Production of Natural Pesticide and Assessment of Its Effectiveness on Insect Pest

Biopesticides are a type of pesticide derived from natural materials like animals, plants, bacteria, and certain minerals, used to control pests. They offer a more environmentally friendly alternative to conventional pesticides due to their typically lower toxicity and reduced enviromnental impact. This study covers the use of neem (Azadiracta indica) popularly called dongoyaro and Lemon balm­ Melissa officinalis for repelling household pest. Dongoyaro- Azadirachta indica and Lemon balm- Melissa officinalis were collected in a clean polyethylene bag from Auchi in Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State, South-South Nigeria. It was identified and authenticated by a plant taxonomist in the Department of Science Laboratory Technology, Auchi Polytechnic, Auchi after which it was transported to the Microbiology Laboratory of Auchi polytechnic, Auchi for analysis. The biopesticide was produced and the antipesticidal sensitivity test was carried out by spraying the prepared biopesticide in areas with mosquitoes and ants. After which the environment was closely observed and observations recorded while alcohol based deodorant was used as control. The environments were examined after 10mins, 20mins, 30mins, 40mins, 50mins and 60mins for death or dispersal of insects, which indicated the degree of susceptibility of the test organisms. The result showed that within the first 10mins the insects were dispersing, by 20mins some were already dying off between 40mins to 1hr most of the insects died while others within the environment avoided the area in which the pesticide was applied. Dongoyaro­ Azadirachta indica and Lemon balm- Melissa officinalis can acts as an insect repellant and has insecticidal properties. The innovation could also support the ecological approach to insect control in stored produce (when it is used without the alcohol based deodorant) as it takes care of the environment, the safety of the farmer, and the final consumer as it is devoid of chemical residues and subsequently as a food security measure. These results could be adopted in indigenous pest management strategies for stored produce after the economic feasibility and acceptance have been determined on a farmer scale level. We, therefore, recommend the use of homemade solvents to sustainably extract botanical insecticides as a cost-saving mechanism and on an economic case-by-case basis in integrated insect management programs.