Potential of Annona squamosa as Insect Repellent and Larvicide

a review on its larvicidal, oviposition deterrent and insect repellent potency

| Posted in: Science

Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Annona squamosa
The WJPR includes peer-reviewed publications such as scientific research papers, reports, review articles, company news, thesis reports and case studies in areas of Biology, Pharmaceutical industries and Chemical technology while incorporating ancient fields of knowledge such combining Ayurveda with scientific data.
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Subtitle: a review on its larvicidal, oviposition deterrent and insect repellent potency

Original source:

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Author:

Akanksha Garud, Navneet Garud and Mukul Tailang


World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:

(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)

Full text available for: Annona squamosa

Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research

Copyright (license): WJPR: All rights reserved


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Summary of article contents:

Introduction

Insects, especially mosquitoes, are significant vectors for various diseases such as malaria, dengue, and chikungunya, having a detrimental effect on human health and agriculture, especially in developing countries. The review highlights the potential of botanical insecticides, focusing on the plant Annona squamosa (custard apple), which has demonstrated larvicidal, oviposition deterrent, insect repellent, and insecticidal properties. As synthetic insecticides raise safety concerns, the quest for safer, plant-derived alternatives has gained momentum, encouraging further research into the medicinal benefits of various plant extracts like that of Annona squamosa.

Repellent Activity

Annona squamosa leaf extract has shown promising skin repellent activity against common mosquito species such as Aedes aegypti, Anopheles stephensi, and Culex quinquefasciatus. The studies observed a dose-dependent effect, with higher concentrations providing extended protection time against mosquito bites. Crude seed extracts have also exhibited significant repellent effects on termites, indicating Annona squamosa as a potential natural insect repellent for both terrestrial and aerial pests. The efficacy of the plant extracts emphasizes their potential application in natural pest control methods.

Larvicidal Activity

The leaf extracts of Annona squamosa have demonstrated potent larvicidal efficacy against mosquito larvae, particularly Aedes albopictus and Culex quinquefasciatus. Various extracts (ethanolic, methanolic, and acetone) revealed effective LC50 and LC90 values for larval mortality, indicating that they could serve as powerful agents in controlling mosquito populations. Furthermore, other studies have reported that the crude acetone extract of Annona squamosa seeds also exhibited substantial larvicidal properties, reinforcing the plant's versatility as a natural insecticide across different life stages of mosquitoes.

Oviposition Deterrent Activity

The oviposition deterrent activity of Annona squamosa leaf extract is particularly noteworthy. The extract significantly reduced the number of eggs laid by gravid females of Aedes aegypti, Anopheles stephensi, and Culex quinquefasciatus when tested at various concentrations. The highest concentration resulted in an impressive 99.6% reduction in egg-laying by Anopheles stephensi, highlighting the extract's capacity to disrupt mosquito reproduction. This feature suggests that Annona squamosa can be used strategically in integrated pest management programs, not only targeting adult mosquitoes but also limiting their breeding potential.

Conclusion

The review establishes the potential of Annona squamosa as an effective natural alternative to synthetic insecticides in controlling mosquito populations and other pests. The multifaceted roles of its extracts — from repellent to larvicidal and oviposition deterrent actions — underscore its relevance in sustainable pest management strategies. The ability to produce effective pest control methods using botanical derivatives could alleviate environmental concerns associated with chemical pesticides. Continued research is paramount to isolate the active compounds, evaluate their safety and efficacy in the field, and ultimately foster a shift toward eco-friendly solutions in pest control practices.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What are the main medicinal properties of Annona squamosa?

Annona squamosa possesses various medicinal properties including antioxidant, anti-diabetic, anti-tumor, and insecticidal activities. Its leaves, seeds, and bark contain active compounds that have been traditionally used for treating various ailments.

How does Annona squamosa act as an insect repellent?

The leaf extracts of Annona squamosa have shown significant mosquito repellent activity, protecting against species like Aedes aegypti and Anopheles stephensi for extended periods. The efficacy increases with higher extract concentrations.

What larvicidal effects does Annona squamosa exhibit?

Ethanolic and methanolic extracts of A. squamosa leaves demonstrate potent larvicidal activity against mosquito larvae with low LC90 values, making it an effective natural approach for mosquito control.

Can Annona squamosa deter mosquito oviposition?

Yes, leaf extracts of Annona squamosa significantly reduce egg-laying by gravid female mosquitoes, achieving up to 99.6% deterrence against certain species, indicating its potential in preventing mosquito breeding.

What traditional uses does Annona squamosa have?

