[Preliminary study on molluscicidal effect of active components from Centipeda minima].

Area of Science:

• Phytochemistry and Natural Products
• Parasitology
• Environmental Toxicology

Context:

• Schistosomiasis transmission relies on freshwater snails like Oncomelania hupensis.
• Effective and eco-friendly molluscicides are crucial for schistosomiasis control.
• Centipeda minima is a traditional medicinal plant with potential bioactive compounds.

Purpose:

• To investigate the molluscicidal activity of Centipeda minima extracts against Oncomelania hupensis.
• To identify the active components responsible for the molluscicidal effect.
• To compare the efficacy of water and ethanol extracts.

Summary:

• Water and ethanol extracts of Centipeda minima were analyzed using FTIR and UV-Vis spectrophotometry.
• Laboratory tests following WHO guidelines showed high mortality of Oncomelania hupensis (up to 100%) with extracts above 2.0 g/L.
• The LC50 values were 0.50 g/L for aqueous extract and 0.62 g/L for ethanol extract, indicating potent molluscicidal properties.
• Aqueous extract exhibited higher molluscicidal activity than ethanol extract.
• Sesquiterpene lactones and sterols were identified as the main components in both extracts.

Impact:

• Centipeda minima extracts show promise as a natural and effective molluscicide for controlling snail populations.
• This research contributes to developing sustainable strategies for schistosomiasis prevention and control.
• The findings support the traditional use of Centipeda minima and warrant further investigation into its bioactive compounds.