Neem Oil Research Articles

Long-term organic farming impact on soil nutrient status and grain yield at the foothill of Himalayas

This study aimed to document the effects of the long-term organic farming (OF) on soil quality, agronomical parameters, crop productivity, and food grain yield compared to the conventional farming (CF) system. The crop used in this study is chickpea (Cicer arietinum), and the field was located at Pantnagar, India, in the foothills of Himalayas. The organic farming approach involved utilizing a blend of farmyard manure and vermicompost, combined with a biopesticide comprising neem oil and cow urine. Chickpea grain micronutrient analysis was done via atomic absorption spectrophotometry. It was found that the physicochemical properties of soil in the organic plot were improved compared to the conventional counterpart. At the post-harvesting stage, the organically managed field had higher soil organic carbon than the conventional field (OF-0.93± 0.05%, CF-0.75 ± 0.12%), higher available nitrogen (OF-317 ± 11 kg/ha, CF-240 ± 22 kg/ha), and more available phosphorus (OF-37.4 ± 1.3 kg/ha, CF-25.2 ± 2.5 kg/ha). The agronomical parameters of the chickpea crop were better under organic cultivation, with a significantly high nodule number, nodule dry weight, and grains per pod. Hence, the grain yield of the crop was better under organic cultivation, with the yield of 1,048 kg ha−1, whereas it was 896.5 kg ha−1 for conventional cultivation. The Fe and Zn contents of organically produced chickpea grains were almost double of their conventional counterpart. Therefore, organic cultivation led to better soil fertility, chickpea grain yield, and nutrient status of the crop. It will be beneficial for the nutritious and sustainable production of chickpeas in Himalayan regions.

Upholding Seed Quality with Mid-storage Invigoration Treatments in Rice (Oryza sativa L.)

The groundbreaking research investigated the impact of mid-storage invigoration treatments on seed quality parameters in rice. The experimental design used in the study was Completely Randomized Design with three replications. The experiment was conducted at the Regional Agricultural Research Station, Pattambi, Kerala Agricultural University. The objective of the study was to understand the effect of mid-storage invigoration treatments on seed storage under ambient conditions. An experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of ten different treatments on the quality of seeds, specifically the germination percentage, seed vigour index I, electrical conductivity, and mean germination time. The treatments tested were control- untreated seeds, hydration and dehydration treatment 1l/kg, ascorbic acid 10g/kg, calcium chloride 10g/kg, albizzia leaf powder 2g/kg, neem cake 5g/kg, neem leaf powder 2g/kg, neem oil 2ml/kg, red chilli powder 1g/kg and vayambu leaf powder 2g/kg. The rice variety Jyothi was used. Results showed that all the mid-storage invigoration treatments significantly improved the germination rate of the treated seeds when compared to the control under ambient storage conditions. Neem oil when used showed the highest germination percentage after five months of storage. In the last month of storage, neem oil showed a significantly higher vigour index which was comparable to hydration dehydration treatment and red chilli powder. Germination percentage and seedling vigour index I are positively associated with seed quality. Electrical conductivity and mean germination time are negatively correlated with seed quality. The least electrical conductivity was recorded in hydration dehydration treatment. Neem oil and hydration dehydration treatment had low mean germination time. Based on the research conducted, neem oil, hydration-dehydration, and red chili powder are the most effective treatments for improving the longevity of seeds. These eco-friendly and cost-effective mid-storage invigoration seed treatments can help farmers enhance the quality of their seeds and extend their storage life.

