NAGA NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL

Special Program in Science, Technology and Engineering

“Exploring Lemongrass Leaves Extract as an Eco-Friendly Insect Repellent for

Acacia Trees: A Study on Ant Control Efficacy”

Macahis,Tyrese Haden B.

Researcher

Submitted in Partial Fulfilment in the Requirements in Research II

LIZELDA MANCAO LUCERNAS

Research Adviser

Date of Submission

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 Table Of Contents

Abstract ………...………..……….………………………..………..…………..… 1

Ⅰ. Introduction ………………………………………………………………………… 1-4

Background of the Study ………...………..……….……………..…………..… 3-4

Statement of the Problem ………...………..……….……………..………….… 5

Significance of the Study .…………………………………………………………5-6

II. Methodology …….………………………………………………………... 7-9

III.Results and Discussions ……..….…………………………………………… 10-11

IV. Conclusion ……………………………………………………………………….… 10

V. Bibliography …………………………………………………………………….. 10

VI. Acknowledgement……………………………………………………………….
 Abstract

This study looks at the possibility of using extract from lemongrass leaves as a natural

insect repellent to shield Acacia plants against ant infestations. Antic colony threats can jeopardize

the development and health of acacia trees, which are essential to many ecosystems. Conventional

pesticides for ant control might be harmful to the environment. Thus, investigating environmentally

suitable substitutes becomes essential. Known for its ability to repel insects, lemongrass presents a

viable path. In order to determine if lemongrass extract is effective at reducing ant activity around

Acacia trees, this study conducts a number of tests. In order to ascertain the repellent's effectiveness

and ecological impact, methods include chemical studies, field testing, and laboratory experiments.

The results show that lemongrass extract has the potential to be a sustainable solution for managing

insects in agroecosystems, as seen by the large decreases in ant presence. There is a discussion of

the implications for biodiversity conservation and sustainable agriculture, emphasizing the value of

using natural pest management methods that don't hurt the ecosystem.
 Introduction

I. Background of the Study

The gum arabic that acacia trees yield is used to create adhesives, medications,

inks, and other items. Tannin is extracted from the bark and used in colors. Acacia trees

have lovely blossoms, which is why many people plant them in gardens. One kind of

acacia tree's blooms are used to produce perfume in France. Since most desert wildlife

depends on acacia trees for food and shade, either directly or indirectly, they are usually

considered as keystone species. Ants are one of the insects that can harm Acacia trees

despite their lovely characteristics. They have been shown to have a positive influence on

soil chemistry as nitrogen fixers and boost productivity of herbaceous understory.

Like other insects, fire ants have six legs, a strong exoskeleton for protection, and a

reddish-black coloring. Worker ants have spherical heads with mandibles, a midsection

made up of the pedicle and the gaster, and an armored thorax. The hue of the head is

usually copper colored. Fire ants are known to be ferocious predators that may cause

direct harm to plant tissues. They could consume the leaves, stems, and even the roots of

the acacia tree. The tree may get weaker as a result of this feeding habit and become more

vulnerable to other stresses like illnesses and environmental conditions.

II. Statement of the Problem

Ant infestations are a common problem for acacia trees, which are essential to

many ecosystems but can have a negative impact on their growth and well-being. Conventional

pesticides have little effectiveness and may be hazardous to the environment when applied to

reduce ant activity. Therefore, it is imperative to investigate more sustainable alternatives for

managing ant populations around Acacia tree.

 The purpose of this study is to determine how effective an extract from lemongrass

leaves is as a natural insect repellent, particularly for preventing ant infestations on Acacia trees.

The following inquiries are the focus of the study:

1)How effective is lemongrass leaves extract in repelling ants from Acacia trees?

2)What are the ecological implications of using lemongrass extract as an insect repellent in

Acacia tree ecosystems?

3)How does the efficacy of lemongrass extract compare to conventional insecticides in

controlling ant populations around Acacia trees?

III. Significance of the Study

1) Sustainable Pest Management: An environmentally friendly substitute for

traditional chemical pesticides is the extract from lemongrass leaves, which is being researched

as an insect repellant. This work makes a valuable contribution to the development of

ecologically friendly pest management techniques that minimize negative impacts on

ecosystems and human health by proving the efficacy of suppressing ant populations around

Acacia plants.

2) Preserving the Health of Acacia Trees: Acacia trees are essential to many

ecosystems because they offer food, shelter, and ecosystem services. Ant infestations have the

potential to negatively affect ecosystem stability by compromising the health and vitality of

Acacia trees. This research contributes to biodiversity conservation efforts by maintaining the

resilience and health of Acacia tree populations through the discovery of an efficient repellant.

3) The use of lemongrass extract is consistent with the rising trend in agriculture and

pest control toward natural alternatives. This study encourages the use of sustainable, bio-based

alternatives that lessen dependency on synthetic chemicals and support ecological balance by

utilizing the repelling qualities of a naturally occurring plant extract.

 4) Ecological Implications: Understanding how lemongrass extract affects non-target

animals and ecosystem dynamics on an ecological level will help determine how well it works

with natural systems. To ensure that its application in agricultural contexts is sustainable over

the long run, it is crucial to comprehend how it affects beneficial insects, soil microbes, and the

holistic health of ecosystems.

5) Engagement of the Community and Stakeholders: The research's conclusions can

help farmers, land managers, conservationists, and legislators adopt strategies that support

sustainable agriculture and ecosystem preservation. This study provides the necessary

information for stakeholders to make well-informed decisions that prioritize environmental

stewardship by proving the effectiveness and ecological advantages of lemongrass extract.

