Chemical composition and insecticidal activity of Artemisia absinthium L. essential oil against adults of Tenebrio molitor L.

Abstract

Many researchers and manufacturers around the world have shown interest in essential oils and their components. Artemisia absinthium L., commonly known as wormwood, is a medicinal and aromatic bitter herb frequently used in traditional medicine since ancient times. The objective of this research was to study the chemical composition and evaluate the insecticidal activities of A. absinthium essential oil (AEO) against Tenebrio molitor L., mealworm battle. We explored its effectiveness through several means, including direct contact, fumigation and repulsion of insects. Phytochemical analysis was performed using GC-MS technique. The main components identified in the essential oil were camphor (32.34%), chamazulene (13.92%), and terpinen-4-ol (10.18%). These results highlight that Algerian A. absinthium plants are valuable resources due to their bioactive compounds. In particular, the results obtained in our investigation suggest that the essential oil obtained from A. absinthium has the potential to be used as a natural bioinsecticide.