Fractionation, Derivatization and Termiticidal Activity of Cashew (Anacardium occidentale L.) Nut Shell Liquid Against the Philippine Milk Termite (Coptotermes vastator Light)

Edison  Boongaling; Menandro  Acda; Hidelisa  Hernandez; Ernesto  del Rosario

Edison Boongaling Institute of Chemistry, College of Arts and Sciences, University of the Philippines Los Baños, College, Laguna, Philippines
Menandro Acda Department of Forest Products and Paper Science, College of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of the Philippines Los Baños, College, Laguna, Philippines
Hidelisa Hernandez Institute of Chemistry, College of Arts and Sciences, University of the Philippines Los Baños, College, Laguna, Philippines
Ernesto del Rosario Institute of Chemistry, College of Arts and Sciences, University of the Philippines Los Baños, College, Laguna, Philippines

Keywords: anacardic acid, cashew nut shell liquid, cardanol, Coptotermes vastator, methyl anacardate, termites, toxicity

Abstract

Cashew (Anacardium occidentale L.) nut shell liquid (CNSL) from the Philippines and its phenolicconstituents or derivatives, viz., anacardic acid, cardanol and methyl anacardate, were tested for theirtermiticidal activity against the Philippine milk termite (Coptotermes vastator Light) (Isoptera:Rhinotermitidae). Results of the study showed that natural CNSL, anacardic acid, cardanol and methylanacardate have repellent or toxic effects on C. vastator. Behavior of termites exposed to soil treatedwith CNSL showed reduced tunneling activity and increased mortality. Toxic or repellent thresholds ofcardanol and methyl anacardate were comparable to those of other plant extracts such as terpenesand essential oils.