The Antiparasitic Effect of Custard Apple (Annona Squamosa) Leaves on Cat Fleas (Ctenocephalides Felis)

Abstract

Fleas are a disease-spreading parasitic insect, of which C. felis is the most widespread species. Many flea control methods exist, with synthetic parasiticides being the dominant response to flea infestations. As a consequence, ecological and human safety issues arise. To lessen the dependence on synthetic parasiticides, this study examines A. squamosa leaf extract as a botanical parasiticide for its well-documented antiparasitic activity. This study employed an authentic experimental research design using treatments with different concentrations of ethanolic A. squamosa leaf extract. Fleas were exposed to the leaf extract in test tubes. Rates of mortality and sedation were observed along with the time intervals of specimen death.

Regarding flea mortality and speed of the effect, the highest leaf extract concentration proved to be the most effective. The lower concentrations sedated the more fleas, as higher concentrations killed them too soon for sedation. Compared to commercially available flea spray, the highest leaf extract concentration yielded similar results. The findings of this study indicate that A. squamosa leaves can be used to treat flea infestations. A higher concentration of the leaf extract produces higher effectiveness in killing fleas. Parasiticide manufacturers may use this study as a basis to develop new products. Future researchers may test different methods, species, and dosages to contribute to understanding the antiparasitic properties of A. squamosa leaves.