Less Toxic Plant Based Pesticides Examined

Could essential oils extracted from lavender be used as a natural herbicide to prevent weed growth among crops? Photo courtesy of Science Daily

A new study presented to the American Chemical Society last weekend shows promising results for alternative pesticides made from the essential oils of plants.

Spices such as cinnamon, rosemary, thyme, clove and mint are extracted and then diluted in water to repel and sometimes kill pests. The study, Plant Essential Oils as Green Pesticides for Pest and Disease Management, was presented by Dr. Murray Isman, PhD., of the University of British Columbia.

Dr. Isman and colleagues tested many plant essential oils and found that they have a broad range of insecticidal activity against agricultural pests. Some spiced-based commercial products now being used by farmers have already shown success in protecting organic strawberry, spinach, and tomato crops against destructive aphids and mites. Other scientists are currently exploring the insect-fighting potential of lavender, basil, bergamot, patchouli oil, and at least a dozen other oils from exotic plant sources in China. Funding for this study was provided by EcoSMART, a botanical pesticide company based in Alpharetta, Ga.

Source: The American Chemical Society