FT-IR Analysis of Moringa oleifera L. Leaf Extract and its Insecticidal activity against Callosobruchus chinensis L. (Coleoptera: Bruchidae)

Author: Sourabh Maheshwari, Sonu Bharti, Aakriti Gusain, Saif Ali Khan and Neha Girish Matra

Download PDF

Abstract

The objective of this study was to investigate the insecticidal properties of Moringa oleifera leaves with identification of chemical compounds within its extract using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). The research involved scanning the leaves' extract across a spectral range of 4000-400 cm-1 and identifying characteristic peaks in the FTIR spectrum. Spectral analysis confirmed the presence of several important chemical groups, including carboxylates, phenols, polyphenols, and hydroxyl groups within the extract. These compounds are known for their bioactive properties, which may contribute to the insecticidal effects observed in the study. In our experiment, notable results were obtained while assessing insecticidal efficacy of the Moringa oleifera leaves. The highest mortality rate of 100% was observed when dried leaves at concentrations of 10% and 20% were used against the targeted insect Callosobruchus chinesis infestation within a 48-hour timeframe. In contrast, lower mortality percentages of 38% and 72% were recorded when 5% and 10% dried leaves were used for the same duration of insect exposure. These results suggest that Moringa oleifera leaves contain bioactive compounds with insecticidal properties, as confirmed by FTIR analysis and insecticidal bioasssay. Further it suggests that botanicals serves as eco-friendly and sustainable insecticidal alternatives under storage conditions.

Keywords

Moringa oleifera, FTIR spectroscopy, Pulse beetle, insecticidal activity, Functional group

Conclusion

In conclusion, the present study provides compelling evidence for the insecticidal potential of M. oleifera leaves, reaffirming their value as a biopesticide. The research combined FTIR analysis with insecticidal bioassays, shedding light on the chemical compounds present in the M. oleifera leaf extract and their role in combating insect infestations. The FTIR spectra confirmed the presence of bioactive chemical groups such as carboxylates, phenols, polyphenols, and hydroxyl groups, which are recognized for their insecticidal properties. The bioassay results revealed that the effectiveness of moringa leaves is both concentration and time-dependent. The highest mortality rate of 100% was achieved with 10% and 20% dried leaf concentrations within 48 hours, signifying the potent insecticidal effects of these extracts. Furthermore, the moringa leaves do not compromise the taste of stored seeds, making them a practical choice for pest management in food storage as an eco-friendly and sustainable alternative for insect pest control. Moreover, the study emphasizes the antioxidant properties of M. oleifera leaves, attributed to their high polyphenol content, which helps protect vital biomolecules and proteins from oxidative damage. In light of these findings, Moringa holds promise as a sustainable and eco-friendly solution in the ongoing quest for effective insect pest control under storage conditions.

References

-

How to cite this article

Sourabh Maheshwari, Sonu Bharti, Aakriti Gusain, Saif Ali Khan and Neha Girish Matra (2023). FT-IR Analysis of Moringa oleifera L. Leaf Extract and its Insecticidal activity against Callosobruchus chinensis L. (Coleoptera: Bruchidae). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1047-1051.