Comparative Efficacy and Economics of Selected Chemicals with Neem Oil against Mustard Aphid, Lipaphis erysimi (Kaltenbench)

The research was carried out at Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, Central Research Field, during Rabi season from november 2023- march 2024. The insecticide management experiment was conducted under Randomized Block Design (RBD) with the eight treatments and three replications by undertaking two spraying with fifteen-day intervals. The insecticides tested significantly reduced the pest population compared to control. Among the eight treatments evaluated for their efficacy in field condition against mustard aphids was recorded in treatment Neem oil 5% + Imidacloprid 17.8 SL (6.95) which was the minimum aphid population, followed by Imidacloprid 17.8 SL (8.46), Neem oil 5% + Acetamiprid 20% SP (9.78), Acetamiprid 20% SP (10.45), Neem oil 5% + Cypermethrin 10% EC (11.27), Cypermethrin 10% EC (11.55) and Neem oil 5% (12.01). The maximum aphid population was recorded in control plot (23.33 per 5 plant). Based on the results obtained in the investigation it is concluded that Imidacloprid 17.8SL with Neem oil and chemicals combined with neem oil could be utilized as a component in Integrated Pest Management of Lipaphis erysimi (Kalt.) on mustard. Similarly, the result revealed that the maximum C:B was recorded by treatment Neem oil 5%+ Imidacloprid 17.8% SL (1:2.77) followed by Imidacloprid 17.8% SL (1:2.67) and the minimum Cost Benefit Ratio was recorded in the control plot (1:1.27). The combination of Neem oil 5% and Imidacloprid 17.8 SL has offered cost-effective solutions that they effectively control aphid populations at lower costs. Thus, integrated pest management (IPM) approaches combining chemical treatments with cultural, biological, and mechanical controls may provide sustainable and cost-effective solutions in the long term.

Efficacy of Chemicals and Bio-pesticides against Mustard Aphid, Lipaphis erysimi (Kalt.) on Mustard

The present investigation was conducted during rabi season of 2023-2024 at Crop Research farm, NAI, SHUATS, Prayagraj using Randomized Block Design (RBD) method and eight treatments are replicated thrice. Results revealed that, among all the treatments Imidacloprid 17.8 SL recorded lowest population of aphid (55.67), followed by Spinosad 45% SC (66.51), Cypermethrin 10% EC (78.55), Sixer plus (94.49), Nisco MECH 333 (96.17), Neem oil 5% (99.44), and Beauveria bassiana (109.90) was less effective among all the treatments. While, the highest yield and cost benefit ratio was obtained with Imidacloprid 17.8 SL (18.15 q/ha.), (1:5.20) Followed by Spinosad 45% SC (17.85 q/ha.), (1:4.78), Cypermethrin 10% EC (16.35 q/ha.), (1:4.54), Sixer plus (14.98 q/ha.), (1:4.18), Nisco MECH 333 (14.58 q/ha.), (1:4.08), Neem oil 5% (13.03 q/ha.), (1:3.61), Beauveria bassiana (12.55 q/ha.), (1:3.48) Least monetary return was obtained with control(9.17 q/ha.), (1:2.74).

Bio Efficacy and Economics of Selected Biopesticides against Shoot and Fruit Borer [Leucinodes orbonalis (G.)] on Brinjal [Solanum melongena (L.)

The present investigation was carried out in a Randomized Block Design having 3 replications and 8 treatments (seven insecticides and one control) during kharif season 2023 conducted at the Central Research Farm, NAINI, SHUATS, Prayagraj (U.P). The order of effectiveness was observed in Chlorantraniliprole 18.5 EC (11.79), (8.01) > Spinosad 45 SC (13.52), (10.52) > Emamectin benzoate 5% SG (14.91), (11.41) > Beauveria bassiana 1% WP (16.00), (12.39) > Metarhizium anisopliae 1x108 CFU/gm (16.71), (13.46) > Neem oil 0.4% + Pongamia oil 0.1% (17.84), (14.79) > Neem oil 2% (20.03), (17.77) > untreated control plot (27.22), (32.12) based on percentage shoot and fruit infestation. While highest yield and benefit cost ratio was obtained in Chlorantraniliprole 18.5 EC (220.95 q/ha), (1:6.48) followed by Spinosad 45 SC (198.20 q/ha), (1:5.68), Emamectin benzoate 5% SG (170.87 q/ha), (1:4.98), Beauveria bassiana 1% WP (160.00 q/ha), (1:4.75), Metarhizium anisopliae 1x108 CFU/gm (140.69 q/ha), (1:4.13), Neem oil 0.4% + Pongamia oil 0.1% (125.50 q/ha), (1:3.68), Neem oil 2% (99.85 q/ha), (1:2.96). Lest monetary returns was obtained with untreated control plot (55.16 q/ha), (1:1.70).

