Botanical Pesticides as Sustainable Alternatives for Insect Pest Management in Vegetable Crops: A Narrative Review

Abstract The intensive use of synthetic insecticides in vegetable production has resulted in pesticide resistance, environmental contamination, non-target organism toxicity, and human health risks. Botanical pesticides—plant-derived compounds with insecticidal, repellent, or growth-regulating properties—have emerged as sustainable alternatives compatible with integrated pest management (IPM) and agroecological systems. This narrative review synthesizes literature (2000–2025) on the sources, modes of action, efficacy, formulation challenges, and adoption potential of botanical pesticides in vegetable cropping systems. Evidence indicates that botanicals such as neem, pyrethrum, essential oils, rotenone alternatives, and plant secondary metabolites can effectively suppress key insect pests while reducing ecological risks. However, variability in efficacy, rapid degradation, and regulatory constraints remain challenges. The review highlights pathways for improving consistency through formulation innovation, synergistic combinations, and integration with biological control. Keywords: botanical pesticides; vegetable crops; insect pest management; sustainable agriculture; IPM; plant secondary metabolites