Evaluation of Alchornea cordifolia Extracts for Larvicidal Activity against Anopheles Mosquitoes: Implications for Malaria Control

Abstract

Alchornea cordifolia is a botanical specimen renowned for its medicinal benefits. The phytochemicals present in this plant boast antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and analgesic properties, making it a versatile and effective remedy. This plant has been utilized for several decades in treating various ailments like; malaria, diarrhoea, and respiratory infections. To evaluate its efficacy in eradicating mosquito larvae, extractions from both the plant's bark and leaves were obtained using various methods, including crude methods, hot water, and ethanol. The plant was macerated in alcohol and hot water, while the bioassay was carried out using a static non-renewal test. The results of the bioassay indicated that the LC50 values for the various extracts of the plant. The ethanol extract was the most active against the mosquito larvae, with an LC50 value of 8.37 ppm. It was followed by the crude stem-bark extract, which had an LC50 value of 13.18 ppm, and the hot water extract, which had an LC50 value of 110.00 ppm. The plant's diverse range of phytochemicals may have played a role in its potency in eliminating mosquito larvae. This activity of the plant strongly suggests that Alchornea cordifolia has insecticidal properties as a larvicide against malaria.