Eco-Friendly Insecticides: Phytochemicals and Green Nano pesticides

Abstract:

Eco-friendly insecticides derived from phytochemicals and green nanopesticides represent a promising frontier in sustainable pest management, aiming to reduce environmental pollution and health hazards associated with synthetic chemical pesticides. Phytochemicals, which are naturally occurring bioactive compounds found in plants, exhibit potent insecticidal, antifeedant, and repellent properties, making them effective against a broad spectrum of pests while being biodegradable and less toxic to non-target organisms. These plant-derived compounds, including alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenoids, and phenolics, disrupt pest physiology and behavior in unique ways, thereby reducing the chances of resistance development. Complementing phytochemicals, green nanopesticides leverage nanotechnology to enhance the efficacy and precision of natural insecticides. These formulations, often based on biodegradable polymers or green-synthesized nanoparticles using plant extracts, improve the stability, controlled release, and target-specificity of the active agents, reducing the required dosage and minimizing off-target impacts. Together, phytochemicals and green nanopesticides provide a synergistic approach to eco-friendly pest control, aligning with integrated pest management (IPM) principles and advancing agricultural sustainability by promoting safer alternatives to conventional pesticides.