Traditionally, Annona squamosa has been used to treat various health issues, including dysentery, ulcers, and respiratory conditions. Its leaves can be applied topically or prepared in infusions for medicinal purposes.

What challenges exist with using plant-based insect repellents?

While plant-based insect repellents like Annona squamosa are safer alternatives, their effectiveness can vary based on concentration and method of application. More research is needed to ensure safety and efficacy.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Potential of Annona squamosa as Insect Repellent and Larvicide”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.

1) Activity:
Activity refers to the effects or functions of a substance, particularly in the context of its biological impacts, such as larvicidal, insecticidal, or repellent activities of plant extracts. In the reviewed study, the activity of Annona squamosa against various insect species showcases its potential utility in pest management.

2) Cage:
Cage denotes an environment used in experimental settings to contain subjects, commonly used for observing behavior or effects of treatments in laboratory studies. In the context of mosquito repellent efficacy tests, the cage allows for controlled exposure to test subjects such as guinea pigs and mosquitoes, ensuring accurate results.

3) Akanksha (Akanksa, Akamksa, Akamksha, A-kamksha):
Akanksha refers to the name of the lead author of the reviewed study on Annona squamosa. This identifies the primary researcher and reflects the scholarly contribution to the field of pharmaceutical sciences, specifically regarding the plant's insect repellent and larvicidal properties.

4) Insect:
Insect represents a focal point in this study, being the target organism for the larvicidal and repellent properties of plant extracts. Insects, particularly mosquitoes, pose significant health risks by transmitting diseases, thus the development of botanical insecticides is critical for controlling their populations.

5) Water:
Water serves as an essential medium in experiments for diluting extracts and housing larvae in toxicity tests. The study highlights its role in facilitating the examination of the larvicidal effects of Annona squamosa's extracts on mosquito larvae when combined with controlled environmental conditions.

6) Species:
Species refers to the distinct biological classifications of organisms being studied, which in this case include various mosquito species such as Aedes aegypti and Anopheles stephensi. Understanding different species is crucial for determining the effectiveness of plant extracts in controlling specific pest populations.

7) Family:
Family here pertains to the taxonomic classification of plants and, in this study, signifies Annonaceae, the botanical family that includes Annona squamosa. This classification underlines the related characteristics shared among plants within the same family that may influence their biological activities.

8) Toxicity:
Toxicity indicates the degree to which a substance can cause harm to living organisms. In the context of the paper, evaluating the toxicity of Annona squamosa extracts is vital for ensuring safety and efficacy, particularly when considering their use as biocontrol agents against insect pests.

9) Disease:
Disease encompasses the various health conditions transmitted by insects, such as malaria and dengue, which are pertinent to this study. Understanding the connection between insect vectors and diseases highlights the importance of developing effective natural insect repellents and larvicides to protect public health.

10) Tree:
Tree signifies Annona squamosa, commonly known as custard apple, which is a small tree being studied for its beneficial properties. The morphological characteristics and the different parts of this tree (leaves, seeds, fruits) contribute to its applications in pest control and traditional medicine.

11) Phytochemical:
Phytochemical refers to the bioactive compounds found in plants. In this research on Annona squamosa, the presence of phytochemicals such as flavonoids, alkaloids, and acetogenins is crucial as they contribute to the plant's insecticidal and medicinal properties, offering insights into their mechanisms of action.

12) Ulcer:
Ulcer pertains to a wound or sore that may be treated with natural remedies derived from plants, including Annona squamosa. The study references traditional uses of the plant's leaves for treating ulcers, thus highlighting its medicinal potential alongside its insecticidal activities.

13) Blood:
Blood is mentioned in the context of mosquito feeding behavior, as mosquitoes require blood meals to reproduce. The link between mosquitoes and their need for blood underpins the significance of repellent studies aimed at reducing blood-feeding rates and disease transmission risk.

14) Relative:
Relative describes the relationship between different botanical classes or species within the same family or context. This term emphasizes the interconnectedness of various plant extracts and how they may share similar properties, enhancing understanding of the biological effects observed in the study.

15) Gwalior:
Gwalior is the geographical location associated with Jiwaji University, where the research team is based. It provides context for the local flora studied, drawing attention to the regional availability of Annona squamosa and the potential significance of traditional practices in pest management.

16) Science (Scientific):
Science refers to the systematic study of the natural world, which underpins the methodologies used in the research on Annona squamosa. The scientific basis for understanding the efficacy of plant extracts against insects is crucial for developing sustainable alternatives to chemical insecticides.

17) Powder:
Powder can refer to the form in which plant materials are processed for extraction in the study. Powdered leaves and seeds of Annona squamosa are utilized to create extracts, which are then tested for their insect repellent and larvicidal properties, demonstrating the preparation methods involved.

