Article: A REVIEW ON MEDICINAL PLANTS AS BIOPESTICIDES

Article Category: Review articles

DOI: 10.7897/2277-4343.173106

Pages: 115-118

Author: Asha HN *

Abstract: Ayurveda is a life science rooted in harmony with Nature. Nowadays, the extensive use of chemical pesticides in agriculture has resulted in significant environmental and health issues, including soil degradation, water contamination, and toxicity to non-target organisms. These concerns highlight the urgent need for sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives. Natural products derived from medicinal plants possess pesticidal, antifungal, and antibacterial activities. Traditionally used plants such as Nimba (Azadirachta indica A. Juss), Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum Linn), Karanja (Pongamia pinnata Linn), Lasuna (Allium sativum Linn), and Nirgundi (Vitex negundo Linn) have demonstrated significant biopesticidal potential due to the presence of active Phytochemical constituents. These plant-based biopesticides are biodegradable, target-specific, and considered safer for humans and animals. This review explores medicinal plants as biopesticides, their preparation methods, and their role in pest management. It also highlights their advantages over conventional pesticides and their importance in promoting sustainable agriculture and environmental safety.

Keyword: Biopesticides, Environmental safety, Human health, Karanja, Lashuna, Nimba, Nirgundi, Tulasi, Vrukshayuveda.