Evaluación de dos extractos naturales alternativos como métodos de control para garrapatas en bovinos.

Abstract

The objective of the study was to evaluate the effectiveness of natural extracts of Tithonia diversifolia and Azadirachta indica in the control of tick infestations of the genus Rhipicephalus microplus in cattle. Seven treatments were tested: T1 (pure extract of Tithonia diversifolia), T2 (diluted extract of Tithonia diversifolia), T3 (pure extract of Azadirachta indica), T4 (diluted extract of Azadirachta indica), T5 (Cypermethrin, positive control), T6 (distilled water, negative control) and T7 (70% alcohol). The methodology included obtaining pure and diluted extracts, applied in a design of large plots for treatments and small plots for times (24, 48, 72 and 96 hours). A regression model with Poisson distribution and sequential hypothesis test was used to analyze mortality rates (Rate) and efficiency of treatments. The results showed that the T2 treatment presented the highest average mortality rate (100%) and was the most effective in the first 24 hours. The interaction between time and treatment did not show statistical significance. In terms of bioactive compounds, T1 had the highest concentration of saponins and flavonoids, while T3 stood out for its alkaloid content. Natural extracts proved to be effective and sustainable alternatives to conventional methods of tick control, with Tithonia diversifolia standing out as the most promising treatment. These results support the implementation of agroecological strategies for pest management in livestock systems, reducing the use of chemicals and promoting more sustainable and environmentally friendly agricultural practices.