Medicinal Plants to Control Diseases and Pests

Abstract

The control of pests and diseases continues to attract interest and requires a high level of attention. Pest control is fundamental to sustainable crop production in terms of both quality and quantity. Environmental protection of ecosystems and biodiversity is now also factored into the equation. Modern pest management utilizes a variety of methods to prevent crop loss and maintain yield quality. Increasingly popular among them is the use of plant extracts and essential oils, known as a natural source of antimicrobials. Plant oils have antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, antiparasitic, antifeedant, antitermitic and antinematicidal properties; thus these biologically active natural products from essential oils and plant extracts have the potential to replace synthetic pesticides in the management of fungal rotting in fruits and vegetables, suppression of soil-borne plant diseases, and the control of pests in stored product and in the field. The discovery of natural products with low mammalian and environmental toxicity for integrated pest management (IPM) will ensure a safe and reliable food supply into the future.