Bioinsecticidal potential of medicinal plants in the control of Aedes aegypti

Alvia-Saldarriaga C.A.; Reyes-Tello C.A.; Vilchez-Cáceda H.A. · Revista Cubana de Medicina Militar (2025)

Resumen

Introduction: Dengue is a highly prevalent disease, largely due to the resistance of its vector, Aedes aegypti, to synthetic insecticides. Therefore, medicinal plants emerge as a promising alternative for its control. Objective: To describe information on the bioinsecticidal potential of medicinal plants for the control of Aedes aegypti. Methods: A review was conducted in Scielo, Lilacs, Dialnet and Scopus, using the terms “larvicidal activity” OR “biocidal activity” OR “insecticidal activity” AND “Aedes aegypti”. Only original articles from the last 5 years with open access, in Spanish and English, were selected. Development: The use of extracts and essential oils from medicinal plants in the control of Aedes aegypti is highlighted, which evaluate the vector at different stages. Phytochemical compounds, such as terpenes, sesquiterpenes and phenolic compounds, showed high bioinsecticidal efficacy, supported by mortality rates and relevant lethal concentrations. The synergistic action between these components positions medicinal plants as sustainable alternatives to conventional insecticides. Although the results are based on in vitro studies, they consolidate a scientific basis for the development of ecological vector control strategies. Conclusions: Medicinal plants represent a promising resource for the control of Aedes aegypti, with evidence of their effectiveness and sustainability. However, their application in field conditions needs to be validated for integration into vector control programmes.

Instituciones: Universidad Científica del Sur; Universidad de Ciencias y Humanidades