Exploring the biocontrol potential of clitoria ternatea and abutilon indicum smoke water extracts against leaf curl virus in chilli plants

Abstract

Chilli (Capsicum annuum L.) is an economically important vegetable crop that suffers large yield losses due to a variety of biotic stresses including leaf curl virus. Various kind of pesticides and chemical methods are used to control the disease which are harmful to the environment. The excessive use of synthetic fungicides has led to toxicological and environmental concerns, prompting the exploration of plant-based alternatives for plant protection. This study investigated the phytochemical composition of Clitoria ternatea and Abutilon indicum smoke water extracts and evaluated their efficacy against leaf curl virus disease in chilli plants. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of alkaloids and carbohydrates in Abutilon indicum, while Clitoria ternatea smoke water extract tested positive for carbohydrates. Treatment of infected chilli plants with the smoke water extracts resulted in increased chlorophyll content, suggesting enhanced photosynthetic activity. Clitoria ternatea smoke water extract demonstrated a more pronounced effect on restoring chlorophyll content. The potential mechanisms underlying the antiviral activity of the extracts and the feasibility of using natural biocontrol agents for disease management in agriculture are discussed.