A Review on the Mosquitocidal Effect of Azadirachta indica (A.) Juss., Eucalyptus globulus Labill., and Hyptis suaveolens (L.) Poit

Abstract

Mosquitoes are vectors for a number of infectious diseases, including malaria, dengue fever, Zika virus and chikungunya; hence, they pose a significant threat to public health globally. The rising incidence of insecticide resistance in mosquito populations as well as the environmental and health hazards associated with synthetic pesticides, has led to the demand for sustainable and ecofriendly insecticidal alternatives. Botanical insecticides have been suggested as viable alternatives to synthetic insecticides. However, they vary in their insecticidal efficacy, mode of action and toxicity to nontarget organisms. This study reviews available reports on the mosquitocidal properties of three medicinal plants; Azadirachta indica (neem), Eucalyptus globulus (eucalyptus), and Hyptis suaveolens (bush mint). It examines their efficacy against various mosquito life stages and highlights the active compounds responsible for the insecticidal properties of these. Furthermore, the limitations associated with the use of these plants for mosquito control are clearly outlined and recommendations are made on strategies to improve prospective bio-insecticidal products. Overall, the finding provided a foundation for developing plant-based insecticides that can be integrated into public health and vector control programs to sustainably reduce mosquito-borne disease transmission.