Research Paper

Efficacy of Tabasco Pepper (Capsicum frutescens) Extract as an Alternative Insecticide for

Orange Spotted Cockroach (Blaptica dubia)

Theme: Biological Science

Savannah Ericka C. Saraspi

Ma.Jessica C. Orbon

Kyle Marcaux B. Nacario

Researchers

MAE B. RACELIS

Adult Sponsor

ZEFERINO ARROYO HIGH SCHOOL

San Agustin, Iriga City

NOVEMBER 2022-MAY 2023

i.
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Title Page i.

Table of Contents ii.-iv.

Abstract v.

A. RESEARCH PLAN

I. Question or Problem Being Addressed 1-2

II. Objectives, Hypothesis, Expected Outcome 3
III. Methodology 4
Research Design and Treatment 4-5
Gathering of Materials 5
Collection and Maintenance of Cockroaches 6
Collection of Tabasco Pepper 6
Extraction of Tabasco Pepper 6
Application of Concentration 6
Disposal of Biological Wastes 7
Data Gathering and Summarizing of Results 7-8
Risk and Safety 8
IV. References 9
List of Figures
Figure 1 Number of Cockroaches Killed 4

Figure 2 The Methodology 5

ii.
 Abstract
One of the biggest issues we face in the Philippines are cockroaches. They have a
reservoir of bacteria that causes diseases and they also carry viruses. According to studies, some
plants contain active components and act as repellant for insect pests. The Tabasco pepper
(Capsicum frutescens) is one of the plants that has been proven effective on killing Orange
Spotted cockroaches (Blaptica dubia). This study aimed to determine and evaluate the efficacy
of the Tabasco pepper extracts on Orange Spotted cockroaches. 500 ml of water, 30 pieces
tabasco pepper, knife, non-reactive metal pot, measuring cup, weighing scale, graduated cylinder,
empty spray bottle, transparent containers, test tubes, test tube rack, strainer, and cotton are
needed for the experimentation of this study. Decoction method was used to get the extracts of
the Tabaco pepper. The extracts were tested on the cockroaches.
Results showed that the Tabasco pepper (Capsicum frutescens) extract is effective on killing the
cockroaches in 15 mL with 5.30 % concentration. Based from the results of the study, it is
concluded that there is a significant difference between the Tabasco Pepper (Capsicum
frutescens) extract and commercial insecticide in terms of percentage of cockroaches killed.
Because it won't destroy or harm the environment, it is beneficial and safe to use. Further studies
is recommended to verify the results of the present work.

v.
Research Plan
 I.
QUESTION OR PROBLEM BEING ADDRESSED
Background and Rationale
In the past years until now, people struggle to buy expensive insecticide to get rid off
cockroaches inside their household. Insecticides are usually made from nicotine, pyrethrum, and
rotenone and always been so expensive. The researchers will use Tabasco Pepper as an
ingredient to produce a safe to use, affordable, and environmentally friendly insecticide.
Capsaicin is an active component of chili peppers. Chili peppers belong to Solanaceae
family. Studies shows that Solanaceae have traditionally been used as insecticidal, anti-
infectious, and antimicrobial agents.
If proven effective, Tabasco pepper can be an alternative insecticide to kill cockroaches
due to the presence of its active components, including capsaicin.
Cockroaches are one of the main problems here in the Philippines. They are one of the
dirtiest insects. They have a reservoir of bacteria that causes diseases like salmonella,
staphylococcus, and streptococcus. Cockroaches also have viruses such as polio virus.
The researchers did a lot of readings that has something to do with plants consisting of
insecticidal components and therefore found out, that tabasco pepper has some of it. Reason why
the researchers will do this study.

1
 This study will aim to evaluate the efficacy of the tabasco pepper (Capsicum frutescens)
extract on Orange Spotted cockroach (Blaptica dubia), specifically this study will answer the
following questions:
Main Problem:
Is the extract of Tabasco pepper (Capsicum frutescens) effective in killing Blaptica dubia
cockroach?
Specific Problems:
1. What are the characteristics of the Tabasco pepper extract in terms of:
a. Color
b. pH
c. Consistency
2. What is the percentage mortality of cockroaches treated with tabasco pepper extract?
3. Is there significant difference between the tabasco pepper (Capsicum frutescens) extract
and commercial insecticide in terms of the percentage of cockroaches killed?