Field Efficacy of Selected Chemicals and Biopesticides against Brinjal Shoot and Fruit Borer (Leucinodes orbonalis) on Brinjal (Solanum melongena) at Prayagraj

A field experiment was carried out at the Central research farm of Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology, and Sciences, located in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, during the kharif 2023-24. The experiment was designed following a randomized block design with three replications. It encompassed eight treatments: T1 - Neem oil 3%@ 30ml/lit, T2 - Metarhizium anisopliae @ 2.5ml/lit,T3 - Bacillus thuringiensis var. kurstaki @ 2gm/lit, T4 - Spinosad 45 SC @ 0.3 ml/lit, T5 - Emamectin benzoate @ 0.4 gm/lit, T6 - Chlorpyrifos 20 EC @ 2.5ml/lit, T7 - Chlorantraniliprole 18.5 SC @ 0.4ml/lit and T8 - untreated control. The objective was to assess the field efficacy of selected chemicals and biopesticides against Leucinodes orbonalis (Guenee) infestation on brinjal in Prayagraj. Two rounds of spraying was conducted at 15-days interval. Data on shoot and fruit infestation was recorded after each spraying and picking, including the percentage of shoot infestation. The results showed that the initial population of the pest before the spray exhibited a non-significant distribution. Following the spray, the findings demonstrated that T5 – Emamectin benzoate @ 0.4 gm/lit exhibited significant effectiveness against shoot and fruit borer, comparable to T7 – Chlorantraniliprole 18.5 SC, at 3, 7, and 14 days post-spraying. Following closely in efficacy were Spinosad 45 SC and Chlorpyrifos 20 EC. The highest cost benefit ratio was recorded- T5-Emamectin benzoate, followed by T7-Chlorantraniliprole 18.5 SC. The highest cost-benefit ratio was recorded in T5– Emamectin benzoate @ 0.4gm/lit followed by T7- Chlorantraniliprole 18.5 SC @ 0.4ml/lit and the lowest monetary return was observed with the control (T0).

Formulation of colloidal astringent solution using green tea and neem oil

This thesis explores the formulation of a novel colloidal astringent solution utilizing the synergistic properties of green tea and neem oil in skincare applications. Astringents play a crucial role in skincare, offering benefits such as pore tightening, oil control, and skin texture refinement. Green tea and neem oil, renowned for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties, present promising ingredients for enhancing skin health. The study begins with a comprehensive literature review, examining previous research on astringents, green tea, and neem oil. This review elucidates the individual properties and skincare benefits of these ingredients, providing a foundation for their integration into a colloidal solution. Relevant formulation techniques for colloidal solutions and astringents are also reviewed, informing the experimental approach. Experimental design focuses on formulating a colloidal astringent solution using green tea extract and neem oil, with the aim of harnessing their collective potency. Physicochemical properties of the solution, including pH, viscosity, particle size, and stability, are characterized to evaluate its suitability for skincare applications. Stability studies over time provide insights into the shelf-life and efficacy of the formulation. Results demonstrate the successful formulation of a colloidal astringent solution with optimized properties, showcasing the potential synergy between green tea and neem oil. Analysis of experimental findings highlights the formulation's efficacy in addressing common skincare concerns, such as pore refinement, oil control, and inflammation reduction. The study contributes to the growing body of knowledge in natural skincare formulations, offering insights into the development of innovative products that marry tradition with modern science. In conclusion, the formulation of a colloidal astringent solution using green tea and neem oil represents a promising approach to skincare, leveraging the therapeutic benefits of natural ingredients. Future research may explore clinical applications and further optimization of the formulation to maximize its efficacy and safety in diverse skincare routines.

