Study of the effect of secondary metabolites in the leaves of the Ziziphus spina- christi plant on the biological control of head lice

Abstract

Head lice are a global public health problem widely distributed in densely populated areas. Traditional insecticides are becoming less effective gradually as head lice develop resistance, and they cause side effects and health and environmental risks. Due to the presence of secondary metabolites such as beta-amyrin acetate, betulinic acid, lupeol, luteolin, and apigenin, in sidr leaves, these leaves have traditionally been used to eliminate head lice in the Middle East area. They have been useful as they are effective in controlling head lice through more than one mechanisms, secondary metabolites in sidr has been effective in inhibiting enzymes necessary for nervous system and nutrition for instance, kinases, dopamine receptors, and tyrosinase. They are also able to cause structural and cellular injuries to the lice, such as cytoplasmic shrinking and loss of nuclear organization. The current chemical treatments are not sufficient, and the eventual consequences will include lice resistance, aggravated allergies, toxicity, in addition to excessive economic and health costs. In addition, enjoying extracts of the sider plant may support as it will offer a safer, less lice resistance, and less side effects alternative, if possible.