Evaluation of the Eco-Friendly Phyto-chemical Insecticidal Activity of Zingiber officinale Rhizome and Leaf Against Maize Stem Borer (Spodoptera spp.)"
This study explores the bio-insecticidal potential of Zingiber officinale (ginger) leaf and rhizome extracts against stem borer larvae (Spodoptera spp.), a destructive pest that significantly impacts maize production. The widespread use of synthetic pesticides to control these pests has raised serious concerns about environmental safety, human health, and pest resistance. Consequently, there is an increasing demand for effective, plant-based alternatives that are both eco-friendly and sustainable. In this study, ginger extracts were prepared using Soxhlet and boiling extraction methods at various concentrations (100 ppm to 300 ppm) and tested under laboratory conditions. Larval mortality was recorded at regular intervals (3, 6, 12, 24, 48, and 72 hours) to assess the time- and dose-dependent effects of the treatments. Results showed that higher concentrations of ginger extract, especially at 300 ppm, caused significantly higher mortality rates, demonstrating strong insecticidal activity. These findings suggest that Z. officinale has promising bio-insecticidal properties and could serve as a natural alternative to synthetic insecticides. This Research promotes incorporating ginger-based formulations into pest control strategies. strategies and emphasizes the potential of botanicals to promote sustainable agriculture by reducing chemical inputs and improving crop protection in maize fields.