2
 II.
OBJECTIVES, HYPOTHESIS, AND EXPECTED OUTCOMES
The extracts of Tabasco pepper (Capsicum frutescens) has repellent properties which can
be alternative insecticide for killing Blaptica dubia cockroaches if proven after the experiment.
The purpose of this study is to determine whether Tabasco pepper (Capsicum frutescens)
extracts are effective in killing cockroaches. The following objectives will be accomplished in
detail:
1. Determine the characteristics of the tabasco pepper extract in terms of color, pH and
consistency.
2. Determine the percentage mortality caused by the Tabasco Pepper extract tested on
Orange Spotted Cockroach.
3. Test the significant difference between the tabasco pepper extract and commercial
insecticide in terms of the percentage of cockroach killed.
The following hypothesis will be tested:
H0. There is no significant difference between the efficacy of using Capsicum frutescens
extract as an alternative insecticide and commercial insecticide to kill Orange Spotted
Cockroach (Blaptica dubia).
H1. There is a significant difference between the efficacy of using Capsicum frutescens
extract as an alternative insecticide and commercial insecticide to kill Orange Spotted
Cockroach (Blaptica dubia).

3
 III.
METHODOLOGY
Research Design and Treatment
The Static Group Design is applicable to the study. The researchers will conduct a
treatment group and a control group, treatment group will have a tabasco pepper extract solution
while the control group will have the commercial insecticide. For each group there will be three
(3) trials. The amount of cockroaches killed will be recorded in every ten (10) minutes.
Figure 1

COCKROACHES

TRIAL 1 TRIAL 2 TRIAL 3

TREATMENT GROUP

CONTROL GROUP

Four (4) cockroach samples from each of the setup containers will be evaluated on one
concentration made from tabasco pepper leaf extracts. To guarantee the consistency of the
experiment, three (3) experiments will be performed.

The laboratory procedures will be performed with the supervision of the adult sponsor.

4
Procedures

The following are the specific details of the procedures to be carried out in the
experiment.

Figure 2

Planning the Collection and

Preparation of
Research Desings Maintenance of
Materials
and Treatment Cockroaches

Preparation and
Application of
Extractions of Data Analysis
Concentration
Tabasco

Disposal of
Biological Wastes
and Other Devices

Preparation of Materials

Prepare all the materials needed such as 500 ml of water, 30 pieces tabasco pepper, knife,
non-reactive metal pot, measuring cup, weighing scale, graduated cylinder, empty spray bottle,
transparent containers, test tubes, test tube rack, and strainer. For safety precautions, proper use
of hand gloves and face mask is a must. All laboratory equipment will be sterilized and cleaned
before and after the experiment.

5
Collection and Maintenance of Cockroaches

Purchase the cockroach samples from Lazada Online Shopping Market and isolate it in a
clean and transparent container. Cover the top with a net.

Collection of Tabasco pepper

Collect the ripe Tabasco pepper (Capsicum frutescens) from Calcedonia St., San Agustin,
Iriga City.

Preparation and Extraction of Tabasco pepper

23 grams of Tabasco pepper should be sun-dried for a week. Into a non-reactive metal
pot, add 500 ml of water. Cut the dried tabasco peppers with a knife, then put them into the
water. Set the heat to medium. Uncover the pot and simmer the mixture until the water has been
reduced by one-fourth. Allow the solution to cool for two minutes before straining the liquid with
a strainer. Place the container with the solution inside the refrigerator for 24 hours.

Application of Concentration

For safety precautions, proper use of hand gloves, and face mask is a must. Each group
should have three (3) trials. Measure 15 ml of the tabasco pepper extracts using the graduated
cylinder. Put it on separate test tubes and cover it with cotton. The extract will be placed into a
clean spray bottle from the test tubes. Label A1, Al2, and A3 for the extract of tabasco as
treatment group. Do the same on controlled group for the commercial insecticide labelled as B1,
B2, B3.

Prepare the samples and put four (4) cockroaches for each of the six (6) containers. Spray
the extract on to the cockroaches. Check the setups for every ten (10) minutes and observe.

6
Disposal of Biological Wastes and Other Devices

When disposing of biological waste and other devices, standard methods and procedures
are followed. Any object that has been contaminated by a biological agent, such as a clear
container, or that contains that agent. All the infectious and noninfectious biological waste
produced during laboratory research will be rendered inactive by soaking in 100% Clorox for 24
hours in a sealed container. The wastes will then be buried under the ground.