Research on: Formulation and evaluation of polyherbal soap

People have been using medicinal plants for centuries to treat various ailments. The extract from the leaves, stems, and roots of these plants has been a natural remedy for many health issues. Commercial soaps often contain harmful ingredients, making natural herbal soaps a good alternative. Bacterial skin infections are common and require proper treatment and skincare. Some herbal plant extracts and oils have been found to have antibacterial properties. To address this, an antibacterial Polyherbal soap was formulated using ingredients like curcumin, neem, lemon juice, aloe vera, and almond oil. Neem leaves have traditionally been used to treat skin disorders due to their antioxidant properties. Lemon water has antibacterial and antioxidant capabilities that keep the skin healthy and rejuvenated. Aloe vera is known for preventing aging, reducing acne, and moisturizing the skin. Turmeric is beneficial for treating skin injuries and conditions like psoriasis. The Polyherbal soap was tested for its antibacterial activity and showed positive results. So, the use of medicinal plants in soap production offers cost-effective benefits with minimal side effects.

Comparative Efficacy of Chemicals with Biopesticides against Mustard Aphid, Lipaphis erysimi (Kalt.) on Mustard (Brassica juncea L.)

Research experiment was carried out under the field conditions during the rabi season of 2023-2024 at Central research field SHUATS Prayagraj, UP, India. The management of mustard aphid, Lipaphis erysimi (Kalt) was done using different treatments and benefit cost ratio of all the treatments were calculated. One spray was applied to protect the crop from Lipaphis erysimi using randomized block design with three replications. The observation of mustard aphid, Lipaphis erysimi 24 hours before (Pre-treatment) and 3rd, 7th, and 14th day after spraying (Post-treatment) were recorded for computing the per cent population reduction of pest. The different chemicals and biopesticides treatments revealed that Imidacloprid 17.8% SL (87.21%) shows the highest per sent reduction and was the most effective treatment followed by Cypermethrin 10% EC (84.31%), Nisco sixer plus (78.06%), Bacillus thuringiensis (73.02%), Beauveria bassiana (2×108 CFU/ml) (70.02%), Verticillium lecanii 1.15% WP (68.78%) the least per cent reduction was observed in Neem oil 5% EC (64.85%). The highest crop production, at 38.33 q/ha on average was recorded in Imidacloprid 17.8 SL with cost benefit ratio of (1:9.71) followed by Cypermethrin 10% EC 34.00 q/ha with (1:8.54) C:B ratio, Nisco sixer plus 31.66 q/ha with (1:7.22) C:B ratio, Bacillus thuringiensis 28.33 q/ha with (1:6.53) C:B ratio, Verticillium lecanii 1.15% WP 26.00 q/ha with (1:6.07) C:B ratio, Beauveria bassiana (2×108CFU/ml) 26.66 q/ha (1:6.04) C:B ratio, Neem oil 5% EC 21.66 q/ha with (1:4.64) C:B ratio and control 15.00 q/ha with (1:3.93) C:B ratio.

Antibacterial efficacy of neem oil fractions on clinical isolates of endometritic cows

Antibacterial efficacy of neem oil fractions on clinical isolates of endometritic cows

Efficacy of Certain Chemicals and Botanicals against Shoot and Fruit Borer, Leucinodes orbonalis (Guenee) on Brinjal (Solanum melongena L.)

The field trial was conducted at Central research farm , SHUATS, Prayagraj, U.P during Kharif season 2023 in randomized block design (RBD) with three replications consisting of eight treatment viz, Neem oil 2%, Chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC , Spinosad 45%SC, Flubendiamide 480 SC, Indoxacarb 14.5% SC, Pangomia + Flubendiamide, Neem oil + Flubendiamide, and untreated Control, The result revealed that all insecticidal treatments were significantly superior to reduce the incidence of shoot and fruit damage of brinjal compared to untreated control. The plot treated with Chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC recorded the lowest % of shoot and fruit damage 4.03% and 3.20 % in first and second sprays, respectively followed by spinosad 45% SC (4.43% and 4.15% respectively). The yield ranged from 85 to 225.50 q/ha in all treatments. The highest yield was recorded in Chlorantraniliprole 18.5 % SC (225q/ha) followed by spinosad 45% SC (190q/ha), Flubendiamide 480 SC (17.50q/ha), Indoxacarb 14.5 SC (160.35q/ha), Pangomia + Flubendiamide (140.33q/ha), Neem oil + Flubendiamide (132.40q/ha) and Neem oil 2% (120.50q/ha) as compared to control (85.00q/ha). When cost benefit worked out the best and most economical treatment was Chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC (1:10.3) followed by Spinosad 45% SC (1:8.5), Flubendiamide 480 SC (1:7.5), Indoxacarb14.5 SC (1:7.4), Pangomia + Flubendiamide (1:6.0), Neem oil + Flubendiamide (1:5.5) and Neem oil 2% (1:5.4) as compared to control (1:4.2).

