Application of Neem and Moringa Seed Oil as Botanical Preservative for Cowpea (Vigna Unguiculata L. Walp)

Abstract

Purpose: Cowpea, a valuable grain with high protein, carbohydrate, and vitamin content, faces significant post-harvest losses due to insufficient storage, pest infestations, and inefficient processing techniques. Thus, the efficacy of a combination of neem and moringa seed oils in a 1:3 ratio, serving as botanical insecticides, to control Callosobruchus maculatus infestation in five different cowpea varieties was evaluated. Research Method: The extracts were mixed at a ratio of 1:3 neem-moringa seed oils and applied mechanically to cowpea varieties in a concentration of 5.0. They were kept in plastic bowls measuring 17 cm deep by 24 cm wide, covered with muslin cloth for free-flow ventilation, and stored for 360 days. Findings: The result of the data collected at every 60 days showed that the seed extracts were effective in preserving all the cowpea varieties even at 360 days. The results indicate that certain cowpea varieties, such as Ife brown (IFB), were more prone to weevil attacks, while others, like Lobia brown (BGR), shown relatively lower susceptibility. The control samples exhibited a higher number of egg-laying and weevil populations compared to the treated samples. Value: The study revealed that the treatment successfully eradicated the weevil population and prevented new infestations.