18) India:
India is the country where Annona squamosa is cultivated and traditionally used. Highlighting India links the plant’s local uses and cultural significance with the modern research efforts aimed at evaluating its insecticidal capabilities, illustrating the integration of traditional knowledge into scientific inquiry.

19) Glass:
Glass signifies containers used in laboratory settings, particularly during repellent tests or extraction processes. Glassware allows for observation and accurate measurement in controlled experiments, reflecting the methodical approach adopted in studying the effectiveness of Annona squamosa extracts.

20) Hair:
Hair pertains to one of the traditional uses of Annona squamosa seeds, which are noted for their effectiveness against lice. The relevance of hair here underscores the plant's potential applications not only in agriculture and public health but also in personal care products.

21) Soil:
Soil is a critical component in understanding the environmental impact of applying plant extracts, such as those from Annona squamosa. Testing the efficacy of crude extracts on soil as a medium for pest deterrence reflects the broader ecological considerations in integrated pest management.

22) Azadirachta indica:
Azadirachta indica, commonly known as neem, is another plant mentioned as a natural insecticide. Including neem in the discussion emphasizes the importance of utilizing various effective botanical alternatives for pest control, alongside Annona squamosa, to reduce reliance on synthetic chemicals.

23) Burning sensation:
Burning sensation refers to a symptom that Annona squamosa treatments may alleviate. Traditional uses in Ayurveda suggest the potential of this plant to cool and soothe, providing insight into the broader medicinal benefits linked with its insecticidal properties.

24) Agriculture:
Agriculture is the field concerned with cultivating plants for food and other products. The application of Annona squamosa extracts as insecticides intersect with agricultural practices, prioritizing sustainable and eco-friendly pest management strategies to protect crops while minimizing chemical runoff.

25) Developing:
Developing refers to countries or regions that are undergoing economic progress and may face challenges due to pest-related diseases. Highlighting this context underscores the importance of implementing cost-effective and accessible pest management options like natural extracts for public health improvement.

26) Depression:
Depression refers to a mental health condition which is occasionally linked to physical ailments or discomfort. Traditional practices often utilize Annona squamosa for various therapeutic purposes, demonstrating the plant's multifaceted benefits beyond its insect repellent and larvicidal properties.

27) Substance:
Substance describes the extracts or compounds derived from Annona squamosa. Identifying the substances with bioactive properties facilitates understanding of their effectiveness in pest control and relates to the broader context of natural products in pharmaceutical sciences.

28) Flavonoid:
Flavonoid denotes a class of plant secondary metabolites recognized for their health benefits, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Researching flavonoids within Annona squamosa emphasizes their role in the plant's biological activities, informing potential medicinal applications and insecticidal effects.

29) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is a traditional system of medicine originating in India that utilizes natural products for health promotion. The mention of Ayurveda indicates the historical context of using Annona squamosa for medicinal purposes, alongside contemporary research validating its therapeutic efficacy.

30) Cinnamon:
Cinnamon is another plant referenced for its insect-repelling qualities. Including cinnamon highlights the diversity of plant materials with potential insecticidal properties, encouraging exploration of various botanical sources to develop integrated pest management strategies, complementing findings from Annona squamosa studies.

31) Medicine:
Medicine encompasses the practices and substances used to maintain health and treat ailments. Annona squamosa's recognized medicinal properties connect the study to the historical context of using plant extracts in healthcare, bridging agricultural entomology and pharmaceutical applications.

32) Vomiting:
Vomiting is a symptom that can result from various ailments, which Annona squamosa is traditionally used to alleviate. Highlighting this effect ties back to the plant’s relevance in natural remedy practices, enhancing the understanding of its bioactive properties in diverse health contexts.

33) Fainting (Fainted):
Fainting represents a condition that is sometimes alleviated through natural remedies like Annona squamosa. The inclusion of this term illustrates the plant's broader applications in traditional medicine, emphasizing its historical significance in addressing various health concerns.

34) Hysteria:
Hysteria, a historical term associated with psychological distress, is mentioned in relation to traditional treatments involving Annona squamosa. This association underscores the plant's role in cultural practices and reflects the broader connection between botanical remedies and mental health support.

35) Burning (Burn, Burned, Burnt):
Burning in this context relates to sensations possibly treated by preparations from Annona squamosa. The medicinal properties associated with reducing burning sensations point toward the multifaceted therapeutic applications of the plant, emphasizing its importance beyond insecticidal uses.

