Botanical Insecticides: Plant-based Protection

Botanical-based insecticides have an active ingredient derived from a plant that is not changed — or minimally changed — from its plant-based chemical structure. Most current insecticides are made from synthetic materials, which are petroleum-based. Many of them mimic naturally derived insecticides, with changes in the chemical structure that affect the properties in some way while retaining the insecticidal properties.

The secondary metabolites found in plants act as a natural defense mechanism against pests. Thousands of years ago, humans discovered these biochemical properties and have used plants to aid in the management of pests ever since. Though hundreds of secondary metabolites found in plants have pesticidal qualities, relatively few are used commercially. Most commercial botanical pesticides are contact or ingested toxins that work on the central nervous system of a pest. They also work as antifeedants, deterrents, growth regulators, energy-production inhibitors and mating disruptors. See below for details of common commercial botanical pesticides.

Sabadilla

Plant Source: Seeds of Sabadilla, (Schoenocaulon officinale)

Mode of Action: Binds to sodium channels

Rotenone

Plant Source: Stems and roots of Tuba Root (Derris) spp.

Mode of Action: Affects energy production; halts metabolism

Pyrethrins

Plant Source: Chrysanthemum flowers

Mode of Action: Binds to sodium channels

Azadirachtin

Plant Source: Bark, leaves, fruit, seeds of Neem (Azadirachta indica)

Mode of Action: Antifeedant; IGR; sterilizing effect

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Written By

Correy Hildebrand

Correy Hildebrand is the Technical Field Specialist for MGK's East Coast Region, where she supports PMPs in the field, offers expert consultations and shares insect knowledge at conferences and trade shows. Correy has an extensive background in forensic entomology and has worked as a research assistant and consulting entomologist. A loyal Gopher, Correy is a PhD candidate at the University of Minnesota, where she also received her master's and bachelor's degrees.