Insecticidal properties of Mentha species: A review

In view of the environmental, food-safety and health related issues associated with the application of chemical insecticides, growing emphasis is being laid on insect-pest control through plant resources. Mentha (mint) is one of the most common herb which has been known for its medicinal and aromotherapeutic properties since ancient times and in the last few decades, its insecticidal potential has also been investigated. The present review consolidates studies concerning insecticidal activity of Mentha against various stored grain pests and vectors. Insecticidal properties of different Mentha species are commonly inherent in its essential oils or plant extracts which is correlated with their chemical composition. Insect/pest control potential of various Mentha species has been evaluated by conducting adulticidal, larvicidal and growth/reproduction inhibition bioassays. Fumigant and repellent activity of Mentha essential oil has been studied against several stored grain pests (Tribolium castaneum, Sitophilus oryzae, Acanthoscelides obtectus, etc.) and vectors. Nevertheless, studies exploring larvicidal and growth/reproduction regulatory activity of Mentha, are relatively less. Among the vectors, mosquitocidal activity of several Mentha essential oils and their constituents is established. However, the studies directed towards formulation or product development and performance assessment in actual field conditions are lacking. Hence, although a ground has been set based on the lab scale research investigations, field studies on these aspects are warranted to ensure wide scale application.

► This work reviews a large body of work conducted on insecticidal properties of various Mentha species in the last few decades and presents a comprehensive picture to consolidate its standing as control agents for various stored grain pests and vectors/other insects.
► The studies have been systematically categorized based on the life stage of the target insects and attempts have been made to tabulate brief methodology and results to facilitate logical comparisons among various reports.
► An insight into the mechanism of action of Mentha essential oil and their components has been attempted based on the published work.
► The work also highlights factors preventing commercial application of Mentha species as insecticides despite ample lab scale data establishing the same.
► This happens to be the pioneering comprehensive review on the insecticidal activity of Mentha species.