Development of Water Extract-Based Bioherbicides for Sustainable Agricultural Systems: A Literature Review

Abstract

The extensive use of synthetic herbicides in modern agriculture has led to problems such as environmental pollution, reduced biodiversity, and increased weed resistance, encouraging the development of alternative weed control strategies. One promising approach is the use of bioherbicides derived from plant and weed extracts. This review aims to evaluate the potential of weed-based bioherbicides by examining candidate weed species, their bioactive compounds, allelopathic mechanisms, and implications for agricultural systems. The study was conducted through a literature review of relevant national and international publications from the last ten years. The findings indicate that several weed species, including Parthenium hysterophorus, Cyperus rotundus, Imperata cylindrica, Mikania micrantha, and Borreria alata, show potential as bioherbicide sources. These weeds contain allelopathic compounds such as phenols, flavonoids, alkaloids, terpenoids, and tannins, which can inhibit weed germination and growth by interfering with physiological and biochemical processes. Despite challenges related to field efficacy, formulation stability, and standardization, water-based bioherbicides offer practical advantages, particularly in terms of safety and compatibility with green chemistry principles. Overall, weed extract-based bioherbicides represent a viable option to reduce reliance on synthetic herbicides, although further research is required to optimize formulations and validate their performance under field conditions.