Sapindus saponaria (Sapindaceae): Chemical Composition and Toxic Effect on Artemia salina (Artemiidae) and Aedes aegypti (Culicidae)

Purpose: Phytochemical analysis of Sapindus saponaria leaves extracts, evaluating their effect on Artemia salina and Aedes aegypti larvae. Theoretical framework: Dengue is a disease transmitted by Aedes aegypti mosquitoes and considered a serious public health problem. Its control is done through the management of adult forms of A. aegypti, which occurs through the application of synthetic insecticides. However, its constant use has selected populations of insects resistant to chemical products and for this reason alternative solutions are sought, such as the use of phytoinsecticides. Method/design/approach: Leaves were collected in areas of native vegetation, from which the ethanolic, aqueous and acetonitrile extracts were obtained, in addition to the ethanolic extract fractions, submitted to phytochemical analysis, with A. aegypti and A. salina larvae used to evaluate the toxic effect of extracts and fractions. Results and conclusion: The ethanol extract showed the greatest diversity of secondary metabolites, the best CL90 and 100% larval mortality, negatively affecting larval time and larval and pupal mortality, in addition to decreasing the number of formed alates. The inhibitory effect is probably linked to the presence of cardiotonic saponins and heterosides, known for their deleterious action in organisms. Research implications: The research indicates the potential use of Sapindus saponaria leaves in the control of the dengue vector. Originality/value: Viability of plant strata for vector control, reducing the application of synthetic insecticides and improving environmental quality.