Vernonia cinerea- A medicinal plant with pediculicidal activity.
Kshipra Jain1and Professor Rita S Majumdar2
1. Student of BS-MS ,Sharda University, School of Basic Science and Research, Sharda University
2. Professor, Department of Biotechnology, School of Science & Technology , Sharda University, 32, 34 Knowledge Park III
Greater Noida. UP. All correspondence should be with Prof. Rita S.Majumdar. E-mail : majumdar.rita@gmail.com,
Abstract:
Pediculus humanus capitis commonly known as head lice is an ectoparasite and pose great
public health significance in densely populated, overcrowded communities. They live on the skin
of the host and being prolific blood suckers, they have direct effects on their host. They may also
act as vectors and/or reservoirs in the transmission of pathogens of several infections to their
host causing allergic reactions, and restlessness especially among their human host
According to entomologists, any insect on over time can develop resistance to pesticides. Many
consumers, health professionals report that head lice have become resistant to pediculicides.
Head Louse Shampoos mostly available in the market comprise of Lindane which is a
neurotoxin. The Shampoos and creams in the market are mostly treated with chemicals which
make scalp itchy and also produces unpleasant smell. Therefore, there is an urgent need in
finding an alternative base for the natural products that are non-toxic for human scalp and can act
as active pediculicide.
Leaf extract of Vernonia cinerea, a naturally growing plant, can be used as eco-friendly tool for
integrated pest management. In our lab we found that the leaf extract of V. cinerea can
effectively be used in controlling the growth of the different stages of P.humanus capitis. The
extract restricts the growth of nits of P. humanus capitis by 88.3%, but restricts the growth of
nymphs by 91.65% and thus reduced the convergence to adults by 8.35%. By contact methods
V.cinerea extract could simulate mortality of head lice by 100% while by fumigation method
mortality rate was 80%.This experiments verifies the efficacy of eco-friendly, user friendly and
pocket friendly V.cinerea extract in controlling P.humanus capitis.
Keywords: Vernonia cinerea , Lice and Nits, Health concern, Pediculicidal activity, Pediculus
humanus capitis
