Exploring Lamiaceae-derived bioactive compounds as nature’s arsenal for sustainable pest management

Intensive agriculture has long been associated with the excessive use of synthetic pesticides, leading to environmental pollution, health risks, and the development of pesticide-resistant insect populations. In response, significant scientific efforts are underway to seek safer alternatives for eco-friendly pest management, such as utilizing natural compounds, including essential oils derived from plants in the Lamiaceae family. This review explores the existing literature on Lamiaceae-derived bioactive compounds and their efficacy as alternative biopesticides. It delves into their chemical composition, mechanism of action, and practical application in pest management strategies. The multifaceted impact of these oils on insect pests is profound, with components like monoterpene, monoterpenoid, sesquiterpenoid, and aliphatic phenylpropanoids exhibiting diverse modes of action. These mechanisms may involve rupturing cell membranes, neurotoxic effects, antifeedant effects, repellent properties, and growth regulatory effects that make them effective natural alternatives to synthetic pesticides. However, their development as alternative biopesticides is often hindered by challenges such as standardization and formulation, regulatory approval, resistance development in insects, cost-effectiveness, as well as knowledge and awareness gaps. This synthesis of knowledge contributes to the evolving landscape of sustainable pest management practices, reducing the ecological footprint of intensive agriculture, and mitigating risks associated with conventional insecticides.