FORMATION OF LOW – COST HERBICIDE USING NEEM TREE LEAVES EXTRACT (AZADIRACHTA INDICA)
Abstract
The increasing environmental and health concerns associated with synthetic herbicides have necessitated the development of sustainable alternatives. This study investigated the potential of neem tree leaves (Azadirachta indica) as a low cost herbicide. The bioactive compounds extracted from the leaves, including azadirachtin, salannin, and nimbin, demonstrated high efficacy against various weed species, including Desho grass (Pennisetum pedicellatum) and Para grass (Brachiaria mutica). The formulated herbicide comprised 20% neem extract; 10% surfactant, 59% stabilizer, and 65% water Field trials conducted in the Botanical Garden of the Science Laboratory Technology Department showed significant reductions in weed growth and development, with observable effects within 1-2 hours. The results of this study support the potential of neem-based herbicides as environmentally friendly and cost-effective alternatives to synthetic herbicides. Further research is recommended to optimize the extraction process, improve shelf life, and assess efficacy against a broader range of weed species.
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