Roachaway: a natural cockroach repellent and insecticide from sekentut leaves (paederia foetida) extracts

American cockroaches (Periplanata americana) is a common pest in Malaysia and poses significant risks to humans through property damage and the transmission of the pathogenic organisms. The widespread use of synthetic repellent has contributed to chemical pollution and adverse health effects, prompting the search for safer, plant-based alternatives. In this study, extracts from Sekentut (Paederia foetida) leaves were evaluated for repellent and insecticidal effects against P. Americana. Dried leaves were soaked in ethanol, and the solvent was removed using a steam bath to obtain the extracts. The extracts were then diluted with distilled water to prepare concentrations of 10% (v/v), 25% (v/v), 50% (v/v), and 100% (v/v). Repellency was tested over a 30-minute exposure period, while lethal effects were assessed over 72 hours. Statistical analyses were conducted using one-way ANOVA and Probit analysis. The pure (100%) P. foetida extract demonstrated excellent repellency (100%) and strong insecticidal activity, with an LC99 value of 83%. These findings suggest that P. foetida leaf extract may serve as an effective natural repellent and insecticide against P. Americana, offering a potential eco-friendly alternative to synthetic chemical agents.