Herbal-Fortified Adjuvant Wood Block for Stored Grain Protection and Method of Preparation Thereof

Abstract

The present invention related to an eco-friendly pest repellent composition and article for protecting stored grains from infestation by pests such as Callosobruchus spp. The composition comprises botanicals including cuminaldehyde, elaidic acid, monounsaturated omega-9 fatty acid, plant glycosides, and caryophyllene; essential oils such as patchouli oil, peppermint oil, linalool, citronellol, and carvacrol; and excipients like sodium salt stearic acid and gum arabica. The composition exhibits repellent and antifeedant activity, ensuring effective pest control while being residue-free, biodegradable, and safe for humans and the environment. The composition can be used as a slurry, tablet, or block and is particularly suited for impregnation into a wooden block made from veneer plywood, enabling gradual release of active compounds for prolonged protection of stored grains. The invention offers a sustainable alternative to synthetic pesticides, maintaining the quality and nutritional value of grains while preventing economic losses due to pest infestations.

Specification

Description:
Field of the Invention:
[0001] The present invention related to the field of eco - friendly pest control
and storage protection, more specifically it related to an herbal-fortified
adjuvant wood block for the protection of stored grains from pest
infestations. The invention further related to the method of preparation of
such wood blocks infused with a blend of botanical oils for long-lasting,
eco-friendly protection.

Background of the Invention:
[0002] Stored grains, particularly pulses, are highly susceptible to
infestations by storage pests, such as the pulse beetle (Callosobruchus spp.).
These pests can cause significant economic losses, reducing the quality and
quantity of stored grains by feeding on them and contaminating them with
larvae, droppings, and eggs.
[0003] According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), storage
pests contribute to significant post-harvest losses, particularly in
developing countries, with estimated losses ranging from 10% to 30% of
stored grains, depending on the region and type of storage system used. For
pulses, these losses can be as high as 50% in tropical climates where storage
pests thrive more Impact of Pulse Beetle Infestation.
[0004] Callosobruchus chinensis, commonly known as the pulse beetle or
adzuki bean weevil, is a small beetle measuring about 5 mm in length as an
adult. The adults are brown with black and grey patches. Females have a
white abdomen with two oval black spots, while the larvae are yellowish
white with reduced legs. The pupae are dark brown and pupation occurs
inside the legume. This species exhibits sexual dimorphism, with females
being larger and heavier than males, and both adults and larvae can cause
significant damage to stored pulses. The larvae bore into the pulses,

consuming the kernel and leaving behind hollow cavities. This not only
reduces the weight and quality of the grains but also makes them unfit for
consumption. The adults create exit holes when they emerge, further
compromising the integrity of the seeds. Common hosts include chickpea,
pigeon pea, green gram, black gram, lentil, and cowpea.
[0005] The extensive damage caused by this pest leads to substantial
economic losses in the pulse industry. Scientific studies have shown that
Callosobruchus chinensis can cause up to 55.7% damage in severe infestations,
significantly reducing the market value and germination potential of the
affected seeds. The pest's life cycle includes egg, grub, pupae, and adult
stages, with the entire cycle ranging from 33 to 42 days. The larvae and
pupae develop inside the seeds, leading to a reduction in both the quality
and quantity of the stored pulses. Additionally, the presence of this pest
necessitates increased storage costs due to the need for additional pest
control measures
[0006] Conventional methods to control such infestations often rely on
chemical insecticides or fumigants, which, while effective, pose risks to
human health and the environment. Moreover, chemical residues in food
products are increasingly scrutinized by consumers and regulatory bodies
due to concerns about safety and environmental impact. Growing
consumer and regulatory demand for chemical-free food storage solutions
has led to a significant shift towards botanical-based pest control.
[0007] In response to these issues, botanical repellents have gained attention
as safer, eco-friendly alternatives for pest management. Essential oils
derived from plants like neem (Azadirachta indica) contain compounds
with natural insect-repellent properties. While botanical oils have shown
significant potential as natural repellents, their efficacy in pest control often
faces challenges in practical applications. Issues such as rapid evaporation,
inconsistent potency, and limited duration of effectiveness hinder their use,
especially in long-term storage scenarios. Many natural repellents fail to
deliver sustained results, as they lose effectiveness over time, allowing pests
to adapt or evade the repellent's effects.
[0008] Therefore, a need exists for an invention that addresses these
limitations by developing a formulation that focuses on an insect
behaviour-based mechanism, which enhances its efficacy specifically for
stored grain protection, and a method for incorporating these botanical oils
into a practical, user-friendly form that ensures effective and sustained
protection.