Data Gathering and Statistical Analysis

With the use of Static Group Design, the experiment will be repeated three times. Check
the 4 cockroaches if it is still alive by gently shaking the plastic container. Observe and note the
number of cockroaches every 10 minutes. Data obtained by Tabasco pepper extract and control
group will be recorded separately. Make a separate table in terms of recording the number of
cockroaches killed and the length of time the cockroaches killed. Statistical comparison will be
done between the date obtained.

7
 Number of cockroaches killed (minutes)

Table 1

Setups Trials 10 % 20 % 30 % Total %

mins mins mins
Treatment Trial 1
group Trial 2
Trial 3
Average
Trials 10 % 20 % 30 % Total %
mins mins mins
Controlled Trial 1
group Trial 2
Trial 3
Average

Risk and Safety

Certain procedures will be followed and observed, such as the appropriate use of barriers
and personal protection equipment. It is also necessary to store and handle hazardous and
combustible substances properly to prevent accidents.

The experiment will be carried out under the supervision and guidance of the adviser or
adult sponsor, specifically testing tabasco pepper extracts and the control group.

8
 IV.

REFERENCES

Lacar, J. (2019). Chili Peppers (Capsaicin) as an Alternative Pesticide. Ascendens Asia

Publishing Pte.Ltd.

https://ojs.aaresearchindex.com/index.php/AAJMRA/article/view/11946?
fbclid=IwAR3XAbOHbk8rHNP9dMz1VAexlEvVstUwujxiIzbL-OJ1tHpQ-
RLHXoLxCFA

Genovia, J.A., Gapo, C., Paye, M.D., Colon, N. (2016). Testing the Insecticidal Potential of Chili
Pepper (Capsicum frutescens) Fruit Extract against Termites (Coptotermes gestroi).
ResearchGate.net.
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/308063556_Testing_the_Insecticidal_Potential_
of_Chili_Pepper_Capsicum_frutescens_Fruit_Extract_against_Termites_Coptotermes_ge
stroi

Frothingham, S. (2020). Are Cockroaches Dangerous?. Healthline.com.

https://www.healthline.com/health/are-cockroaches-dangerous?
fbclid=IwAR0QtydEK17jXWNutU6jVu7CnDhqv8KRJU4QFz-Nnl3m-
WDiYost9ySHYZg

O’Malley, G., O’Malley R. (2022). Insecticide Poisoning. MSD MANUAL Consumer Version.
https://www.msdmanuals.com/home/injuries-and-poisoning/poisoning/insecticide-
poisoning?fbclid=IwAR3XAbOHbk8rHNP9dMz1VAexlEvVstUwujxiIzbL-OJ1tHpQ-
RLHXoLxCFA

Rey, M. (2023). Guanidine| Formula, Uses, & Facts. Britannica.com.

https://www.britannica.com/science/guanidine

Suna, S., Tamer, C. E., & Özcan-Sinir, G. (2019). Trends and Possibilities of the Usage of
Medicinal Herbal Extracts in Beverage Production. In Elsevier eBooks (pp. 361–398).
https://doi.org/10.1016/b978-0-12-816689-5.00013-4
 9

TABLE OF CONTENTS

A. RESEARCH PAPER

I. Introduction 1-2
II. Methodological Procedures 3
Research Design and Treatment 3
Gathering of Materials 4
Collection and Maintenance of Cockroaches 5
Collection of Tabasco Pepper 5
Extraction of Tabasco Pepper 5
Application of Concentration 5
Disposal of Biological Wastes 6
Data Gathering and Summarizing of Results 6
Risk and Safety 6
III. Results and Discussion 7
Results 7
Percentage Mortality of Orange Spotted Cockroaches 8
Caused by the Extracts of Tabasco Peppers and the Control
Significant Difference of Average in terms of Number of 9
Cockroaches killed
Comparison of the Average in terms of Number of 10
Cockroaches Killed
The Consistency and the Color of the Tabasco Pepper 11
Solution
The pH Level of the Tabasco Pepper Solution and 11-12
Commercial Insecticide
Discussion 13-14
IV. Conclusion 15
V. Recommendation 16
VI. Acknowledgement 17
 iii.

VII. Reference 18-19

Documentation 20-25
 iv.

I.

