The Effectiveness of a Combination of Basil (Ocimum Basilicum) and Lemongrass (Cymbopogon Citratus) Leaf Extracts as a Bioinsecticide Against Aedes Aegypti

Abstract

Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF) remains a major public health problem caused by dengue virus transmission through Aedes aegypti mosquitoes.Continuous usage of chemical pesticides can have detrimental effects on the environment and human health as well as cause insecticide resistance. As a result, natural-based bioinsecticides are required as substitute vector control techniques. Bioactive substances with possible insecticidal properties can be found in the leaves of lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) and basil (Ocimum basilicum). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of extracts from basil and lemongrass leaves on Aedes aegypti mortality at varying concentrations and exposure durations.This laboratory experimental study used a Posttest-Only Control Group Design. The treatments consisted of a control group and extract combinations at concentrations of 40%, 50%, and 60%. Mosquito mortality was observed at 15, 30, and 60 minutes after application. Data were analyzed using Kruskal-Wallis, Mann-Whitney, Friedman, and Wilcoxon tests with a 95% confidence level. The 60% extract concentration showed the highest mortality with an 7.80 ± 4.11 killed mosquitoes on average. After 60 minutes of exposure, significant changes between concentrations were discovered (p=0.037). Significant differences between the control and 60% concentration (p=0.026) and between the 50% and 60% concentrations (p=0.036) were shown by post hoc analysis. Mosquito mortality rose with longer exposure times, especially at the 60% concentration. The best treatment for Aedes aegypti as a bioinsecticide was a 60% concentration of extracts from basil and lemongrass leaves, which worked best after 60 minutes of exposure.