Journal of Entomological Research
SCOPUSWeb of Science
  • Year: 2025
  • Volume: 49
  • Issue: 1

Exploration of herbal plants as bioinsecticides to control head lice

Department of Biology, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Padang State University, West Sumatra, Indonesia

*Corresponding authors’ E-mail : fifioktavia185@gmail.com

Online Published on 13 May, 2025.

Abstract

The prevalence of diseases caused by head lice Pediculus humanus capitis, is quite high. It is an ectoparasite that lives on the human scalp. This study aims to identify and evaluate herbal plants that have the potential to control head lice as natural insecticides and safe for humans and the environment. The results showed that leaves, seeds, or tubers from plants such as Vertiveria zizaniodes, Carica papaya L., Tamarindus indica, Boesenbergia rotunda, Illicium verum, Cocos nucifera, Jatropha curcas Linn., Syzygium polyanthum, Citrus aurantifolia, Cymbopogon citrates, Morinda Citrifolia, Piper ornatum, Annona squamosa, Annona muricata, Citrus limon and Citrus aurantifolia have the potential as natural insecticides in eradicating Pediculus humanus capitis.

Keywords

Head lice, Natural ingredients, Pediculosis capitis