Nerium oleander L.: Unveiling the Potency as a Biopesticide for Sustainable Pest Management

Abstract

Nerium oleander L., a toxic plant that is historically valued for its ornamental and medicinal uses, has recently gained attention for its potential as a natural biopesticide. This review explores and highlights the biopesticidal efficacy of N. oleander by evaluating its effects on various agricultural pests. It also shows the bioactive compounds in N. oleander, which contribute to its pesticidal properties such as insecticidal, larvicidal, antifeedant, and repellent activities. Notably, those activities contribute to mechanisms of action that include neurotoxic effects, disruption of metabolic pathways, and interference with the development of pests. While the toxicity to non-target organisms remains a consideration, N. oleander offers a promising alternative to chemical pesticides when applied judiciously in integrated pest management (IPM) frameworks. Additionally, this review discusses the prospects of using N. oleander in pest control, focusing on improving its application within sustainable agriculture, optimizing formulations, and reducing environmental risks. Overall, N. oleander potentially plays a crucial role in promoting environmentally friendly agricultural practices and reducing dependence on synthetic chemicals.