Author(s): Tuybia Bilal, PA Sofi, SA Gangoo, Ishtiyaq Ahad, SA Mir, SN Zaffar, M Iqbal Jeelani, Tawseef Ahmad Mir, Benatul Behar, Irtizah Mushtaq and Humera Gulzar

Abstract: The study explores the phytochemical composition and insecticidal potential of different parts of the pyrethrum plant (Chrysanthemum cinerariaefolium). Pyrethrum, known for its natural insecticidal properties derived from pyrethrins, is considered a safer alternative to synthetic insecticides. Flowers, leaves, and roots were collected from experimental fields of Forest Products and Utilization, Faculty of Forestry SKUAST-K, and subjected to methanol extraction to obtain crude plant extracts. These extracts were then screened for alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, phenols, and tannins. Results showed varying secondary metabolite concentrations among plant parts. Results indicated varying concentrations of secondary metabolites among plant parts, with flowers exhibiting high alkaloids, flavonoids, and tannins, leaves showing moderate alkaloids and flavonoids but lacking tannins, and roots possessing significant alkaloids and tannins but fewer flavonoids, saponins, and phenols. The presence of these compounds suggests insecticidal potential, with alkaloids in flowers and roots combating aphids, flavonoids enhancing insecticidal effects, and tannins acting as feeding deterrents. Phytochemical analysis illuminates pyrethrum's insecticidal efficacy, contributing to sustainable pest management knowledge and promoting botanical resources for eco-friendly pest control.

DOI: 10.33545/26174693.2024.v8.i5e.1118