The Pesticidal Properties of Catnip-Based Essential Oils That Derive From the Nepetalactone Compound

Synthetic insecticides used to control stored-product pests can leave harmful residues that pose risks to human health, creating a need for safer alternatives. Plant-derived essential oils have shown pesticidal and repellent properties, yet catnip (Nepeta cataria) essential oil has been minimally studied against storage pests. This study investigated whether catnip-based essential oil solutions containing the active compound nepetalactone exhibit pesticidal effects against red flour beetles (Tribolium castaneum). The beetles were exposed to fumigation from filter paper treated with solutions of 10% and 20% catnip, essential oil, with mortality changes compared to a control group. Results showed increased mortality in both treatment groups relative to the control, with the 20% concentration producing the highest mean mortality. Statistical analysis revealed a significant difference between the control and 20% treatment. However, overall mortality remained modest, suggesting that catnip may have more potential as a repellent than a pesticidal fume against stored product pests. The findings point out catnip essential oil as a potential low risk, plant base component for pest management in stored product environments, while also highlighting the need for more research.