Insecticidal activity of essential oils on Aedes aegypti larvae

The insecticidal activity of essential oils from 52 Bolivian plant species has been evaluated on Aedes aegypti larvae. The active components of essential oils showing an interesting larvicidal effect have been studied. The monoterpenes E-anethol and E-nerolidol were found to be the active principles of the most toxic essential oils. The lethal concentrations (LC50 and LC95) of some essential oils, E-anethol, E-nerolidol and a reference insecticide (Temephos) are given. © 1998 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.