Exploring the potential of essential oils as larvicides in the control of <i>Aedes </i>species: An overview
Abstract
Aedes mosquitoes are key vectors of several fatal diseases, including dengue fever, chikungunya, Zika, and yellow fever, which pose serious global health hazards. The control of Aedes populations has historically been centered on the use of synthetic chemical insecticides. However, the increasing use of such chemicals is driving insecticide resistance, environmental toxicity, and adverse effects on non-target species. Thus, there is now immense enthusiasm to develop more environmentally friendly alternatives for larvicides. Plant essential oils have attracted many researchers as sources of new bio-larvicides due to their natural origin, biodegradability, and varied bioactive constituents. The active substances found in these oils are believed to be monoterpenes, sesquiterpenes, and phenolics, which, in turn, are reported to prove a significant toxic effect to the mosquito larvae as well. The present systematic review aimed to compile and synthesize recent studies (2012-2024) on essential oils from various plant species with larvicidal activity against Aedes. In this review, different plant families, extraction methods, chemical compositions, and reported LC₅₀ values for activity are examined. Essential oils are seen as a promising and sustainable alternative for mosquito vector control. The use of essential oils should be promoted for integrated vector management, which could reduce reliance on synthetic insecticides and support safe mosquito control strategies. There is a need for more studies on formulations such as nanoemulsions, microencapsulation, and polymer-based delivery systems to enhance the stability, persistence, and field efficacy of essential oils.