Comparative chemistry and insect antifeedant action of traditional (Clevenger and Soxhlet) and supercritical extracts (CO2) of two cultivated wormwood (Artemisia absinthium L.) populations

A comparison between traditional extraction techniques (hydrodistillation and organic solvent extraction) and supercritical fluid extraction was made for two different populations and crops of Artemisia absinthium L., cultivated in the field and aeroponically. The composition of the extracts, volatile and non volatile oils, was analyzed by GC–MS and HPLC–DAD, respectively. The antifeedant and phytotoxic activity of the extracts was tested on insect pests (Spodoptera littoralis, Myzus persicae and Rhopalosiphum padi) and plants (Lactuca sativa and Lolium perenne). The supercritical extracts exhibited stronger antifeedant effects than the traditional ones (up to 8 times more active) with moderate selective phytotoxic effects on L. perenne root growth (<50% inhibition).

► Supercritical fluid extraction of A. absinthium compared to traditional techniques. ► Different populations, crops, and cultivation techniques of A. absinthium. ► Composition of extracts analyzed by means of GC/MS and HPLC/DAD. ► Supercritical extracts are more active than traditional ones against insect pests. ► Supercritical techniques feasible to develop environmentally friendly pesticides.