoate can be applied at the rate of 0.25 Kgha-1 and 3 Kgha-1 to manage of S. calamistis.

The use of stinging nettle tea (Urtica sp.) to control Aulacorthum solani and Macrosiphum euphorbiae on Ranunculus asiaticus

ABSTRACT Natural and environmental-friendly approaches to control pests and diseases in horticultural production systems are showing an increasing trend. Biological alternatives, such as botanical extracts and basic substances, show promise in the reduction of the necessity for conventional plant protectants. In ornamentals, less is known about the usage, behaviour and potential of botanicals and basic substances for plant protection. In two trials, we investigated the effect of a weekly foliar spray of an aqueous extract of nettle (Urtica sp.; dried material 15 g · L–1) on two aphids, Macrosiphum euphorbiae and Aulacorthum solani. Experiments were conducted in the greenhouse with Ranunculus asiaticus as hostplant. The Urtica tea and azadirachtin (NeemAzal-T/S) as a standard used in common horticultural production were compared with the water control. Both previously infested and noninfested plants were built up to examine the effect on aphid population growth and migration. As a result, we showed that both treatments, Urtica tea and azadirachtin, reduce the aphid density significantly in comparison with the water control, although the effect of the Urtica tea was not as substantial as that of azadirachtin. Contrarily, treatments could not prevent aphid migration on previously noninfested plants. The study demonstrates that the basic substance Urtica tea can be suitable for the reduction of aphid pests in ornamental plant production, and thus, reduce the amount of synthetic plant protectants in horticulture.

GROWTH RETARDER EFFECTS OF PROSOPIS CINERARIA EXTRACTS ON PRE-ADULT STAGES OF ADZUKI BEAN WEEVIL CALLOSOBRUCHUS CHINENSIS

A study was conducted to evaluate the possible effects of Prosopis cineraria botanical extracts on Callosobruchus chinensis development. To stop the test pest from invading green gram seeds, extracts from the bark, fruit, and leaves of the plant P. cineraria were investigated as remedial treatments. In this study, the term "rate of development" refers to the amount of time it takes for a pest insect to emerge as an adult. The effectiveness of the botanical preparations was assessed in terms of the adult insects' delayed emergence from the infected seeds. When compared to control groups, which had a mean rate of development of 26 days, the treatment with plant extracts dramatically accelerated C. chinensis pace of development. A 39.67-day maximum was recorded when using 10% bark aqueous extract. The rate of insect development was also slowed down by all 10% preparations, 5% aqueous leaf extract, 5% aqueous suspension, and 5% aqueous bark extract. Based on the promising study results, it was determined that this tree's leaf extract, which is widely accessible in the dry regions of the Indian subcontinent, might be utilized as a cheap, safe, and convenient grain protectant, particularly for domestic usage.

Invitro analysis of antifungal effects of botanicals on sclerotinia sclerotiorum causing white mold disease

White mold, Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, is a devastating fungal plant pathogen that has affected many crop species worldwide. Using chemicals to control the disease has been practiced over the years, whose prolonged application has negatively impacted the environment, thus finding an organic solution is crucial. The analysis quantifies the effect of 5 different local plants that have been proven to have fungicidal properties; Artemisia vulgaris L., Azadirachta indica L., Zingiber officinale Roscoe, Allium sativum L., and Lantana camara L. Poisoned food technique was used to study the inhibition effect, carried out by inoculating and growing the fungus on PDA media infused with botanical extracts. The data of mycelial mat diameter was recorded till the control plates were fully occupied. The growth-inhibiting capacity was found as 100% by Allium sativum, 28% & 43% by Azadirachta indica, 22.44% & 44% by Zingiber officinale, and 16.33% & 8.55% by Lantana camara at 10% and 20% concentrations respectively. Only a slight difference between the overall inhibition effect of the two concentrations was found with 37.22% inhibition by 20% concentration and 33.38% inhibition by 10% concentration. No inhibition effect was observed from Artemisia vulgaris which could be due to heat neutralization of the active constituent during sterilization. Further research needs to be conducted using the botanical with different sterilization techniques. This in-vitro study identified garlic as a critical antifungal alternative to conventional fungicides. Field experiments need to be done to prove its effectiveness.

