Development of herbal insectcide from cedrus atlantica against house flies

Abstract

ABSTRACT Background: Musca domesticaLinnaeus (house flies)(family Muscidae) are a general health hazard worldwide.Insecticides such organophosphates, organochlorides and pyrethroid such as permethrin are being used for house fly control. However, house flies can develop resistance to these pesticides and health and environmental risks as associated with these compounds, thus there is need to continue to research for alternative methods of fly management. And essential oils are potential alternatives that are environmental friendly insecticides. General objective: To develop a herbal insecticide from CedrusatlanticaManetti against house flies. Methods:This was an experimental quantitative study were by the percentage mortality of the house flies per agiven concentration of the formulations were obtained. A safe strength of the emulsion was also be attained through dermatoxicity tests and an appropriate one selected. Results:Cedrusatlantica oil extract has pecticidal effects against Musca domestica at a concentration that is as low as 0.5% giving a mortality rate of 50% in 20minutes. However the effects increase with increase in the concentration. Conclusions: This study found out that; Cedrusatlantica has insecticidal and repulsive effects against house flies (Musca domestica) at even smaller concentrations (as small as 0.5%) in a short period of time. These effects are as effective as the synthetic pesticides. Given that the natural sources are said to be safer than the synthetic, Cedrusatlantica emulsion will be one of the best options against house flies. Cedrusatlantica oil formulated into an emulsion isn’t irritating to the skin;therefore it can be topically used onto the skin