Recent advances in harnessing essential oils for sustainable agricultural mite pest control: A review

Essential oils (EOs) have been identified as potential biodegradable acaricides, offering a sustainable alternative to conventional chemical pesticides. This review compiles data from over 60 studies (2014–2025) to provide a comprehensive overview of current knowledge on the toxicity and biological impacts of EOs on the families of agricultural mite pests (Acarina): Tetranychidae, Tenuipalpidae, Pygmephoridae, and Eriophyidae. It critically examines the role of EO chemotypes, their modes of action, and selectivity toward beneficial mite species. This analysis shows that EOs of Lamiaceae and Myrtaceae families are the most effective in miticides. In many cases, there is evidence of promising bioactivity by monoterpenoids and phenylpropanoids. However, significant gaps remain in understanding field effectiveness, long-term stability, and specific molecular targets. It also explores the potential of nanoformulation technology to reduce volatility and improve the delivery of EOs. Tetranychus urticae Koch (Tetranychidae) was the main target in most studies. Bioassays used to assess acaricidal, repellent, and oviposition inhibition effects include fumigation, contact toxicity tests, area preference tests, diffusion assays, bridge assays, and paired comparison tests, among others. This review provides a roadmap for future research, highlighting the importance of integrating optimized EO formulations into sustainable integrated pest management (IPM) programs.