Abstract
The insecticidal bio-efficacy of Lamiaceae essential oils (LEOs) and its major compounds (MCs) were tested against mosquitoes (Aedes vittatus and Anopheles maculates) and agricultural pests (Spodoptera litura and Helicoverpa armigera). The naturally gained LEOs were confirmed through GC-MS analysis. The larval and pupal toxicity of LEOs and their major compounds LC50/LC90 value was calculated by standard protocol. A total of 54, 47 and 31 compounds were identified from M. officinalis, L. latifolia and O. majorana, respectively. The MCs of LEOs: (M. officinalis) 2,6-Octadienal, 3,7-dimethyl-, (Z)- (29.4354%) and Caryophyllene (20.2749%); (L. latifolia) 1,6-Octadien-3-ol, 3,7-dimethyl- (34.4992%) and 1-Cyclohexyl-2-buten-1-ol (c,t) (38.0339%); (O. majorana) Eucalyptol (57.1278%) and p-menth-1-en-8-ol (17.9683%). The LEOs and their MCs were tested individually against larvae and pupae of Ae. vittatus, An. maculates, S. litura and H. armigera, which produced maximum toxic effects. Predominantly, the MCs were safer to the non-target organisms and target-specific insecticidal properties against selected insect pests. On the whole, our findings highlight that LEOs and their MCs represent promising eco-friendly and target specific insecticidal activities.
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•The major compounds (MCc) are very exclusive bio-weapon on target insect pests.•The essential oils (EOs) of MCs were identified through GC-MS analysis.•MCs were admirable prime insecticidal agents observed under laboratory condition.•MCs are most relaiyable, target specificity and non-detrimental on non-target organisms.