Chemical composition and insecticidal properties of some aromatic herbs essential oils from Algeria

The biological effects on Sitophilus granarius were evaluated for three aromatic herbs essential oils: Foeniculum vulgare, Rosmarius officinalis and Lippia citriodora. Stored grain pests were currently controlled by chemical pesticides. This control method leads to pollution of the environment and intoxication of consumers. Essential oils of aromatic plants are more considered as good control alternative tools. Filter papers treated with 5, 50 and 500 μl of test oil were placed in the bottom cover of 1 l plastic bottle. The insects, 50 adults per bottle, were exposed for 1–5 days. Cumulative mortalities were determined 24 and 120 h after treatment. All treatments were replicated five times. The components of the essential oils were identified through GC and GC–MS. The identity of the constituents was confirmed and their relative proportions determined. The results indicate that these natural products may find potential application as useful, environmentally safe insect control and crop protectant agents.

► We identify the chemical composition of fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) essential oils.
► We identify the chemical composition of verbena (Lippia citriodora) essential oils.
► We identify the chemical composition of rosemary (Rosmarius officinalis) essential oils.
► We evaluate the fumigant activity of the three essential oils tested on Sitophilus granarius.
► These natural products may find potential application as crop protectant agents.