Antimicrobial and insecticidal effects of essential oil and plant extracts of Myrcia oblongata DC in pathogenic bacteria and Alphitobius diaperinus

Abstract

The secondary metabolism products of plants have influenced great economic interest, given their chemical diversity and biological activities. Because of this, this study evaluates the phytochemical composition, antimicrobial activity, insecticidal, and antioxidant activity of plant extracts and oil of Myrcia oblongata. Saponins, steroids, triterpenoids, tannins, and flavonoids were detected. The extracts showed antimicrobial capacity on the tested microorganisms, except for the methanolic extract, which showed no activity for P. mirabilis and S. enteritidis. Regarding the analysis of antioxidant compounds, the hexanic, ethyl acetate and acetone extracts showed higher antioxidant activities and also higher insecticidal performance on Alphitobius diaperinus larvae, resulting in 80% adult mortality. The results reported here show that there may be a relationship between antioxidant potential and the insecticidal effect of Myrcia oblongata DC. The components present in both the extract and the oil can be used as natural alternative to synthetic compounds in the biological control of parasites and pathogenic microorganisms.

Phytochemistry, allelopathy and anticancer potentiality of Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal (Solanaceae)

“…Many therapeutics with low side effects are of natural origin (Newman and Cragg, 2007;Sabir et al, 2021;Santana et al, 2021). In this respect, plants are extensively exploited as a potential source for active components with high antitumor activity.…”

Copaiba oil and Neem extract can be a potential alternative for the behavioral control of Sitophilus zeamais

“…The effect of plant compounds affecting insects, especially Coleoptera, has been the objective of some studies (Silva and Martinez, 2004;Hori, 2004;Santana et al, 2021). Neem extract influences insects' behavior and physiology, including the effects on reproduction, reduced feeding, increased mortality, and the occurrence of abnormal and late ecdysis (Barbosa et al, 2002;França et al, 2017).…”

“…Sublethal effects can also be significant as lethal effects. The impact of natural products on insects is variable and can be toxic, repellent, attractiveness, cause sterility, modify behavior, development, or reduce food (Arnason et al, 1988;Formentini et al, 2016;Santana et al, 2021;Ilahi et al, 2021). Thus, this study's objective was to verify the effect of the sublethal dose on the behavior of S. zeamais for the extract of A. indica and oil of Copaifera sp.…”

Are Botanical Biopesticides Safe for Bees (Hymenoptera, Apoidea)?

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