Bandotan (Ageratum conyzoides) is an invasive tropical plant species known to contain diverse bioactive compounds with potential application in pest management. Previous studies have highlighted its antimicrobial properties; however, its potential as a natural anti-termite agent has not been extensively explored. The subterranean termite Coptotermes curvignathus is one of the most destructive termite species affecting wooden structures. The purpose of this study was to identify bioactive compounds in bandotan leaf extract using the thin-layer chromatography (TLC) method and to analyze the inhibitory power of the extract against termite attacks. The leaves were extracted using the maceration method with ethanol as the solvent. The bioactive compounds were identified through TLC. The anti-termite activity was evaluated using both in vitro and in vivo assays. The in vitro assay employed filter paper treated with varying extract concentrations, while the in vivo assay utilized rubberwood (Hevea brasiliensis) samples subjected to different extract concentrations and hot-soaking durations. Termite mortality and wood degradation were observed to determine treatment efficacy. TLC analysis confirmed the presence of several bioactive constituents, including steroids, sterols, terpenoids, phenols, saponins, flavonoids, and alkaloids. The in vitro assay revealed that termite mortality increased proportionally with extract concentration, reaching 80% mortality at a 5% concentration. In the in vivo assay, both extract concentration and soaking duration significantly affected termite mortality, with complete (100%) mortality achieved at a 10% concentration and a 6-hour soaking duration. The findings indicate that bandotan leaf extract possesses strong potential as a natural anti-termite agent against C. curvignathus.
Diba et al. (Sun,) studied this question.