THE EFFICACY OF BASIL, PAPAYA, AND NEEM LEAVES EXTRACT AS ORGANIC INSECTICIDE

Abstract

Organic insecticides are generally less toxic compared to broad-spectrum conventional pesticides, which may adversely affect non-target organisms such as birds, insects, and mammals. Organic insecticides typically target specific pests and closely related species, are effective even in small quantities, and decompose rapidly, thereby reducing environmental pollution and exposure risks. Several herbal plants have been identified as potential organic insecticides for pest control. Basil is known for its bioinsecticidal effect on Aedes aegypti, as its leaves contain active compounds such as flavonoids, saponins, tannins, and essential oils that are toxic to mosquitoes. Papaya contains the active substance papain, which functions as a stomach poison that reduces the activity of aphids. Neem has insecticidal properties effective against sap-sucking and leaf-chewing insects, with azadirachtin acting as a growth regulator and feeding and oviposition deterrent. This study aimed to develop a homemade alternative organic insecticide using basil, papaya, and neem leaves. An experimental research design with a quantitative approach was employed to test the efficacy of basil, papaya, and neem leaf extracts as an alternative to commercially available insecticides. The design allowed for hypothesis development and the manipulation of measurable and controllable variables. Through experimental procedures, the researchers assessed the effectiveness of the combined leaf extracts in controlling insect populations by observing changes in insect activity and mortality over time. The results showed that the organic insecticide formulations containing basil, papaya, and neem leaf extracts exhibited varying durations of effectiveness at different concentrations. Trial 1, composed of 40% basil extract, 30% papaya extract, 30% neem extract, and 14 grams of Furadan, demonstrated the fastest time of effectiveness compared to the other formulated samples. Although the commercially available insecticide exhibited a faster time of effectiveness than the alternative insecticide, both the commercial and organic formulations were effective in controlling and killing insects. The findings demonstrated that basil, papaya, and neem leaf extracts possess the ability to control and kill insects. Both the commercially available insecticide and several concentrations of the alternative organic insecticide were effective; however, significant differences were observed in terms of the time required to achieve effectiveness. These results support the potential use of plant-based extracts as organic alternatives to conventional insecticides.