Biologically Active Compounds in Essential Oil of Tagetes minuta and their Effects on Arthropod Pests

Abstract

Synthetic pesticides have been extensively and often indiscriminately used for the management of insect and mite pests. Their prolonged and excessive use has led to insecticide resistance, environmental contamination, and adverse effects on non-target organisms and human health. These concerns have intensified the search for safer and sustainable botanical alternatives. Tagetes minuta (wild marigold) is a promising candidate, as it produces essential oils rich in bioactive compounds such as (Z)-β-ocimene and tagetone, which possess strong insecticidal, acaricidal, and repellent properties. The efficacy of T. minuta essential oil has been demonstrated against a wide range of pests, including stored-grain insects, field crop pests, and livestock ectoparasites. This review summarises the chemical composition, bioactivity, and pest management potential of T. minuta essential oil, highlighting its prospects as an eco-friendly alternative to conventional synthetic pesticides.