Efficacy of Selected Biopesticides against Mustard Aphid, Lipaphis erysimi (Kalt.) (Hemiptera: Aphididae)

The present experiment was carried out at Central Research Farm, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, during Rabi season of the year 2023-2024under Randomized Block Design (RBD) with eight treatments and three replications. Single spray Twosprays were undertaken at fourteen days interval. Neem oil 5 %, imidacloprid 17.8 SL, Beauveria bassiana 1.15 % WP, Nisco Sixer plus, Metarhizum anisopliae, spinosad + neem oil 5 %, spinosad 45% SC were the treatments tested against the mustard aphid, Lipaphis erysimi (Kalt.). Results show that imidacloprid 17.8% SL was significantly superior over the other treatments showing 30.08/top 10cm twig and Beauveria bassiana being least effective recorded the highest number of aphids of 69.53/top 10cm twig of plant. The highest yield and cost benefit ratio was recorded from the plots treated with imidacloprid 17.8% SL (18.5 q/ha and 1:5.19) and the lowest from Beauveria bassiana (12.55 q/ha and 1:3.43).

Assessment of biorational larvicides and botanical oils against Culex quinquefasciatus Say (Diptera: Culicidae) larvae in laboratory conditions

Mosquitoes are known vectors that transmit deadly diseases to millions of people across the globe. The reliance on synthetic insecticides has been the sole way to combat mosquito vectors for decades. In recent years, the extensive use of conventional insecticides in mosquito suppression has led to significant pesticide resistance and serious human health hazards. In this light, investigating the potential application of biorational compounds for vector management has drawn significant attention. We, hereby, evaluated the efficacy of three microbial derivative biorational insecticides, abamectin, spinosad, and buprofezin, and two botanical oils, neem (Azadirachta indica A. Juss) and karanja oil (Pongamia pinnata Linn.) against the Culex quinquefasciatus under laboratory conditions. The fourth-instar C. quinquefasciatus larvae were exposed to different concentrations of the selected larvicides and lethality was estimated based on LC50 and LT50 with Probit analysis. All larvicides showed concentration-dependent significant effects on survival and demonstrated larvicidal activity against C. quinquefasciatus larvae. However, abamectin exerted the highest toxicity (LC50 = 10.36 ppm), exhibited statistically significant effects on C. quinquefasciatus larval mortality, followed by spinosad (LC50 = 21.32 ppm) and buprofezin (LC50 = 56.34 ppm). Abamectin caused larval mortality ranged from 30.00 to 53.33 % and 53.00–70.00 % at 06 and 07 h after treatment (HAT), respectively. In the case of botanicals, karanja oil (LC50 = 216.61 ppm) was more lethal (more than 1.5 times) and had a shorter lethal time than neem oil (LC50 = 330.93 ppm) and showed a classic pattern of relationship between concentrations and mortality over time. Overall, the present study highlighted the potential of deploying new generation biorational pesticides and botanicals in mosquito vector control programs.

