Development of an Agar-based Gel Formulation

with Pineapple Weed Extracts for the Effective

RHIENALD HAJJIJ A.BANTUGAN

A Research Paper

Presented to
The Faculty of the Senior High School Department
Iligan City East National High School
National Highway, Sta. Filomena
9200 Iligan City, Lanao Del Norte, Philippines

JUNE 2023

ROSEMARIE S. MACARANDAN, PhD

JUMARI S. SAPIO, SST-I

Ticks are a significant problem in agriculture, as they are known vectors of

several diseases that affect both livestock and humans. They are responsible for

transmitting a variety of diseases such as Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted

fever, and tick-borne encephalitis, among others. These diseases can cause symptoms

ranging from fever, fatigue, and headaches to more severe complications such as

neurological damage, paralysis, and death. In addition to their direct effects on health,

tick infestations can also lead to significant economic losses. Ticks can cause reduced

productivity in livestock by causing anemia, reducing weight gain, and milk

production. The cumulative (milk loss, treatment cost and leather loss) loss due to tick

infestation was calculated as 46199.31 million INR (USD595.07 million) while due to

TBDs 14877.15 million INR (USD191.15 million) = 61076.46 million INR

(USD787.63 million). The data provided by Singh et al., “Economic Impact of

Predominant Ticks and Tick-Borne Diseases on Indian Dairy Production Systems.” as

base line information for the policy maker to develop strategies at government level so

that the significantly high cumulative loss of 787.63 million USD due to ticks and tick

borne diseases (TTBDs) can be minimized.

The problem of tick infestation is a significant concern not only in the

Philippines but other places in the world, affecting both animal and human health and

leading to economic losses for farmers. To address this issue, a new study proposes

the use of AGPIMA, a locally produced substance that utilizes Makabuhay (Tinospora

crispa) and agar-based gel to effectively and safely control tick populations. The

introduction of AGPIMA offers a novel approach to tick control, providing a safe and

accessible solution for farmers and consumers alike.

Ticks pose a major challenge in agriculture, leading to adverse effects on both

humans and animals' well-being. Rajput, Zahid Iqbal, Songhua Hu, Wan Chen,

Abdullah G. Arijo, and Chenwen Xiao. “Importance of Ticks and Their

Chemical and Immunological Control in Livestock.” Journal of Zhejiang

University-Science B 7, no. 11 (November 1, 2006): 912–21. To minimize this

problem that has been affecting the quality of life for humans and animals, this study

aims to address this problem by introducing a novel tick control approach that utilizes

two locally available substances, Makabuhay (Tinospora crispa) and Agar, along with

Pineapple Weed extracts as a tick lure. Implementing and utilizing other existing

studies such as;

Remolin, Joshua Andrei A. “The Effectiveness of a Makabuhay (Tinospora

Cordifolia) with Madre de Cacao (Gliricidia Sepium) Body Wash Against the

Mortality Rate of Brown Dog Ticks (Rhipicephalus Sanguineus),”. According to

the results, formulation C exhibited the highest average mortality rate of 73.33%,

outperforming all other formulations. Furthermore, the data suggests that an increase

in the quantity of madre de cacao extract directly correlates with a rise in the mortality

rate of brown dog ticks.

Additionally, “Importance of Ticks and Their Chemical and Immunological

Control in Livestock.” Journal of Zhejiang University-Science B 7, no. 11

(November 1, 2006): 912–21. Stated Wharton (1983) evaluated the drawbacks of

chemical acaricides and suggested that exploring alternative methods can help to
mitigate such issues. The use of host resistance was reviewed, and although it is an

appealing approach to tick control, there are uncertainties, particularly with the B.

microplus-Babesia relationship. Resistance is an acquired trait, and each animal

develops its own level of resistance in response to tick infestation, which can range

from high (as observed in most zebu cattle) to low (as observed in most European

cattle), with a wide range of resistance levels occurring in all cattle breeds.

And Also Adenubi, O.T., Folorunso Oludayo Fasina, Lyndy Joy McGaw,

Jacobus Nicolaas Eloff, and Vinny Naidoo. “Plant Extracts to Control Ticks of

Veterinary and Medical Importance: A Review.” South African Journal of

Botany 105 (July 1, 2016): 178–93. Stated that the efficacy of pyrethrum, a

compound derived from Chrysanthenum spp. and its derivatives, suggests that there is

a possibility of finding alternative solutions. Further exploration of the numerous

plants exhibiting potent activity could potentially lead to significant breakthroughs.

