PESTICIDAL PROPERTIES OF ESSENTIAL OILS OF LANTANA CAMARA L.

Abstract

Lantana camara Linn. (Verbenaceae) is an aromatic herb, commonly known as lantana or wild sage. It is expansively found in tropical Africa growing in the wild and planted around compounds as fences for demarcation due to its low herbivore pressure. L. camara is known in folkloric medicine and used as a remedy against many ailments. Therefore, its medicinal properties are studied widely. However, its biopesticidal properties neglected. Though, lately, L. camara essential oils (EOs) have gained much interest from a multidisciplinary assembly of researchers, looking into their secondary metabolites, biological activities and potential application in agriculture. The high interest in EOs as biopesticides has gained much acceptance globally due to its natural base compared to synthetic pesticides. This review aims to highlight some insights into the existing evidence-based applications of L. camara as validated by modern research. Several researchers have evaluated the chemical composition of L. camara EOs (leaves, flowers, and berries). The major constituents identified are monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes. The biological properties attributed to L. camara are insecticidal, antibacterial, antifungal, nematicidal, acaricidal, and fumigant activity against a wide range of agricultural and domestic pests and diseases. Evidence suggests that it is comparable to synthetic pesticide, and it is economically viable. This weed demonstrates the ability to become a cheaply harnessed biopesticide for pest management. Thereby improving agricultural productivity and as a source of revenue for resource-poor farmers. Applications of L. camara EOs through in-depth scientific studies to authenticate its properties are required to position L. camara plant as a new generation crop, for the development of value-added biopesticides.