Summary
This laboratory study examined the phytochemical profile and insecticidal properties of Sida acuta leaf oil extract as a potential eco-friendly alternative to synthetic insecticides for dengue vector control. Qualitative analysis identified high levels of alkaloids, steroids, and phenols; quantitative screening confirmed eight phytochemical classes. Larvicidal testing revealed modest mortality rates (1–3% at 72 hours) with no significant difference between treatments or collection times, suggesting limited practical efficacy at the tested concentrations.
UK applicability
The findings have limited direct applicability to UK farming or health policy, as Aedes aegypti does not establish populations in the United Kingdom and dengue transmission is not a domestic public health concern. The work may be relevant to tropical/subtropical public health programmes or to academic research on plant-based bioactive compounds, but would require substantial additional development and safety assessment before any practical application.
Key measures
Qualitative and quantitative phytochemical screening; larval knock-down within first hour; mortality rates at 24, 48, and 72 hours post-exposure; concentration-dependent response (ppb); comparison between morning and evening collection extracts
Outcomes reported
The study evaluated the phytochemical composition of Sida acuta leaf oil extract using qualitative and quantitative methods, and assessed its larvicidal efficacy against first-instar Aedes aegypti larvae at varying concentrations (12.5–125 ppb) over 72 hours post-exposure.
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