Toxicity of isolated phenolic compounds from Acorus calamus L. to control Spodoptera litura (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) under laboratory conditions

Background Spodoptera litura (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), the tobacco cutworm, is an prominent agricultural pest. To reduce the use of chemical pesticides that cause health problems and that leave residue in the environment, some botanical pesticides have been developed. Our research aimed to evaluate the insecticidal efficacy of Acorus calamus L. extract for the control of S. litura under laboratory conditions. Results After 24 h of topical application, the A. calamus methanolic crude extract showed toxicity against secondary instar S. litura larvae (LD 50 ~ 7.438 µg/larva). Chrysin (5,7-dihydroxy flavone), one of the isolated phenolic compounds, showed optimal control efficiency (LD 50 ~ 2.752 µg/larva) and showed a reduction in carboxylesterase activities, which have detoxification reduction roles in larvae. Conclusion Chrysin in the crude extract of A. calamus may be an active compound to control this pest, and it may be applied as an alternative to minimize the usage of chemical insecticides. Graphical Abstract