Toxicity and enzymatic activity changes in rice weevil (Sitophilus oryzae) induced by basil (Ocimum basilicum) and cumin (Cuminum cyminum) essential oils.

The rice weevil Sitophilus oryzae is one of the primary insects that infest stored grains, causing both quantitative and qualitative losses. The use of synthetic pesticides to control it has led to the emergence of several problems related to human health and the environment, which has prompted the search for safer alternatives for their control. In this study, the effectiveness of two essential oils, cumin (Cuminum cyminum) and basil (Ocimum basilicum), was evaluated as insecticides for controlling the rice weevil at three different times intervals and various concentrations.