Comparative Efficacy of Selected Insecticides against Helicoverpa armigera (Hubner) on Cowpea, Vigna unguiculata (L.) in Prayagraj, U.P., India

Comparative Efficacy of Selected Insecticides against Helicoverpa armigera (Hubner) on Cowpea, Vigna unguiculata (L.) in Prayagraj, U.P., India

Comparative Efficacy of Insecticides and their Combinations against Okra Shoot and Fruit Borer, Earias vitella (Fabricius)

The research was conducted on okra crop to check the efficacy of some insecticides and their combinations against okra shoot and fruit borer, Earias vittella (Fab.). The study was carried out during kharif 2023 at Central Research Farm of Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj (U.P.) with eight treatments including untreated check which were replicated thrice. All the treatments were found to be superior over untreated control, neem oil 3%, spinosad 45 SC, cypermethrin 25 EC, profenophos 50 EC, spinosad 45SC + neem oil 3%, cypermethrin 25EC + neem oil 3%, profenofos 50 EC + cypermethrin 25 EC were tested to compare the efficacy against Earias vitella and their influences on yield of okra. Here the best and the most economic treatment was profenofos 50 EC + cypermethrin 25 EC followed by cypermethrin 25EC + neem oil 3%, spinosad 45SC + neem oil 3%, spinosad 45 SC, cypermethrin 25 EC, profenophos 50 EC and the least effective treatment was neem oil 3%. The highest yield among the treatments was noticed in profenofos 50 EC + cypermethrin 25 EC (140quintal/hac.) and the lowest in neem oil 3% (75quintal/hac.) with cost benefit ratio 1:4.7 and 1:2.0, respectively.

Assessing the Effectiveness of Neem oil and Microalgae in the Management of Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.) Leaf Spot Caused by Alternaria spp.

The current study aimed to assess the effectiveness of neem oil and microalgae in controlling leaf spot caused by Alternaria spp. in cowpea (Vigna unguiculataL.). The research was conducted during the Zaid season of 2022 at the Central Research Field of the Department of Plant Pathology, SHUATS, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, using a Randomized Block Design with three replications and seven treatments. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was utilized to draw conclusions from the data. Leaf spot disease caused by Alternaria spp poses a significant threat to cowpea crops, resulting in yield losses and decreased plant vigor. An in vivo study was carried out to evaluate the impact of different concentrations of microalgae combined with neem oil at 1% on plant growth parameters and Disease Intensity (%). The application of microalgae @540 grams in various splits and neem oil @1% was done. Among all the treatments, T4 (Microalgae 48gms @5 DAS 96gms@15,45 DAS + Neem oil @1% showed promising results. Notably, the T4 treatment significantly increased plant height (84.63 cm) and the number of branches(10.83) at60DAS. Moreover, an increased numberof nodules per plant (21.44) was observed at 75 DAS, indicating improved root health and nitrogen fixation. Additionally, the treatment led to longer pod length (34.44 cm) in three pickings, suggesting enhanced yield potential. Furthermore, the combined application of microalgae and neem oil resulted in a significant reduction in disease intensity, with a notable decrease of 24.47% compared to untreated plants and those treated with chemicals (Bavistin). This indicates that the use of microalgae and neem oil together effectively suppressed leaf spot disease caused by Alternaria spp. in cowpea, thereby improving plant health and productivity. In conclusion, these findings underscore the potential use of eco-friendly alternatives like microalgae and neem oil for managing leaf spot disease in cowpea cultivation. Further research in this area is recommended for sustainable agricultural practices.

Efficacy of Biopesticides Against <i>Tetranychus Urticae</i> Koch Infesting Dodi <i>Leptadenia Reticulata</i>

A field experiment was carried out to test the efficacy of biopesticides against the red two spotted spider mite Tetranychus urticae Koch infesting dodi (Jivanti), Leptadenia reticulata (Ret.) Wight and Aruott. The findings revealed that azadirachtin 0.15 EC was found most effective incidence (3.19/ cm2 leaf) followed by neemastra (3.27 mites/ cm2 leaf), neem oil (3.34 mites/ cm2 leaf) and neem seed kernal extract (3.42 mites/ cm2 leaf). Beauveria bassiana 5% WP (5.31 mites/ cm2 leaf), ashwagandha 7.5% leaf extract (5.37 mites/ cm2 leaf) and Metarhizium anisopliae 1.15% (5.53 mites/ cm2 leaf) were moderate in their effectiveness. Maximum incidence was noticed from the leaves treated with desi cow urine (5%).