Objects of the Invention:
[0009] An object of the present disclosure is to provide an eco-friendly pest
control article that effectively repels storage pests without the use of
synthetic insecticides.
[0010] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a non
insecticidal pest control solution made from natural, botanical sources that
ensures safety for humans and the environment.
[0011] Another object of the present disclosure is to offer a pest control
article that uses essential oils to create a residue-free and non-toxic
repellent, addressing storage pest issues economically and sustainably.
[0012] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a pest control
article specifically targeting pulse beetles (Callosobruchus spp.) to prevent
post-harvest losses in stored pulses.
[0013] Another object of the present disclosure is to create a pest control
solution that maintains the quality and nutritional value of stored pulses by
preventing infestations and damage caused by storage pests.

[0014] Another object of the present disclosure is to offer a article composed
of a natural wooden block impregnated with botanical oils, providing a
long-lasting and effective pest-repellent solution.
[0015] Another object of the present disclosure is to prevent significant
economic losses in the pulse industry by offering a natural, residue-free pest
control solution that effectively safeguards stored pulses from pest
infestations.

Summary of the Invention:
[0016] According to the present invention, it related to an eco-friendly,
botanical-based pest control article specifically designed to protect stored
grains and pulses from Callosobruchus spp., commonly known as the pulse
beetle. The invention comprises a wooden block or article made from
plywood, impregnated with a blend of essential oils selected for their pest
repellent activity. This article is crafted to release the botanical oils
gradually over time, providing an effective, long-lasting, and non-toxic pest
control solution.
[0017] An aspect of the present disclosure provides a composition for
effecting pest repellent activity in stored grains. The composition comprises
at least one botanical selected from a group consisting of cuminaldehyde,
elaidic acid (oleic acid), monounsaturated omega-9 fatty acid (gondoic
acid), plant glycosides (p-cymene), and caryophyllene. It further includes at
least one essential oil selected from patchouli oil, peppermint oil, linalool,
citronellol, and carvacrol. Additional components, such as the sodium salt
of stearic acid (fatty acid), gum arabica, and plywood, are also part of the
composition. The composition exhibits effective pest repellent activity
against bruchids and storage pests, including Callosobruchus chinensis.
[0018] In an embodiment, the at least one botanical is in an amount ranging
from about 50% to about 80% by weight of the composition. In an
embodiment, the at least one essential oil is in an amount ranging from
about 5% to about 20% by weight of the composition.
[0019] In an embodiment, the excipient comprises plywood as an inert
material, which is impregnated with the formulation for use in different
sizes to accommodate varying quantities of stored pulses. Variations in
block size range from smaller units for household storage to larger blocks
suitable for commercial or bulk storage, ensuring effective pest control
across different storage environments.
[0020] The invention offers multiple advantages, including being residue
free, biodegradable, and safe for human handling, with no adverse impact
on the quality or taste of stored food products. In another embodiment, the
article is free from artificial preservatives and synthetic pesticides, further
enhancing its environmental compatibility.

Detailed description of the invention:
[0021] The following description provides detailed embodiments of the
present invention, offering examples of how the principles of the invention
can be implemented. These embodiments are illustrative and not restrictive,
serving to clarify the invention.
[0022] The present invention relates to an eco-friendly, botanical-based pest
control article designed to protect stored grains and pulses, particularly
from pests like Callosobruchus spp. (pulse beetles). The invention comprises
a wooden article, preferably a wooden block made of plywood,
impregnated with a blend of essential oils. These oils are selected for their
effective pest-repellent properties, gradually released over time to offer
prolonged protection.

