The Application and Challenges of Essential Oils as Natural Pesticides

Throughout nowadays era, humans and the environment have been exposed to various chemicals from high-technology systems. Among those, the substances that could affect human health, disrupt the environment, and soil quality are pesticides. Pesticides are used to protect crops and livestock from pest infestations. However, improper usage or higher dosages used to kill insects might also pose potential risks to food safety, living creatures, soil performance, and humans. Essential oils (EO) were known as natural pesticides without the addition of dangerous chemicals. However, the issue arises when it involves human health and environmental risks with the wrong dosage of EO and concentration used in pesticides. Therefore, this article aims to elaborate on the nature of essential oils as natural pesticides, their classification, the potential risks of EO, and future perspectives on the usage of EO as natural pesticides. It is also suggested for biopesticides in the future.