In vitro activity of the Schinus terebinthifolius (R.) extract on engorged female tick of Rhipicephalus Boophilus microplus and on larvae hatchability

Ticks are the main ectoparasites responsible for losses in cattle livestock due to spoliation, hematozoa transmission, and destruction of the leather; Rhipicephalus Boophilus microplus is the main agent in tropical countries. The control of these agents is done basically with chemical products, but this procedure has presented some challenges, such as the rapid development of ticksu0027 resistance against them. In this context, the phototherapy is an important alternative for controlling these agents. Schinus terebinthifolius, known as Brazilian peppertree, presents antimicrobial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory activities. Many organic molecules are reported as having effect on organisms extracted from this plant. This paper aimed to test the efficient activity of the S. terebinthifolius extract under different concentrations on the egg mass formation of R. B. microplus and on larvae hatchability in vitro assay. Engorged females of R. B. microplus were collected in a bovine herd and were taken to laboratory and submitted to immersion test into alcoholic extract at 100%, 50%, 25%, 10%, 5%, and 2.5% dilutions. Test in impregnated papers was carried out under the same concentrations to verify the extract efficacy that causes larval mortality. Control groups were composed, one with water, one with alcohol, and one with a commercial formulation containing cypermethrin, chlorpyrifos, and piperonyl butoxide. It was found that the extract at 70% hydroalcoholic solution showed acceptable efficacy in 50% and 100% dilutions. Result of the impregnated papers test showed 100% extract efficacy at 50% and 100% concentration. These results suggest this phytotherapic extract could be used for R. B. microplus control.