Lastly, Yoder, Jay A., Benjamin D. Stevens, and Kelly C. Crouch. “Squalene:

A Naturally Abundant Mammalian Skin Secretion and Long Distance Tick-

Attractant (Acari: Ixodidae): Table 1.” Journal of Medical Entomology 36, no. 4

(July 1, 1999): 526–29. Aimed to evaluate the efficacy of squalene, a naturally

occurring lipid found on mammalian skin and known to be an attractant to the lone

star tick, Amblyomma americanum (L.), as a tick attractant. The study compared

squalene to standard tick-attractants, including benzaldehyde, isobutyric acid, methyl

salicylate, nonanoic acid, and o-nitrophenol, which have been identified as active

ingredients of tick aggregation-attachment pheromones. The efficacy of these

attractants was assessed in both field and laboratory settings at varying distances.
Notably, squalene shares similar properties with pineapple weed, which is also known

to attract ticks. The findings of this study may provide important insights into the

development of effective tick control methods, especially those utilizing natural

attractants, such as squalene and pineapple weed.

Scientific background

The proposed tick control solution, AGPIMA, utilizes two main components,

namely Makabuhay (Tinospora crispa) and agar. Makabuhay is a plant known for its

acaricidal properties, specifically its ability to cause paralysis and death in ticks. To

enhance the efficacy of this natural substance, it is enclosed in an agar-based gel,

which helps to effectively deliver the active ingredient to the ticks. Additionally,

pineapple weed extracts are included as a tick attractant, making the killing of ticks

safer and more efficient. This combination of natural ingredients and locally produced

agar makes AGPIMA a safe and accessible tick control option for farmers and

consumers in the Philippines. By building on existing scientific knowledge and

utilizing locally available resources, AGPIMA has the potential to significantly reduce

the negative impact of ticks on both human and animal health, contributing to a

healthier and more sustainable future.

Theoretical framework

The concept of minimizing and eradicating ticks has been around for a long

time and according to Tiffin, Hannah S., Edwin G. Rajotte, Joyce M. Sakamoto, and
Erika T. Machtinger. “Tick Control in a Connected World: Challenges, Solutions, and

Public Policy from a United States Border Perspective.” Tropical Medicine and

Infectious Disease 7, no. 11 (November 20, 2022): 388. They stated that “Ticks, in

particular, can cause significant animal welfare concerns and economic losses in dairy

and cattle operations, with the southern cattle fever tick (Rhipicephalus microplus)

widely considered to be the most significant economic burden to livestock operations

globally”

From the figure above, the aim of this study is to find the effectiveness and

the mortality rate of Tick (Rhipicephalus sanguineus) using our newly study AGPIMA

by utilizing two main components: Makabuhay (Tinospora crispa) and Agar-based

causing paralysis and death to ticks. To enhance the efficacy of Makabuhay, Agar-

based Gel is used to enclose Makabuhay inside for more effective and efficient results.

Furthermore, Pineapple Weed extracts are utilized to attract ticks for safer and more

efficient killing of ticks.

Significance of the Study

The research study on the development of a safe and effective tick control

approach using locally available resources and existing scientific knowledge is of

significant importance to the national science and technological priorities of the

Philippines. The country's economy relies heavily on the livestock industry, and the

negative effects of tick infestations on animal health and productivity pose a major

threat to the industry's sustainability and profitability. Therefore, the development of a

locally produced substance that is both safe and easily accessible to farmers and

consumers can have a substantial impact on the industry's success, contributing to the

country's economic growth and food security. Additionally, this study highlights the

significance of utilizing indigenous resources and knowledge to promote innovation

and address local challenges, leading to advancements in science and technology

within the country.

Brown dog Ticks (Rhipicephalus Sanguineus) are a major problem in

countries where livestock production is significant, including the Philippines. They

cause blood loss, anemia, skin irritation, and decreased productivity. My research

study proposes a solution called AGPIMA, which utilizes Makabuhay and Agar to kill
ticks effectively and safely. We will also use Pineapple Weed extracts to attract ticks.

