Application of essential oils with potential larvicides in the control of mosquito vectors of the genus Culex sp.: review

Vector mosquitoes are responsible for the spread of arboviruses, parasites, and other zoonoses relevant to public health, causing various problems in several nations. Sustainable alternatives to synthetic insecticide substances are being researched for the control of these mosquitoes, with the requirement that they be safe for public health and not harm the environment. This chapter focused on examining the scientific advances related to the larvicidal activity of essential oils against vector mosquitoes of the genus Culex spp. The research included a review of the scientific literature available in the Scopus database, following specific criteria, such as publications from 2012 to 2024. The results indicate that essential oils and compounds extracted from various parts of plants show significant potential as larvicides against different organisms of the genus Culex spp. In total, more than 164 plant species were investigated, with emphasis on the families Lamiaceae (36 species) and Apiaceae (16 species). The plant species with the highest larvicidal potential included Siparuna guianensis (Leaves with LC50: 0.89 μg/mL and Stem with LC50: 0.89 μg/mL), Carlina acaulis (roots with LC50: 1.31 μg/mL), and Syzygium aromaticum (Leaves with LC50: 0.374 ppm). Additionally, the most promising isolated compounds were eugenol, linalool, and carvacrol. The identification of compounds with larvicidal activity produced by essential oils may support the sustainable control of vector mosquitoes, reducing the risk of toxicity to non-target organisms and contributing to the promotion of public health.