Abstract

Mentha piperita concentrations based on LC₅₀ were estimated against Rice weevil, Sitophilus oryzae the results indicated that an increase in the insecticidal effect of M. piperita essential oil against the insect species when formulated as a nano-emulsion the highest and fastest toxic effect were observed with M. piperita (4%) nanoemulsion via thin film residue method and treatment with wheat grains method, because of smaller particle size and increase biological activity due to increased surface area of emulsion droplets therefore more opportunity of the formulation to come in contact with the target insect. The nano-emulsion formulations of M. piperita essential oil containing surfactants were successfully created via the high-energy emulsification method. The formulation provided a nano particle-size, with the smallest size being 43.55 nm. The results concluded that M. piperita nanoemulsions may be used as an alternative for the control of other stored-product insect pests. They have the advantage of promising insecticidal activity and being eco-friendly and less toxic than synthetic pesticides.

Keywords: Rice weevil; Sitophilus oryzae; Mentha piperita L.; Nano formulation; EO nano-emulsion