Trichilia claussenii (Meliaceae): A Review of Its Biological and Phytochemical Activities and a Case Study of Composition

The intensive use of chemical pesticides has significantly impacted the environment and human health, encouraging the search for more sustainable and environmentally safe pest management strategies. In this context, botanical pesticides emerge as a promising solution, distinguished by their natural origin and lower toxicity. Although botanical insecticides have demonstrated their potential, these solutions are still little explored in scientific and technological terms, representing an expanding field to develop safer agricultural biological pesticides. The Meliaceae family, especially the Trichilia genus, has been recognized for its richness in bioactive compounds with insecticidal potential. However, Trichilia claussenii remains little studied, despite its occurrence in Brazilian ecosystems. Therefore, this article aims to analyze the information on the botanical and phytochemical characteristics and bioinsecticidal activity of T. claussenii, aiming to highlight its potential as a natural resource for biological pest control. The leaf and fruit extracts of T. claussenii revealed the presence of bioactive metabolites. The group of terpenes is highlighted, notable for their role in the chemical defense of plants and for their recognized insecticidal activity. In the leaf extract, terpenes were the most abundant class, representing 46.3% of the total identified. In the fruit extract, terpenes were also prominent, although to a lesser extent (34.5%). Additionally, a phytochemical screening of the aqueous leaf extract indicated the presence of coumarins, flavonoids, and alkaloids, compounds commonly associated with insecticidal activity. By consolidating this knowledge, we aim to encourage new research and the development of a botanical bioinsecticide based on this species.