By building on existing research and utilizing locally available resources, this tick

control approach has the potential to significantly reduce the negative impact of ticks

on both animal and human health, contributing to a healthier and more sustainable

future for all in the Philippines.

Sustainable Development Goals

● Good health and well-being

Ticks are a significant threat to human and animal health, as they can transmit various

diseases such as Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and tick-borne

encephalitis. Developing a natural tick killer that is safe and effective can help reduce

the incidence of these diseases and promote good health and well-being.

● Responsible consumption and production

The use of natural products such as pineapple weed extract and makabuhay as a tick

killer promotes responsible consumption and production. It reduces the reliance on

synthetic pesticides that can harm the environment and human health. Additionally,

the agar-based gel formulation can be produced using sustainable practices and eco-

friendly materials, further promoting responsible consumption and production.

● Life on land

Ticks are a significant threat to biodiversity, as they can transmit diseases to wildlife

and domestic animals. Developing a natural tick killer can help protect biodiversity by

reducing the incidence of tick-borne diseases. Additionally, the use of natural products

such as pineapple weed extract and makabuhay promotes sustainable agriculture

practices that protect soil health and biodiversity.

Developing a natural tick killer requires collaboration between various stakeholders

such as researchers, farmers, and policymakers. Partnerships between these

stakeholders can promote the development and implementation of sustainable tick

control strategies that are effective and safe for humans and the environment.

Target beneficiaries

The potential beneficiaries of the Agpima tick killer gel formulation with pineapple

weed extract and Makabuhay could include pet owners, livestock farmers, and people

living in areas with high tick infestations.

● Pet owners could benefit from the Agpima tick killer gel formulation as

ticks can pose a significant risk to the health of their pets. Tick infestations can

lead to anemia, tick-borne diseases such as Lyme disease, and even death in

severe cases. The gel formulation could be applied topically to the skin of pets,

providing a natural and safe tick-killing solution.

● Livestock farmers could also benefit from the Agpima tick killer gel

formulation. Ticks can cause significant economic losses due to reduced

weight gain, reduced milk production, and transmission of tick-borne diseases.

The gel formulation could be applied to

● People can benefit from AGPIMA, as it provides a safe and effective tick

control approach that can be easily produced and used by farmers and

consumers in the Philippines. By utilizing locally available resources and

building on existing scientific knowledge, AGPIMA can significantly reduce

a healthier and more sustainable future for all

Statement of the Problem

The control of cattle ticks (Rhipicephalus sanguineus) is a major concern in the

livestock industry due to the significant economic losses it causes for farmers. Ticks

can cause illness and even death in cattle, affecting up to 80% of the global cattle

population. Additionally, ticks reduce the productivity of cattle, decreasing milk

production and transmitting several diseases to animals. Furthermore, tick infestations

cause stress in cattle, which can weaken their immune system and further compromise

their health.

To address this issue, a study was conducted to determine the effectiveness of

Tinospora crispa in reducing tick populations in cattle. The aim of the study was to

evaluate the potential of Tinospora crispa as a natural alternative to chemical

treatments for tick control in cattle. The findings of this study could have significant

implications for the livestock industry, as it may provide a sustainable and cost-

effective solution to tick infestations that avoids the use of harmful chemicals.

The overall objective of this study is to determine the effectiveness of the

AGPIMA in reducing the Ticks (Rhipicephalus Sanguineus) and to assess the

mortality rate of the (Rhipicephalus Sanguineus) using the AGPIMA if it increases or

decreases the tick.

What is the effectiveness of the AGPIMA in reducing the Ticks (Rhipicephalus

Sanguineus)?

What is the mortality rate of Ticks (Rhipicephalus Sanguineus) of using AGPIMA?

Null hypothesis

H0: There is no mortality rate of Ticks (Rhipicephalus Sanguineus) while using

AGPIMA.

Alternative hypothesis

HA or H1: There is more than 1% mortality rate of Ticks (Rhipicephalus Sanguineus)

while using AGPIMA.