[0023] The composition of the pest control article includes at least one
botanical compound selected from a group consisting of Cuminaldehyde,
Elaidic acid (oleic acid), Monounsaturated omega-9 fatty acid (gondoic
acid), Plant glycosides (p-cymene), Caryophyllene. It further includes at
least one essential oil selected from patchouli oil, peppermint oil, linalool,
citronellol, and carvacrol. Additional components, such as the sodium salt
of stearic acid (fatty acid), gum arabica, and plywood, are also part of the
composition. The composition exhibits effective pest repellent activity
against bruchids and storage pests, including Callosobruchus chinensis.
[0024] In one embodiment, the botanical component is in an amount
ranging from about 50% to about 80% by weight of the total composition.
The essential oils are typically present in an amount ranging from about 5%
to about 20% by weight of the composition. These ranges are chosen to
ensure the optimal concentration of active ingredients while maintaining a
balanced formulation for effective pest repellent activity.
[0025] The excipient in the composition comprises plywood, which serves
as an inert material. This plywood is impregnated with the botanical oils
and serves as a controlled-release carrier. The composition is adaptable to
different storage environments, with various sizes of the wooden article
available for household or commercial storage. The size of the block can
vary to accommodate different quantities of stored pulses, ensuring
effective pest control across various storage conditions.
[0026] The composition is free from artificial preservatives and synthetic
pesticides, aligning with the eco-friendly nature of the product. The
formulation is biodegradable, residue-free, and safe for human handling,
making it an ideal solution for pest control in food storage.
[0027] In an embodiment, the at least one botanical compound is in liquid
form, which ensures uniform impregnation into the plywood. The natural
oils provide long-lasting protection without any negative impact on the
taste or quality of the stored grains. The article can be used to treat stored
grains in bulk or in smaller quantities for household use.
[0028] The composition is formulated with the help of excipients such as
gum arabica, which acts as a slow-release agent for the botanical oils. This
ensures the controlled and gradual release of active ingredients, providing
consistent protection over an extended period.
[0029] The method of preparation involves mixing the selected botanical
compounds and essential oils with the appropriate excipients, followed by
impregnation into the plywood. The mixture is carefully blended to ensure
even distribution of the oils, which are then absorbed by the wood, allowing
for long-term pest control.
[0030] While the embodiments described above provide specific examples
of the botanical and essential oil compositions, it is to be understood that
other botanicals, oils, and excipients may also be used without departing
from the scope of the invention. The invention may be further adapted for
various formulations and applications, including as tablets or slurry
formulations, depending on the desired form of the product.
[0031] The above examples are provided for the purpose of illustration, and
those skilled in the art will appreciate that numerous modifications and
variations are possible within the scope of the present invention. The
invention is not limited to the specific examples and embodiments
disclosed, but instead is defined by the claims that follow.

Example 1: Preparation of a repellent formulation including Botanicals
and Essential oils
[0032] The formulation including, 30% Cuminaldehyde, 10% Elaidic
acid/Oleic acid, 10% Monounsaturated omega-9 fatty acid, or Gondoic acid
were combined and blended for 2 minutes using an electric blender to
achieve a uniform mixture. In a separate container, about 10% Plant
glycosides, 10% p-Cymene, 10% Caryophyllene, 2% Patchouli oil, 2%
Peppermint oil, 2% Linalool, 2% Citronellol, and 1.5% Carvacrol were
blended until fully integrated. The botanical and essential oil blend was
then added to the initial mixture of acids and fatty acids and thoroughly
blended, creating a cohesive formulation suitable for pest control
applications.
Insect Repellent Study:
[0033] The efficacy of the formulation prepared in Example 1 was evaluated
through laboratory assays using adult pulse beetles (Callosobruchus spp.).
Initial tests involved exposing the beetles to the formulation, where it was
observed that feeding activity ceased, and breeding was effectively
inhibited. Eggs laid by the beetles did not hatch, and in instances where a
minimal percentage of eggs did hatch, the grubs failed to survive or cause
any damage to stored pulses. These results demonstrate the formulation's
effectiveness as a repellent, providing significant protection against pulse
beetle infestations
Example 2: Preparation of a repellent formulation including Botanicals,
Essential oils and Gum arabica
[0034] With the formulation (as prepared in Example 1), 0.5% Gum Arabic
was gradually incorporated for ensuring the even distribution throughout
the formulation. Following this, 20% sodium salt stearic acid/fatty acid was
added to the solution, and the entire mixture was blended for an additional
5 minutes using an electric blender. This blending process ensured
uniformity in the final composition, optimizing the formulation's
consistency and effectiveness for pest control applications.
Example 3 - Preparation of a pest controlling article using repellent
formulation and wooden block
[0035] The fortification process involved impregnating wooden blocks with
a standardized quantity of the herbal repellent blend (as prepared in
Example 2). For each square centimetre of the block's surface area, 1 ml of
the herbal formulation was applied. The block's length, breadth, and height
were measured to calculate its total surface area, determining the necessary
amount of repellent.
[0036] The wooden blocks used for this impregnation process consisted of
5-7 veneer plywood, selected for its durability and absorbent qualities. The
impregnation process involved immersing the wooden blocks in the herbal
formulation, ensuring thorough penetration of the blend into the wood
fibers. The blocks remained submerged for 24 hours, allowing complete
absorption and uniform distribution of the repellent throughout the wood.
[0037] Following the 24-hour immersion, the blocks were removed from the
solution and placed on an aluminum tray. They were then dried under a
fan for 2-4 hours, a step crucial for securing the repellent within the wood
and enhancing its longevity. This impregnation process resulted in
uniformly fortified wooden blocks with optimal repellency for use against
storage pests, suitable for various storage scenarios.

