Fabricating Natural Polymeric Encapsules for Pest Control Uploaded with 1,8-Cineole Extracted from Eucalypt Ecotypes'...

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Science
• Entomology
• Green Chemistry

Background:

• Eucalypt essential oils (EEOs) are explored for their pest control properties.
• The primary active compound in EEOs is 1,8-cineole.
• Encapsulation techniques are investigated to enhance EEO efficacy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate eucalypt ecotypes for optimal essential oil extraction.
• To compare microwave-assisted steam distillation (MASD) and electric steam distillation (ESD) for EEO extraction.
• To assess the efficacy of EEO-loaded encapsules against termite infections.

Main Methods:

• Eucalypt leaves were collected from three distinct ecotypes.
• Essential oils were extracted using MASD and ESD, followed by GC/MS analysis.
• Polymeric encapsules (guar gum and sodium alginate) were fabricated and loaded with 1,8-cineole for bioassays.

Main Results:

• 1,8-cineole was the major constituent in all EEOs, with Hada Al-Sham ecotypes showing the highest concentration (59.29%).
• MASD proved more efficient, eco-friendly, and cost-effective than ESD.
• Alginate-based encapsules (ABEs) demonstrated superior characteristics, and higher 1,8-cineole concentrations significantly increased termite mortality.

Conclusions:

• Eucalypt essential oils, particularly 1,8-cineole, are effective in pest control.
• MASD is a preferred method for EEO extraction due to its efficiency and environmental benefits.
• Encapsulated 1,8-cineole, especially in alginate formulations, offers a potent and versatile solution for termite management.