The study "Development of an agar-based gel formulation with pineapple weed

extracts for the effective utilization of makabuhay (Tinospora crispa) as a natural tick

killer: Agpima tick killer" aims to develop a natural and safe tick killer using an agar-

based gel formulation with pineapple weed extracts. The study will focus on the efficacy

and safety of the developed formulation on ticks and animals.

The target population of the study will be Ticks (Rhipicephalus Sanguineus). The

study duration will be for a period of 1 month, which will cover the development of

AGPIMA using experimentation, trials, and laboratory testing.

Factors and variables that will not be included in the study are as follows:

1. The study will not investigate the potential toxicity of the developed formulation on

humans as it is intended for use on animals only.

2. The study will not explore the effects of the developed formulation on other types of

parasites aside from ticks.

3. The study will not investigate the economic viability or marketability of the developed

formulation.

4. The study will not include the cultivation of makabuhay , agar or pineapple weed

extracts, as these will be sourced from external suppliers.

1. Agar-based gel formulation - a semi-solid matrix made from agar, a gelatinous

substance derived from seaweed, used as a vehicle for the active ingredient in the

formulation

2. Pineapple weed extracts - extracts obtained from the leaves or flowers of the plant

Matricaria discoidea, also known as pineapple weed, which is believed to have

anti-tick properties

3. Makabuhay (Tinospora crispa) - a tropical climbing vine that is traditionally used

in Southeast Asia as a natural remedy for various ailments, including as an

insecticide

4. Tick killer - a substance or agent that can effectively kill ticks

5. Efficacy - the ability of the developed formulation to kill ticks effectively

6. Safety - the lack of harmful effects of the developed formulation on animals

7. Skin irritation test - a test performed on animals to determine the potential skin

irritation or sensitization of a substance or agent

8. Active ingredient - the substance in the formulation that is responsible for the

desired biological activity, in this case, the ability to kill ticks

9. Parasite - an organism that lives on or in another organism (the host) and benefits

at the host's expense

10. Livestock animals - animals that are raised for meat, milk, or other products and
are susceptible to tick infestation.
11. Effectiveness - refers to how well it can control and reduce the population of ticks
that infest livestock animals.
12. Mortality rate - to the percentage of ticks that die after being exposed to the
treatment.
Reference List

● Rajput, Zahid Iqbal, Songhua Hu, Wan Chen, Abdullah G. Arijo, and

Chenwen Xiao. “Importance of Ticks and Their Chemical and Immunological

Control in Livestock.” Journal of Zhejiang University-Science B 7, no. 11

(November 1, 2006): 912–21. https://doi.org/10.1631/jzus.2006.b0912.

● Remolin, Joshua Andrei A. “The Effectiveness of a Makabuhay (Tinospora

Cordifolia) with Madre de Cacao (Gliricidia Sepium) Body Wash Against the

Mortality Rate of Brown Dog Ticks (Rhipicephalus Sanguineus),”

https://ojs.aaresearchindex.com/index.php/AAJMRA/article/view/4409.

● Additionally, “Importance of Ticks and Their Chemical and Immunological

Control in Livestock.” Journal of Zhejiang University-Science B 7, no. 11

(November 1, 2006): 912–21. https://doi.org/10.1631/jzus.2006.b0912.

● Adenubi, O.T., Folorunso Oludayo Fasina, Lyndy Joy McGaw, Jacobus

Nicolaas Eloff, and Vinny Naidoo. “Plant Extracts to Control Ticks of

Veterinary and Medical Importance: A Review.” South African Journal of

Botany 105 (July 1, 2016): 178–93. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sajb.2016.03.010.

● Lastly, Yoder, Jay A., Benjamin D. Stevens, and Kelly C. Crouch. “Squalene:

A Naturally Abundant Mammalian Skin Secretion and Long Distance Tick-

Attractant (Acari: Ixodidae): Table 1.” Journal of Medical Entomology 36, no.

4 (July 1, 1999): 526–29. https://doi.org/10.1093/jmedent/36.4.526

● Tiffin, Hannah S., Edwin G. Rajotte, Joyce M. Sakamoto, and Erika T.

Machtinger. “Tick Control in a Connected World: Challenges, Solutions, and

Public Policy from a United States Border Perspective.” Tropical Medicine

and Infectious Disease 7, no. 11 (November 20, 2022): 388.

https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed7110388.