Chemical Profile and Insecticidal Properties of Essential Oil Obtained from Algerian Artemisia herba-alba Leaves

Vector control is critical for reducing mosquito-borne diseases. Plant-derived insecticides offer a safer and environmentally friendly alternative to synthetic chemicals. This study aimed to evaluate the chemical composition and insecticidal efficacy of essential oil (EO) from Artemisia herba-alba against Culex pipiens.

EO composition was determined using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS). Larvicidal, adulticidal, repellent, and oviposition deterrent activities were assessed through bioassays. Molecular docking analyses were conducted to investigate interactions between major EO components and mosquito enzymes involved in critical physiological processes.

GC/MS revealed camphor (19.47%), 2-nonanone (16.96%), exo-fenchol (9.30%), and cis-thujone (8.18%) as the primary constituents. Larvicidal activity exhibited a dose- and time-dependent effect, with an LC₅₀ of 47.12 ppm at 72 h. Adulticidal activity was moderate. Repellency reached 92.92% at 6 µL/cm², and EO significantly reduced oviposition, with an Oviposition Activity Index of -0.85 at 7%. Docking studies indicated strong binding of cis-thujone and pinocarvone to glutathione S-transferase, chitinase h, and acetylcholinesterase.

The EO of A. herba-alba demonstrated potent larvicidal, repellent, and oviposition deterrent effects, with active compounds potentially disrupting essential mosquito physiological functions. These findings support its potential application as a natural agent in integrated vector management programs.