Shift to natural pesticides now gaining popularity

The shift from using chemical to botanical pesticides has been gaining popularity.

This developed as researchers at the University of the Philippines in the Visayas, West Visayas State University and Panay State Polytechnic University have jointly implemented a project to develop pest control products using ethno-botanicals.

The project stemmed from the move of various countries to ban the use of chemical or inorganic pesticides because of their harmful effects to the environment, humans and livestock.

Botanical pesticides promote balances and self-regulated agricultural systems that are known to be less harmful to humans, environment and animals. They are also cost less to farmers considering that insecticides eat up 40 percent of the total production cost.

Potential plants for the project were selected based on the availability, high bioactivity and endemicity. The plants' active ingredients have been already known and whether they can be extracted as soluble in water was also considered.

Chosen for the development of natural pesticides were roots of "tubli" (Derris spp.), vines of "makabuhay" or "manunggal" (Tinospora rumphii) and tubers of "kayos" (Dioscorea hispida). Powder and liquid formulations from these plants were already developed.

The stability and shelf life of the formulated products were determined based on acidity or pH, moisture content, color and smell.

Initial toxicity tests revealed that "tubli" is as effective as commercial insecticide.

Tests on cytotoxicity and anti-feedant properties of powder formulations also revealed that "tubli" is the most promising natural pesticide followed by "makabuhay" and "kayos." - Ferliza C. Contratista/LPM