New possible insect growth regulators from Catharanthus roseus

Abstract

This paper discusses the possibility of using the insect growth regulator (IGR) principle(s) found in C. roseus as replacement of synthetic insecticides and substitute for existing botanical insecticides such as those derived from neem (Azadirachta indica) and pyrethrum (Chrysanthemum cineraraefolium). The n-hexane fraction of acetone extract from C. roseus leaf was found to contain α-amyrin acetate and oleanolic acid as natural source of IGR against tobacco caterpillar (Spodoptera litura) and gram pod borer (Helicoverpa armigera) under biodirected isolation of active principle