Synergistic Potential of Boenninghausenia albiflora (Hook.) Rchb. Ex Meisn. Essential Oil Blends Against Meloidogyne incognita and Spodoptera litura: A Natural Approach to Pest Management

Abstract

This study explored the chemical composition and synergistic interactions of essential oils (EOs) from Boenninghausenia albiflora collected from four locations (Boenninghausenia albiflora Harinagar EOs, BAHEO; Boenninghausenia albiflora Bhowali EOs, BABEO; Boenninghausenia albiflora Dunagiri EOs, BADEO and Boenninghausenia albiflora Munsyari EOs, BAMEO) in Uttarakhand, India, which focus on their pesticidal properties. To assess synergistic effects in pesticidal activities, EOs were combined in binary, ternary, and quaternary mixtures at equivalent ratios. The major compounds present in the EOs were identified. Myrcene emerged as the most abundant component with 39.3%, in BABEO followed by 28.8% in BAMEO, 25.0% in BAHEO, and 23.0% in BADEO. β-Pinene was identified in BAHEO with a significant amount (11.3%). The nematicidal and antifeedant activities of EOs and their combinations were evaluated. BAHEO, BABEO, BADEO, and BAMEO (1:1:1:1) synergistically catalyzed the highest egg-hatching inhibition and juvenile mortality against Meloidogyne incognita. Similarly, antifeedant activity against Spodoptera litura was strongest in BAHEO, BABEO, BADEO, and BAMEO (1:1:1:1). The novelty of this research lies in its pioneering exploration of the pesticidal properties of EOs derived from B. albiflora. By evaluating the pesticidal activity of these selected Rutaceae herb, this study aims to fill a significant gap in the current scientific knowledge.