EFFECTIVITY OF “KEMANGI GUNUNG” (Elsholtzia pubescens Benth) HYDROSOL SOLUTION ON THE MORTALITY AND MORPHOLOGICAL DAMAGE OF Aedes Aegypti LARVAE

Abstract

Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF) remains a major public health concern in Indonesia, with increasing cases in recent years. Using synthetic insecticides in DHF vector control has caused negative impacts, prompting the search for safer alternatives. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of “Kemangi  Gunung” leaves (Elsholtzia pubescens Benth) on mortality and morphological damage of Aedes aegypti larvae. The research employed a True Experimental Design with treatment groups exposed to “Kemangi  Gunung” hydrosol (concentrations of 3.125%, 6.25%, 12.5%, 25%, and 50%) and control groups. Results showed that dried mountain basil leaf hydrosol was effective at 25% concentration with a 48-hour exposure time, killing 50% of test larvae, while fresh leaf hydrosol was effective at 50% concentration with 51% larval mortality. One Way ANOVA statistical test showed significant differences between concentrations (p<0.05). Morphological observations revealed damage to the abdominal region of larvae exposed to hydrosol. This research demonstrates the potential of “Kemangi Gunung” leaves as a natural larvicide for DHF vector control.