Ecological interactions affect the bioactivity of medicinal plants.

Essential oils produced by medicinal plants possess important bioactive properties (antibacterial, antioxidant) of high value for human society. Pollination and herbivory can modify the chemical defences of plants and therefore they may influence the bioactivity of essential oils. However, the effect of ecological interactions on plant bioactivity has not yet been evaluated.

Can Essential Oils Be a Natural Alternative for the Control of Spodoptera frugiperda? A Review of Toxicity Methods and Their Modes of Action.

is a major pest of maize crops. The application of synthetic insecticides and the use of Bt maize varieties are the principal strategies used for its control. However, due to the development of pesticide resistance and the negative impact of insecticides on the environment, natural alternatives are constantly being searched for.