Comparative Study of Synthetic Insecticides with Biopesticides against Spotted Stem Borer, Chilo partellus (Swinhoe) on Maize (Zea mays L.)

Spotted stem borer, Chilo partellus (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) regarded as one of the most significant and prevalent insect pests of maize and its mystic aspect of feeding makes it challenging to control. Hence current study aims to evaluate comparative study of synthetic insecticides with biopesticides against Chilo partellus. Eight treatments viz., azadirachtin 10,000ppm, neem oil 3%, karanj oil 3%, neem oil 3% + imidacloprid 17.5%SL, karanj oil 3% + imidacloprid 17.5%SL, imidacloprid 17.5%SL, spinosad 45%SC and untreated control were tested under field condition in randomized block design with three replications. Among the treatments, lowest larval population of Chilo partellus per plant were recorded in karanj oil 3% + imidacloprid 17.5%SL (1.99) followed by neem oil 3% + imidacloprid 17.5%SL (2.42), imidacloprid 17.5%SL (2.71), spinosad 45%SC (3.17), neem oil 3% (3.73), karanj oil 3% (3.95) and azadirachtin 10,000ppm (4.44) were found superior over the untreated control (7.24). The highest yield was recorded in karanj oil 3% + imidacloprid 17.5%SL with 39.20 q/hectare and most economic treatment was imidacloprid 17.5%SL with highest cost benefit ratio (1:2.2). The lowest cost benefit ratio was recorded in untreated control (1:1.4).

Effect of neem oil biodiesel on the surface and structural integrity of carbon steel alloy: Chromatographic, spectroscopic, and morphological investigations

This study explores the impacts of neem oil biodiesel (BD), which was produced and characterized using GC–MS, FTIR, and UV–Vis spectroscopic techniques to elucidate pure and corrosion-product neem oil BD at room temperature (25 °C) and different immersion durations of 0, 28, 42, and 56 days. The OM and SEM were also employed to study the surface, structural integrity, and interphase interaction between the BD and the carbon steel (C1020) before and after immersion for different durations. The dominant fatty acid (FA) group in both pure and corrosion-product neem oil BD was C18, with a total composition of 72.3 %, hence determining the nature of the BD interaction with the carbon steel. The study revealed that carbon steel (C1020) was susceptible to attacks by neem oil BD, and the duration of immersion had substantial influence on the surface morphology and structural integrity of the steel. It is therefore anticipated that this study will significantly advance the field of alternative fuel research.

Bioprotective effects of different Plant Extracts and Essential Oils against Rhizopus stolonifer and Aspergillus niger causing Post Harvest decay in Grapes

The grapes (Vitis vinifera) are one of the largely consumed fruits in the world. Grape production in Pakistan has increased in the recent years. These are mainly consumed fresh or as dried raisins. Grapes are highly perishable, which makes them liable to rot during transport, storage, and marketing. The perishable nature of grapes leads to a considerable amount of post-harvest loss. The production and quality of grapes are adversely affected by several abiotic and biotic factors. Two different cities Pishin (Balochistan) and Faisalabad (Punjab) fruit market and stores were selected to collect rotten grapes. The fungal pathogens isolated were identified as A. niger and R. stolonifers. The pathogenicity of isolated pathogens was assessed at different temperatures (5, 20, and 30 °C) on the Thompson seedless grape variety. Infection and proliferation of fungi were found conducive at 30°C. As antifungal agents, three organic origin oils, neem, cinnamon, and clove oils with levels i.e., 500, 1000, 2000 ppm as well as marigold and neem extracts with diverse concentrations of like 12.5, 25, and 50% were employed. Among these organic compounds, cinnamon and clove oils at 2000 ppm exhibited 6.54% and 15.3% decay against A. niger, respectively. Meanwhile, against R. stolonifer, cinnamon and clove oils at 2000 ppm exhibited 12.22% and 6.74% decay, respectively. This study's findings focus on the effectiveness of both essential oils and plant extract in significantly delaying the decay process caused by fungal pathogens. The present study underscores the protective ability of the plant extracts and natural oils which could be a way forward for eco-safe management of post-harvest diseases of grapes before they reach the market.