In the cultivation of medicinal herbs, annual losses caused by pests and diseases can range from 10% to 30%, with severe outbreaks reaching up to 50%. In addition, the quality and appearance of these herbs often deteriorate. Due to their low toxicity, minimal environmental impact, and high safety profile, biopesticides have become a major trend in global pesticide development. Currently, over 80 types of pesticides are registered in China, including plant-based, microbial, antibiotic, and biochemical biopesticides. These biological alternatives effectively manage pests and diseases without harming beneficial insects, reducing the risk of resistance, and supporting sustainable agriculture and the production of eco-friendly herbal medicines that can easily enter international markets.
1. Bio-Pesticides
1.1 Bt Emulsion, derived from *Bacillus thuringiensis*, is an insecticidal bacterium that works primarily through ingestion. It is safe for humans, animals, and natural enemies, and does not harm medicinal plants. When ingested, it causes sepsis and leads to the death of pests such as moths, aphids, and caterpillars. Available formulations include wettable powders (10 billion spores per gram) and diluted solutions for use on various medicinal crops.
1.2 Abamectin, also known as Qixinsu or Nonghaha, is a broad-spectrum macrolide antibiotic effective against insects, mites, and nematodes. It acts both through contact and ingestion, and is highly safe for humans and livestock. Commonly used at concentrations of 1.8% or 1.0% emulsifiable concentrate, it is diluted 2000–5000 times and applied to control pests like aphids and leaf miners on medicinal plants.
1.3 *Beauveria bassiana* is a fungal insecticide that infects pests upon contact. The spores germinate, penetrate the insect's body, and eventually cause death. Available in powder form with 10 or 100 billion spores per gram, it is effective against pests such as bean beetles, leafhoppers, and cockroaches.
1.4 Insect virus preparations are highly specific and do not disrupt ecological balance. They form inclusion bodies, are stable, and are toxic only to target pests. Examples include the cabbage beetle nuclear polyhedrosis virus and the cotton bollworm nuclear polyhedrosis virus. These viruses are safe for humans, livestock, and aquatic life, and provide excellent results in pest control on medicinal plants.
1.5 Diflubenzuron is an insect growth regulator that inhibits chitin synthesis in larvae, leading to their death. It is mainly stomach toxic and has low toxicity to humans, animals, and beneficial insects. Formulated as a suspension concentrate, it is diluted 1500–2000 times and used to control moth and caterpillar infestations.
1.6 Imidacloprid, a neonicotinoid insecticide, is effective against a wide range of pests, including aphids and leaf rollers. It acts as a contact and systemic poison, disrupting nerve function and causing paralysis. Available in 2.5% and 10% wettable powder forms, it is diluted 2000–6000 times and widely used in medicinal herb cultivation.
1.7 Nicotine, extracted from tobacco, is a contact and fumigant insecticide. It affects the nervous system of pests and is safe for plants but has some toxicity to humans and livestock. Typically used as a 40% aqueous solution, it is diluted 800–1000 times and applied to control aphids and other sucking pests.
1.8 Other biological insecticides include Liuyangmycin, Huaguangmycin, Pentazol, cypermethrin, and matrine, among others.
2. Bio-Disinfectants
2.1 Agricultural anti-120 is a low-toxicity, environmentally friendly product that promotes plant growth and controls fungal diseases. It is available in 2% and 4% water-soluble formulations and is sprayed at a 200-fold dilution to prevent powdery mildew and other fungal infections.
2.2 Polyoxine is a broad-spectrum antifungal agent with low toxicity and no residue. It is effective against various fungal diseases and is used in 1.5% and 10% wettable powder forms, diluted 500–1000 times to control diseases like gray mold and downy mildew.
2.3 Wuyimycin BO-10 is a broad-spectrum bactericide with strong systemic absorption. It is effective against fungi and bacteria and is safe for humans, livestock, and beneficial organisms.
2.4 Agricultural streptomycin is used to control bacterial diseases in medicinal plants. It is a systemic fungicide, available as a 10% wettable powder, and is diluted 500–2000 times for application. However, it is toxic to fish.
2.5 Other bio-disinfectants include Jinggangmycin, Kasugamycin, Trichoderma, and oxytetracycline.
3. Proper Application Methods
3.1 Concentrated application of bacterial insecticides requires precise dosing, typically around 2200–2500 g of viable spores per hectare. For large or overlapping pest populations, more frequent applications may be necessary. For example, Bt should be applied every 10–15 days for diamondback moths and every 5–6 days for other pests.
3.2 Uniform spraying is essential for maximizing effectiveness. Before mixing, dry formulations should be stirred into a paste with a small amount of water, then diluted appropriately. Emulsions must be shaken well before use. Adding a small amount of detergent or saponin can improve adhesion and coverage.
3.3 Correct formulation and combination use are important. Mixing different biopesticides can enhance efficacy, especially during heavy infestations. However, avoid mixing with alkaline products, organophosphates, or fungicides. Always mix and use immediately.
4. Usage Precautions
Biopesticides offer numerous benefits, including low toxicity and environmental safety. However, their effectiveness depends on proper application conditions. Key considerations include:
4.1 Temperature: Spraying should occur when temperatures are above 20°C. At lower temperatures, spore activity decreases, and the insecticidal effect is reduced. Experiments show that at 25–30°C, the efficacy is 1–2 times higher than at 10–15°C.
4.2 Humidity: High humidity improves the performance of biopesticides, especially for powdered formulations. Spores thrive in moist environments, so spraying should be done in humid conditions.
4.3 Avoid Direct Sunlight: UV rays can damage spores. Spraying after 4 PM or on cloudy days helps preserve spore viability and enhances effectiveness.
4.4 Avoid Heavy Rain: Heavy rainfall can wash away the pesticide, reducing its efficacy. Light rain, however, can promote spore germination. Monitoring weather forecasts is crucial to ensure optimal application timing.
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