Processes for the extraction of volatiles of neem cake using hydro-distillation procedure and enrichment of inert carriers is developed. Release of volatiles in cropped area at regular intervals through inert carriers is highly effective in repelling diamond backmoth of cabbage and other insect pests of horticultural crops. Volatile compounds, namely, caryophyllene oxide, limonene, linalool and 1-hexanol identified in the volatile fraction are found to be responsible for insect repellant action of neem cake.
A patent has been filed on the process for use of neem volatiles to repel insects. As the process is based on plant based organic extract, which is effective, economical and eco-friendly, the product could be used in organic crop production.
