Research Suggests CBD Can Kill Mosquito Larvae
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New research has found that cannabidiol (CBD), a compound found in hemp, may be used to kill mosquito larvae. This research was based on prior studies that found mosquito-repellent properties in plants found in Madagascar.
The study’s lead author, Erick Martinez Rodriguez, was focused on targeting these pests in their larval stage. This, he explained, was when they are most vulnerable. The larvae are normally found in stationary water but can’t be eliminated using insecticides, because overusing these chemicals has built up their resistance while also causing harm to the environment.
To test the insecticidal potency of hemp, the researchers ground dried hemp leaves and soaked them in methanol, producing an extract. This extract bypassed the metabolic resistance of the larvae easily, a feat that hadn’t been possible with other insecticides.
The researchers discovered that CBD could eliminate the larvae in 48 hours. They observed that it was effective in strains of the mosquito known to cause yellow fever, including one that is resistant to traditional insecticides. Rodriguez revealed that only a small amount of the extract was needed to kill the larvae.
This finding calls into question the crop’s impact on nontarget species while also highlighting its use as a cost-effective plant to produce insecticides.
Professor Peter Piermarini, coauthor of the study, explained that CBD as a compound was safe for humans and companion animals to ingest. He added that it would be interesting to find out more about how cannabidiol interacted with different proteins in insects and mammals to understand why it was safe for humans but not insects.
In their report, the researchers note that more studies are needed to ensure the safety of cannabidiol for pollinators such as honeybees. Future research can also examine genetic engineering approaches to enhance the insecticide properties of hemp.
Now, the researchers are focused on optimizing the extraction process to ensure minimal environmental footprint and maximum efficiency.
On a general scale, it is important to understand how solutions infused with CBD may interact with ecosystems. Comprehensive research should look into any inadvertent consequences for nontarget aquatic species, to contribute to biodiversity maintenance. Additionally, scientists can work with environmental researchers to ensure that the benefits of this natural insecticide are maximized without impacting the balance of the ecological system.
The above study was supported by the College of Food, Agricultural and Environmental Sciences at The Ohio State University and the Infectious Diseases Institute. The researchers reported their findings in the “Insects” journal.
For entities that are engaged in the production of CBD and other hemp extracts, such as Software Effective Solutions Corp. (d/b/a MedCana) (OTC: SFWJ), the possibilities for how these compounds can be used seem to be nearly endless as this preliminary study shows.
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