Bioactivity of Allium sativum essential oil-based nano-emulsion against Planococcus citri and its predator Cryptolaemus montrouzieri

Botanical extracts, in particular essential oils (EOs), could be the ideal candidates for the development of biopesticides as an alternative to synthetic pesticides. However, some limitations of EOs (high flammability, volatility, degradability, poor solubility in water) prevent their use under real operational conditions. Nanotechnologies are useful tools to overcome the above-mentioned limitations of these natural substances. Furthermore, encapsulation in nano-delivery systems (nanoparticles and nano-emulsions) can improve the functional properties of EOs. In this context, this study aimed to develop a highly stable, concentrated garlic nano-emulsion (15%) and to evaluate the acute toxicity with different exposure routes towards Planococcus citri and its predator Cryptolaemus montrouzieri. First, garlic EO was used to develop a nano-emulsion (15% EO; 5% Tween 80; 80% water) using a high-pressure microfluidizer; then both the crude EO and EO in nano-emulsion were chemically investigated by Solid Phase Microextraction-Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (SPME-GC-MS) technique. The nano-emulsion was physically characterized by dynamic light scattering analysis over time (24 h, 3 months and 1 year after preparation) and used in bioassays involving both the target and non-target organisms. Results showed that the garlic EO consisted of over 95% sulphur compounds with diallyl disulphide as the most abundant component, and the developed nano-emulsion remained stable even after 1 year, with droplets’ dimension within the nanometric range (221.4 nm). The nano-formulation was effective against the target pest after 48 h from the treatment (Direct: LC90 = 0.967%; Indirect: LC90 = 1.088%), while it had no effect on C. montrouzieri. These promising results highlight the potential of garlic-based nano-emulsion as effective and environmentally friendly insecticide for pest control.

Phytochemical Screening and Analysis of Antioxidant Activity from The Botanical Extract of The Plant Martynia Annua

Medicinal plants, enriched by nature with potent compounds, hold great promise in developing natural drugs with minimal side effects. This study focuses on Martynia annua, a plant species renowned for its medicinal potential. We aimed to identify and quantify phytochemicals in its leaf extracts and evaluate their in vitro antioxidant activity. Methanol, hexane, and water were used as solvents for extraction. Qualitative analysis revealed a range of pharmacologically active phytochemicals, including alkaloids, carbohydrates, glycosides, saponins, proteins, amino acids, phenols, fixed oils, and terpenoids. Methanolic extract exhibited the highest diversity, with eight distinct compounds. Quantitative analysis showed that methanolic extract contained the most phenols (0.5 mg/g) and carbohydrates (12 mg/g), while hexane had the highest flavonoid content (319 mg/g), and aqueous extract displayed the most protein (53.57 mg/g). Antioxidant assays demonstrated the superior performance of methanolic extract, with maximum inhibitory percentages of 92.99% (DPPH), 94.28% (FRAP), 76.11% (ion chelating), and an IC50 value of 52.17 µg/ml, indicating its remarkable antioxidant potential. These findings underscore Martynia annua as a valuable source for phytochemicals with significant antioxidant properties, particularly in the methanolic leaf extract, holding promise for future therapeutic developments."

Effect of Botanicals on Fall Armyworm and Predators in Sorghum Ecosystem

The present field experiment was conducted at Agricultural College Farm, Bapatla during kharif (June-November), 2019 to know the impact of botanicals against fall armyworm, S. frugiperda and their natural enemies (coccinellids, spiders and predatory bugs) in the sorghum ecosystem. Among the botanicals, the highest population reduction of FAW egg masses and larval population was recorded in NSKE @ 5% (71.43 and 60.87%, respectively), green chilli pod extract @ 5% (61.90 and 54.35%, respectively), neem leaf extract @ 5% (69.05 and 45.65%, respectively) and garlic bulb extract @ 5% (52.38 and 54.35%, respectively) treated plots. The botanicals that are used in the experiment were found safe from natural enemies. The maximum population of natural enemies i.e., coccinellids, spiders and predatory bugs was recorded in pongamia leaf extract @ 5% (0.16, 0.22 and 0.10 plant-1, respectively) whereas, the least was observed in emamectin benzoate 5 SG @ 11 g a.i. ha-1 (0.02, 0.02 and 0.01 plant-1 respectively) treated plots. The emamectin benzoate 5 SG @ 11 g a.i. ha-1 presented an adverse effect on natural enemies whereas no or few natural enemies were observed compared to botanical extracts. Therefore, it is recommended that spraying of botanicals has to be done four times at weekly intervals to keep FAW populations below economic injury level until crop maturity and these treatments were also found safe to natural enemies of FAW.

