Work

Larvicidal Potential of Trattinnickia Burserifolia Mart. Essential Oil in Controlling the Malaria Vector in the Amazon

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Background: Among major public health problems, malaria stands out as a tropical disease caused by the Plasmodium protozoan, with mosquitoes of the Anopheles genus serving as its vectors. This disease affects a significant portion of the population, with the highest incidence in the Legal Amazon, a region responsible for 99% of cases. Although vector control strategies, such as the use of chemical insecticides, are commonly employed, mosquito resistance, environmental impacts, and risks to human health are driving the search for natural alternatives, including the application of essential oils. Objectives: This study investigates the larvicidal activity of Trattinnickia burserifolia Mart. essential oil against Anopheles darlingi. Methods: The essential oil was obtained through hydrodistillation, and its chemical composition was identified using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. The larvicidal assay followed WHO protocols, testing oil concentrations ranging from 20 to 100 µg mL−1. Results: Efficacy was evaluated after 24, 48, and 72 h to determine LC50, LC90, and other parameters. Chemical composition analysis revealed the presence of 40 compounds, primarily terpenes such as tricyclene, β-pinene, limonene, and α-pinene, which possess bioactive properties that contribute to vector control. The larvicidal activity test showed that LC50 decreased with longer exposure times, indica ting increased efficacy over time. After 72 h, the LC50 was 14.51 µg mL−1, classifying the essential oil as highly effective. Conclusions: Therefore, T. burserifolia Mart. essential oil represents a promising natural alternative for malaria vector control.

Source: Pharmaceuticals

DOI: 10.3390/ph18050604