The potential application of plant essential oils to control Pediculus humanus capitis (Anoplura: Pediculidae)

GUTIÉRREZ, M.M.; WERDIN, J.O.; STEFANAZZI, N.; BRAS, C.; FERRERO, A.

PARASITOLOGY RESEARCH

SPRINGER

Lugar: Berlin; Año: 2016 vol. 115 p. 633 - 641

0932-0113

The human head louse, Pediculus humanus capitis (Anoplura: Pediculidae), is anectoparasite confined to the scalp and human hairs. The repeated use of insecticides for the control of head lice during past decades has resulted in the development of marked levels of resistance. Natural compounds such as essential oils (EOs) have been suggested as alternative sources for insect control agents. In order to introduce a new pediculicide based on EOs, the effectiveness of the product and their effects on human being must be analyzed. In consequence, the biological activity of EOs from leaves and fruits of Schinus areira (Anacardiaceae) and leaves of Thymus vulgaris (Lamiaceae), Aloysia polystachya and Aloysia citriodora (Verbenacea) were evaluated against eggs and adults of P. h. capitis by fumigant and contact toxicity bioassays. Additionally, a dermal corrosion/irritation tests were performed on New Zealand albino rabbits. In fumigant bioassay, EOs from leaves and fruits of S. areira were the most toxic against P. h. capitis adults while these EOs and T. vulgaris were the most effective against eggs. In contact bioassay, the EO from T. vulgaris was the most toxic against both stages. In corrosion/irritation tests, the EOs did not produce dermal effects. According with the results, the essential oils from leaves of T. vulgaris would be a valid tool for the management of P. h. capitis. This EO produces a high knockdown effect in adults (followed by mortality) and toxicity in eggs when is applied for 21 minutes at a low concentration.