Formulation, Dosage, and Exposure Time of Natural Substances in Controlling Aedes aegypti Larvae

The incidence of vector-borne diseases in Indonesia, particularly Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF), continues to escalate. This surge correlates with climate change, the extreme transition from hot to rainy seasons. The use of synthetic chemicals for control measures can also poses environmental risks; hence, there is a necessity to explore natural control methods by harnessing the biodiversity of plant species within the environment. This research aims to assess the effectiveness of botanical extract mixture on the mortality of Aedes aegypti larvae. Method: This study utilizes an experimental design with a complete factorial random arrangement, which aimed at elucidating the effectiveness of plant extract as a bio-larvacide against Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. The effectiveness is measured through larval mortality rates based on a formulated equation, with dosage and exposure time as the research variables. The research was conducted in the Environmental Health Departement Laboratory at Health Polytechnic of Tanjungkarang from March to July 2023. The observational sheet serves as the instrument The collected data are processed and analysed using ANOVA to discern variations in larva mortality based on the formula, linear regression is applied to explore the influence of dosage and exposure time on larva mortality. Result: The result of this study exhibits that the most efficacious formulations to terminate larvaes were determined to be the 9th, 10th, and 11th formulations. Furthermore, an extended exposure time correlates with the escalating rate of larval demise. The statistical model prosperously accounts for 88,59% of the variability in the response pertaining to Aedes larval mortality. Conclusion: This study discerns that individually, the formula, dosage, and exposure time, also demonstrates an impact on larval death. This study unveils that an insecticidal formula derived from soursop leaves yields a higher mortality effect compared to formulations based on other materials.

Evaluation of the aphicidal activity of Salvia microphylla (Lamiaceae) aqueous extracts against Aphis pomi (Aphididae)

Abstract The aphid Aphis pomi represents an important pest of apples. The use of botanical extracts may be a safe and effective way to control this pest. In this context, we studied the aphicidal and repellent effects of aqueous extracts of Salvia microphylla against A. pomi. Five concentrations were tested on two main aphid parameters: mortality rate and percentage of repellency. The results showed that concentrations of 10% recorded the highest mortality rate (73.33%) and percentage of repellency (62.59%). After further field investigations, the use of S. microphylla may constitute a component of the integrated management of aphids.

PSIX-1 Impact of a Botanical Blend on Training Kennel Induced Stress in Dogs

Abstract Fear and anxiety in dogs can be elevated during transportation or visits to the veterinarian, groomer, and boarding or training kennels. The stress-related behaviors exhibited during these times can be a welfare concern to both pet, handler, and owner. In the case of training or grooming, the productivity of the session may be reduced due to unwanted stress related behaviors. Pet owners want to reduce stress during these events and are seeking natural botanical alternatives to medications. The botanical extracts in Cani-Calm (Probiotech International, Inc.) successfully decreased stress-related behaviors when fed to beagles for 11 days before a novel 1-hr car ride stress test. There has not been any investigation into the impact of these botanicals during a prolonged stress event similar to a boarding or training kennel. The objective was to evaluate Cani-Calm when offered during a 3-week training program at a boarding kennel. Fifty-one dogs of various ages, breed, and history were randomly assigned to either Control (no Cani-Calm; n = 26) or Cani-Calm (CC: 0.6 mL· kg BWT-1· day-1; n = 25). Cani-Calm was top-dressed on the morning meal daily. Trainers, blinded to treatment, assessed dog behavior and provided training timelines for each dog. Statistical analysis was performed using a Genmod analysis and Poisson distribution in SAS v9.3. Statistical significance was set at P < 0.05 and statistical trends were considered at 0.05 < P < 0.10. Length of the acclimation period before the onset of training due to stress-related behaviors was reduced (P = 0.001) in treated dogs compared with the control (Control: 1.57± 0.16 d; CC: 0.08 ± 0.71 d). There was no impact of treatment (P = 0.15) on percentage of dogs per group that required additional days of training beyond the planned program. However, there was an impact of treatment (P = 0.04; Control: 75%; CC: 96.3%) on the percentage of dogs that completed training earlier than the scheduled 3-week program. The results indicate a benefit of Cani-Calm during stressful events to decrease the display of behaviors that reduce training productivity and are a welfare concern for both animal and handler. Unlike the previous trial, during the current trial, there was no exposure to the botanicals before the stressful event; however, alterations in stress-related behaviors were demonstrated in both trials. Further research is warranted to evaluate time of exposure to the botanicals before the stress-event, and in larger populations.