Evaluation of potential larvicidal and pupicidal activity of Cassia fistula L. synthesized silver nanoparticles against Aedes aegypti

Dengue Fever (DF) and Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF) are fatal and are spread primarily by Aedes aegypti. Control measures against vector causing disease have still not been well documented. The fatality of these diseases has alarmed a need for the development of promising methods to control A. aegypti. Nanotechnology offers the utilization of nanosized particles to target specific disease causing vectors such as mosquitoes. In the present study, an attempt was designed to synthesize silver nanoparticles from Cassia fistula leaf extract and to test its efficacy in vector control. The synthesized silver nanoparticles were sized in the range of 59 -62 nm. The silver nanoparticles were tested for their capability in larvicidal and pupicidal activity against all the larval stages and pupal stages of A. aegypti. The LC₅₀ values demonstrated the lethal effect of the nano material against all the stages of A. aegypti. The study draws attention towards the usage of plant parts in nano product synthesis that can act as a potential insecticide.