Efficacy Study:
[0038] The efficacy of the product (as prepared in Example 3) was evaluated
against pulse beetles across different types of pulses through laboratory
experiments. The results indicated complete protection, with no signs of
infestation. The beetles stopped feeding and breeding, resulting in zero
damage to the pulses in all tests
Shelf-life study:
[0039] The wooden block (as prepared in Example 3) was subjected to
accelerated stability testing to determine shelf-life under challenging
conditions. The blocks were placed in an environmental chamber
maintained at 28±2°C and 80% relative humidity (RH), with a 12-hour light
and 12-hour dark cycle. For controlled testing, the blocks were stored at
room temperature in sealed containers to prevent exposure to light.
Samples were removed at intervals of 0, 30, 60, and 90 days, and analysed
to assess the retention of active ingredients.
[0040] Results indicated that the repellent formulation remained stable,
with no significant loss of active components over the testing period,
demonstrating prolonged efficacy for up to two years under standard
storage conditions.

, Claims:We claim,
1. A composition for pest repellent activity in stored grains, said
composition comprising:
a) at least one botanical selected from a group consisting of
cuminaldehyde, elaidic acid/oleic acid, monounsaturated omega-9
fatty acid(gondoic acid), plant glycosides(p-cymene), and
caryophyllene;
b) at least one essential oil selected from a group consisting of patchouli
oil, peppermint oil, linalool, citronellol, and carvacrol; and
c) at least one excipient selected from Sodium salt stearic acid (fatty
acid), Gum arabica, and a carrier
d) wherein said composition exhibits repellent and antifeedant activity
against Callosobruchus spp., ensuring the protection of stored
grains.
2. The composition as claimed in claim 1, wherein said at least one
botanical is in an amount ranging from about 50% to about 80% by
weight of the composition.
3. The composition as claimed in claim 1, wherein said at least one
essential oil is in an amount ranging from about 5% to about 20% by
weight of the composition.
4. The composition as claimed in claim 1, wherein said excipient is
selected from sodium salt stearic acid, gum Arabic, or combinations
thereof, in an amount ranging from about 20% to about 25% by
weight of the composition.
5. The composition as claimed in claim 1, wherein said botanicals
include cuminaldehyde in an amount ranging from about 25% to
about 35% by weight of the composition.
6. The composition as claimed in claim 1, wherein said essential oils
include patchouli oil, peppermint oil, and citronellol in a combined
amount ranging from about 5% to about 10% by weight of the
composition.
7. The composition as claimed in claim 1, wherein said composition is
essentially free of artificial preservatives and synthetic pesticides.
8. The composition as claimed in claim 1, wherein said composition is
formulated into a tablet, block, or slurry for use in pest control in
stored grains.
9. A pest repellent article for stored grains, said article comprising a
natural wooden block impregnated with the composition as claimed
in claim 1.
10. The pest repellent article as claimed in claim 9, wherein said block is
impregnated with the composition in an amount of about 1 ml per
cm² of block surface area for effective pest control.
11. The pest repellent block as claimed in claim 9, wherein the block is
made from 5-7 veneer plywood, allowing effective absorption and
gradual release of the composition over time.
12. The pest repellent block as claimed in claim 9, wherein said block
provides effective pest repellency for a duration of up to about 90
days under controlled conditions of storage.
13. The pest repellent composition as claimed in claim 1, wherein said
formulation demonstrates residue-free and biodegradable
properties, making it eco-friendly and safe for long-term use in
stored grains.

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