CITRUS FRUIT WASTES-BASED ESSENTIAL OIL NANOEMULSIONS AS ECO-FRIENDLY INSECTICIDES

Citrus fruits, classified under the family Rutaceae, encompass

approximately 140 genera and 1,300 species, including Citrus sinensis (orange), C.

aurantifolia (lime), C. limon

(lemon), and C. reticulata

(mandarin). Following consumption, it is estimated that 40–60% of citrus fruits

are classified as waste. The peels represent the majority of this waste and are

recognized as a rich source of essential oils. These essential oils, derived

from the peel wastes, have applications across various sectors, including

cosmetics, medicine, food, and cleaning, owing to their biological activities,

which encompass antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory

properties. In addition, it has been reported that essential oils have

insecticide activity against pests due to their bioactive chemical compounds,

suggesting potential for new applications. However, their practical use in

agricultural fields is constrained by challenges such as low solubility, volatility,

and rapid degradation. The incorporation of essential oils into stable

formulations, such as nanoemulsions, may facilitate their application as

environmentally friendly insecticides in agricultural practices. Nanoemulsions

offer an eco-friendly approach and enhanced insecticidal activity due to

smaller quantities of essential oils usage, slow release and nano size effect.

This review addresses studies on insecticidal activities of nanoemulsions of

essential oils derived from citrus fruit waste, and provides awareness about

alternative methods in food waste management, potential use of essential oils,

advantages provided by nanoemulsions, and current methods in eco-friendly

insecticide studies.