Methodology

1)Preparation of the Materials

Lemongrass leaves were harvested at the back of our house, while the spray bottle was

recycled from an old alcohol spray bottle. The acacia tree that was used for the application of

lemongrass leaves extract is also at the back of our house.

2) Extraction of the Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) leaves.

Harvest fresh lemongrass leaves and stems. Wash them thoroughly to remove any dirt or

impurities.Airdry the leaves within a week. Chop the lemongrass into small pieces. Use a

blender to crush the lemongrass and mix the blended leaves(20g) with ethanol(200mL) then

leave the mixture for 24 hours.Filter the mixture using filter paper and wait until no more liquid

will drop.
3) Setting Up the Experiment

The Acacia leaves was divided into two parts which is the experimental and control group.

4) Application of Lemongrass Leaves Extract

Before applying to the whole plant, it is recommended to test some leaves with the solution

prepared by yourself, wait 48 hours and check the damage. If the leaves are burned or browned,

dilute the solution and make another test.If its not, then apply the lemongrass extract to the

leaves of the plants in the experimental group using a spray bottle or brush. Ensure thorough

coverage of all parts of the leaves.Let it exposed for 24 hours to allow the leaves to absorb the

beneficial properties of the extract fully.

5) Observation and Data Collection

Monitor both the control group and experimental group every 12 hours. Record any changes

in ants infestation levels on both sets of Acacia leaves. Note any visible effects on the leaves

themselves, such as the leaves health.

6)Analysis of Results

Compare the ants infestation levels between the control group (untreated) and experimental

group (treated with lemongrass extract). Assess whether there is a noticeable difference in ants

presence on the Acacia leaves treated with lemongrass extract compared to those that were not

treated.

7)Repeating the Experiment

To ensure accuracy, consider repeating the experiment three times with different sets of

leaves. This will help validate the results and confirm if lemongrass extract is consistently

effective as an insect repellent for ants on Acacia leaves.

 Results and Discussions

The findings of the study revealed and with supporting evidence that shows the effectiveness of

using lemongrass leaves extract as a natural insect repellent for Acacia leaves from fire ants.

First Trial:

Expermental Group

After 12 hours of applying the lemongrass leaf extract,the fire ants were lessened, and

some parts of the leaves were eaten by them.Ten hours passed, and there were no fire ants left in

the leaves.

Control Group

After 12 hours,some parts of the leaves were eaten while the number of fire ants kept

increasing.Ten hours passed, and many parts of the leaves were eaten by the fire ants.

Second Trial:

Experimental Group

After 12 hours of applying the lemongrass leaves extract,the fire ants were lessened and

only small parts of the leaves were eaten by them.Ten hours passed,and there were no fire ants

left in the leaves.

Control Group

After 12 hours,some parts of the leaves were eaten while the number of fire ants kept

increasing.Ten hours passed, and many parts of the leaves were eaten by the fire ants.
Third Trial:

Experimental Group

After 12 hours of applying the lemongrass leaves extract,the fire ants were lessened and only

small parts of the leaves were eaten by them.Ten hours passed,and there were no fire ants left in the

leaves.

Control Group

After 12 hours,some parts of the leaves were eaten while the number of fire ants kept

increasing.Ten hours passed, and many parts of the leaves were eaten by the fire ants.

Conclusion

After the 3 trials that consumes 24 hours each trial,It proves that lemongrass leaves extract is

effective as an alternative insect repellent for Acacia leaves against fire ants.It has supporting

evidence such as pictures that clearly shows the effect of the lemongrass leaves extract as an insect

repellent.

Bibliography

Adhedsives-able to stick fast to a surface or object

Conventional-based on or in accordance with what is generally done or believed

Agroecosystem-communities of plants and animals interacting with their physical and chemical

environments that have been modified by people to produce food, fibre, fuel and other products for

human consumption and processing

Repellent-able to repel a particular thing; impervious to a particular substance.

Herbaceous-of, denoting, or relating to herbs

Mandibles-a bone that makes up the lower – and typically more mobile – component of the mouth

Implication-the action or state of being involved in something

Imperative-of vital importance; crucial.

Legislators-a person who makes laws especially for a political unit.

Conservationist-a person who advocates or acts for the protection and preservation of the

environment and wildlife.

Acknowledgement

I would like to express my deepest gratitude to my family, God, and friends for their

unwavering support and guidance throughout my research journey. Their encouragement, love, and

belief in me have been the pillars that sustained me during the challenging times and propelled me

forward towards achieving my goals.

To my family, thank you for being my constant source of strength and motivation. Your

understanding, patience, and encouragement have been invaluable to me. I am grateful for your

unwavering support, whether it was lending an ear to listen to my ideas or providing practical

assistance when needed. Your belief in me has been a driving force behind my research endeavors,

and I am truly blessed to have such a loving and supportive family by my side.

I am immensely thankful to God for guiding me through this research journey. Your

divine presence has provided me with comfort in times of uncertainty and clarity when faced with

challenges. I believe that your grace has illuminated my path and led me towards new discoveries

and insights. I am grateful for the blessings you have bestowed upon me, allowing me to persevere

and grow both personally and academically.

To my friends, thank you for standing by me with unwavering loyalty and

encouragement. Your belief in my abilities, words of wisdom, and shared laughter have made this

research experience more fulfilling and enjoyable. Your friendship has been a source of joy and

inspiration, reminding me that I am never alone in this pursuit of knowledge. I cherish the memories

we have created together and look forward to many more shared successes in the future.