Brazilian researchers identify pest control properties on basil essential oil

The discovery was made by Brazilian scientists in the environmental sector at the Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation (Embrapa). When applying the essential oil of broadleaf basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) on common bean leaves, they recorded the death of about half of the caterpillars of the species Helicoverpa armigera and a lethality rate of 30% for Anticarsia gemmatalis, both of which attack different crops and are considered important agricultural pests. In fact, the specie Anticarsia gemmatalis is the main pest for soybean crops and is, therefore, known as the 'soybean caterpillar'.

The scientists carried out biological and behavioral assessments of the insects and identified the main compounds present in the oils. Basil's main characteristic is its very low toxicity to the environment and to agricultural crops, making it an option to reduce the use of pesticides. In addition to contributing to the environment, such trait also helps in reducing resistance of insects to these pesticides, a problem that has been growing in crops.