Evaluation of larvicidal activity of Ocimum basilicum L. essential oil on Aedes (Stegomyia) aegypti L.

Abstract

Aedes aegypti is a mosquito species of significant importance to public health because of its role in the spread of infections in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. Chemical control measures are crucial for insect management. However, the widespread use of commercial insecticides has led to the development of resistance to Ae. aegypti. Therefore, alternative control measures must be explored. This study aimed to investigate the larvicidal activity and mechanism of action of Ocimum basilicum essential oil against Aedes (Stegomyia) aegypti L. The phytochemical components of the oil were identified using gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry analysis, which revealed that oxygenated monoterpenes, primarily Linalool and Estragole, were the major components. The essential oil demonstrated concentration-dependent larvicidal activity, with increased mortality rates at higher concentrations. The larvicidal activity of the essential oil may be enhanced, as shown by molecular docking of its phytochemical components, either individually or in combination with juvenile hormones. These findings suggest that the essential oil has the potential to be used as a larvicide for the management of Ae. aegypti populations and that the mechanism of action may involve interactions between the phytochemical components and juvenile hormones.