36) Camara (Camará):
Camara refers to Lantana camara, another plant studied for its pest repellent properties. Including Camara in the discussion emphasizes the variety of plant sources being researched, which can complement or enhance the efficacy of Annona squamosa in managing insect populations.

37) Muslin:
Muslin refers to the fabric used in the experimental cages for mosquito observation. Its application illustrates the practical methodologies employed in the study to ensure accurate exposure conditions, vital for assessing the effectiveness of various plant extracts in repelling mosquitoes.

38) Forest:
Forest signifies the natural habitat where Annona squamosa may be found, linking the study to ecological contexts. Understanding the habitat allows researchers to recognize environmental factors that could influence the biological activity of the plant's extracts and their potential efficacy as insecticides.

39) Garlic:
Garlic is highlighted as another plant known for its repellent properties against insects. Including garlic underscores the significance of diverse botanical extracts in pest control research, promoting a holistic understanding of effective natural alternatives alongside Annona squamosa.

40) Medium:
Medium pertains to the substance used to prepare solutions for testing the effects of extracts in experiments, such as ethanol or water. The choice of medium is critical for ensuring the solubility of bioactive compounds, thus impacting the efficacy of the plant extracts being studied.

41) Animal:
Animal signifies the subjects used in various tests, such as mosquitoes and guinea pigs. Recognizing the role of animal models in research underlines the ethical considerations and scientific protocols followed to validate the effectiveness of natural insect control methods.

42) Killing (Killed):
Killed refers to the outcome observed in studies testing the effectiveness of Annona squamosa extracts on insect larvae and adults. This term emphasizes the significant impact of the plant extracts in achieving pest management objectives, illuminating the practical applications in the field of entomology.

43) Hindi (Himdi):
Hindi is the language in which common names of plants like 'sharifa' (custard apple) are recognized within India. This highlights the cultural significance and local knowledge tied to Annona squamosa, reinforcing the importance of traditional uses in understanding its potential applications.

44) Field:
Field denotes the practical setting where natural experiments take place, allowing for the observation of the effectiveness of Annona squamosa extracts under real-world conditions. Field studies complement laboratory findings, offering insights into the ecological implications of using plant extracts for pest control.

45) Death:
Death relates to the endpoint of effectiveness in studies observing larvicidal and insecticidal activities. Monitoring mortality rates provides critical data on the efficacy of Annona squamosa extracts, informing potential applications in integrated pest management systems to protect human health.

46) Study (Studying):
Study refers to the systematic investigation into the properties of Annona squamosa and its extracts. This highlights the scientific inquiry behind plant-based pest control and underscores the importance of thorough research in validating traditional uses through modern methodologies.

47) Pupa:
Pupa signifies a developmental stage in the life cycle of insects such as mosquitoes, which is critical for assessing the effectiveness of larvicidal agents. Understanding the impacts on pupae helps researchers develop effective pest management strategies targeting different life stages of the insects.

48) Pine (Pimte):
Pine is mentioned as a plant with known insect repellent properties. This inclusion expands the discussion of various natural alternatives available for pest control, indicating the potential for combining different botanical extracts to enhance effectiveness alongside findings from Annona squamosa.

49) Pose:
Pose refers to the challenge or problem presented by insects, particularly disease transmission and agricultural damage. Understanding the obstacles posed by insects emphasizes the need for effective, sustainable solutions, such as utilizing natural extracts to mitigate these issues.

50) Worm:
Worm traditionally highlights organisms that can be pests or vectors in various contexts. The mention of worms implies a broader understanding of pest management, reinforcing the relevance of plant extracts like Annona squamosa for controlling multiple types of agricultural pests.

51) Salt (Salty):
Salt is referenced in the context of traditional remedies involving Annona squamosa’s leaves. Its inclusion reflects the historical use of natural substances in folk medicine, emphasizing how local practices influence the understanding of the plant's medicinal and pest control properties.

52) Post:
Post relates to the evaluation or discussion following research findings. It signifies the iterative nature of scientific inquiry where initial results prompt further exploration into applications and implications, particularly with respect to the utilization of Annona squamosa extracts.

53) Drug:
Drug signifies the therapeutic potential of plant extracts, indicating their role in modern medicine. The study on Annona squamosa contributes to the broader discourse on utilizing natural products as drug sources for mitigating health issues related to insect-borne diseases.

54) Male:
Male pertains to the gender of mosquitoes, which are responsible for blood-feeding behaviors causing disease transmission. Identifying males in studies is significant for understanding insect behavior and assessing the effectiveness of repellent strategies targeted toward both males and females in pest control.

Other Science Concepts:

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