Explorando o potencial antitérmico de Syzygium aromaticum (L.) Merr. et LM Perry

Abstract

As a result of human-induced changes in the natural environment, termites have become pests that cause significant economic losses. Control can be achieved through chemical barriers and techniques that are harmful to the environment. Therefore, sustainable and less toxic alternatives to control these insects are necessary. The present study aimed to explore the potential of clove, a spice originating from Indonesia, to control termites. For this purpose, a bibliographic search was carried out to find scientific articles published in English or Portuguese from 2005 to 2024 on the use of cloves in the control of termites. Twelve articles were selected and exploratory and analytical reading was carried out to record information such as presence and concentration of bioactive substances, termite species, mortality percentage, and time of action. The studies showed that the bioactive compound found in higher concentrations was eugenol. It was observed that the mortality rate after application of clove essential oil and extracts varied from 80 to 100% in different periods. The results lead to the conclusion that clove can be used as a viable alternative to control agricultural and urban pests such as termites.