Crude Extract Versus Tablet Formulation of Artemisia herba alba: Dual Strategy for Effective and Quality-Preserving Control of the Rice Weevil, Sitophilus oryzae

Abstract

Botanical insecticides represent a promising alternative to synthetic chemicals for controlling stored-grain pests. However, their use is limited by formulation-related challenges that affect grain quality. This study conducted a comparative evaluation of the insecticidal effectiveness of Artemisia herba-alba crude extract and a solidified matrix formulation (Tablet-like formulation), against Sitophilus oryzae. The formulation involved embedding the extract in a cellulose–starch base. The evaluation included insect mortality, repellency behavior, oxygen consumption, and selected biochemical parameters. Chemical profiles were analyzed using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS). The crude extract demonstrated strong insecticidal activity, achieving 100% mortality at 10,000 ppm after 72 h. In contrast, the tablet-like formulation showed reduced mortality (33%) under the same conditions. Similar trends were observed in repellency tests, with the crude extract showing higher immediate activity (100%) compared to the tablet formulation (67.44%). Both treatments significantly decreased oxygen consumption and levels of lipase, α-amylase, and neuropeptide F. Only the crude extract affected protease and monoamine oxidase activities. GC–MS analysis revealed that, despite variations in the number and relative abundances of compounds detected, both formulations shared several major constituents. In sum, the crude extract showed superior performance in several parameters, particularly in rapid activity, while both forms exhibited comparable effects in other responses. These findings indicate that the intended application should guide formulation selection, with the crude extract is more suitable for rapid pest control, while the tablet-like formulation may be better for long-term protection and preservation of grain quality during storage.