ACARICIDAL EFFECT OF ETHYL ACETATE FRACTION OF XYLOPIA AETHIOPICA ON CATTLE TICKS
Abstract
Ticks are hematophagous ectoparasites and major vectors of disease, posing significant challenges to cattle production and global food security. The overreliance on synthetic acaricides for control has led to resistance, environmental contamination, and health concerns, necessitating the exploration of eco-friendly alternatives. This study investigated the acaricidal potential of the ethyl acetate (EA) fraction of Xylopia aethiopica, a medicinal plant with a rich history of ethnoveterinary use, against cattle ticks. Phytochemical screening of the EA fraction revealed an abundance of bioactive compounds, including terpenoids, cardiac glycosides, alkaloids, flavonoids, and phenols. Bioassays were conducted to evaluate its effects on adult oviposition and antioxidant enzyme systems (GST, SOD, CAT) in cattle ticks.
The results demonstrated that the EA fraction significantly suppressed oviposition and induced weight loss in engorged adult ticks, indicating an impairment of reproductive physiology. Furthermore, a concentration-dependent depletion of key antioxidant enzymes (GST, SOD, CAT) was observed, suggesting the induction of oxidative stress as a primary mechanism of acaricidal action. The study concludes that the ethyl acetate fraction of Xylopia aethiopica possesses potent acaricidal properties against cattle ticks, effectively disrupting their reproduction and inducing oxidative damage. Its rich phytochemical profile supports a multi-targeted mode of action, reducing the likelihood of resistance development. These findings validate its traditional use and highlight its promise as a sustainable, botanical alternative to synthetic acaricides for integration into cattle tick management programs. Further research into the isolation of active compounds and in vivo efficacy is recommended.
Keywords: Xylopia aethiopica, acaricidal activity, ethyl acetate fraction, cattle ticks, oviposition, antioxidant enzymes, oxidative stress, botanical acaricide.
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