INTRODUCTION

In the past years until now, people struggle to buy expensive insecticide to get rid off
cockroaches inside their household. Insecticides are usually made from nicotine, pyrethrum, and
rotenone and always been so expensive. The researchers will use Tabasco Pepper as an
ingredient to produce a safe to use, affordable, and environmentally friendly insecticide.
Capsaicin is an active component of chili peppers. Chili peppers belong to Solanaceae
family. Studies shows that Solanaceae have traditionally been used as insecticidal, anti-
infectious, and antimicrobial agents.
If proven effective, Tabasco pepper can be an alternative insecticide to kill cockroaches
due to the presence of its active components, including capsaicin.
Cockroaches are one of the main problems here in the Philippines. They are one of the
dirtiest insects. They have a reservoir of bacteria that causes diseases like salmonella,
staphylococcus, and streptococcus. Cockroaches also have viruses such as polio virus.
The researchers did a lot of readings that has something to do with plants consisting of
insecticidal components and therefore found out, that tabasco pepper has some of it. Reason why
the researchers will do this study.
 1
This study utilizes to evaluate the efficacy of the tabasco pepper (Capsicum frutescens)
extract on Orange Spotted cockroach (Blaptica dubia), specifically this study will answer the
following questions:

Main Problem:
Is the extract of Tabasco pepper (Capsicum frutescens) effective in killing Blaptica dubia
cockroach?
Specific Problems:
1. What are the characteristics of the Tabasco pepper extract in terms of:
a. Color
b. pH
c. Consistency
2. What is the percentage mortality of cockroaches treated with tabasco pepper extract?
3. Is there significant difference between the tabasco pepper (Capsicum frutescens)
extract and commercial insecticide in terms of percentage of cockroaches.
 2
II.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Research Design and Treatment
The Static Group Design is applicable to the study. The researchers conducted a treatment
group and a control group, treatment group had a tabasco pepper extract solution while the
control group had the commercial insecticide. For each group there were three (3) trials. The
amount of cockroaches killed were recorded in every ten (10) minutes.
Figure 1

COCKROACHES

TRIAL 1 TRIAL 2 TRIAL 3

TREATMENT GROUP

CONTROL GROUP

Four (4) cockroaches samples from each of the setup containers were evaluated on one
concentration made from tabasco pepper leaf extracts. To guarantee the consistency of the
experiment, three (3) experiments were performed.

The laboratory procedures were performed with the supervision of the adult sponsor.
3
Procedures

The following were the specific details of the procedures that were carried out in the
experiment.

Figure 2

Planning the Collection and

Preparation of
Research Desings Maintenance of
Materials
and Treatment Cockroaches

Preparation and
Application of
Extractions of Data Analysis
Concentration
Tabasco

Disposal of
Biological Wastes
and Other Devices

Preparation of Materials

Prepare all the materials needed such as 500 ml of water, 30 pieces tabasco pepper, knife,
non-reactive metal pot, measuring cup, weighing scale, graduated cylinder, empty spray bottle,
transparent containers, test tubes, test tube rack, and strainer. For safety precautions, proper use
of hand gloves and face mask is a must. All laboratory equipment were sterilized and cleaned
before and after the experiment.

4
Collection and Maintenance of Cockroaches

The cockroach samples were purchased from Lazada Online Shopping Market and were isolated
in a clean and transparent container. It was covered on top with a net.

Collection of Tabasco pepper

The ripe Tabasco pepper (Capsicum frutescens) were collected from Calcedonia St., San
Agustin, Iriga City.

Preparation and Extraction of Tabasco pepper

23 grams of Tabasco pepper were sun-dried for a week. In a non-reactive metal pot, 500
ml of water were added. The dried tabasco peppers were cut with a knife, then put into the water.
The heat was set to medium. Uncover the pot and simmer the mixture until the water has been
reduced by one-fourth. Allow the solution to cool for two minutes before straining the liquid with
a strainer. The container with the solution was placed in the refrigerator for 24 hours.

Application of Concentration

For safety precautions, proper use of hand gloves and a face mask is a must. Each group
had three (3) trials. 15 ml with 5.30% concentration of the tabasco pepper extract were measured
using the graduated cylinder. It was put in a separate test tube and was covered with cotton. The
extract was placed into a clean spray bottle from the test tubes. Labeled it as A1, Al2, and A3 for
the extract of tabasco as the treatment group. Did the same on the controlled group for the
commercial insecticides labeled as B1, B2, and B3.

The samples were prepared, and four (4) cockroaches were put in each of the six (6)
containers. The extract was applied to the cockroaches. And the setups were checked and
observed every ten (10) minutes.

5
Disposal of Biological Wastes and Other Devices

Standard methods and procedures were followed in the disposal of biological waste and
other devices. Any object that has been contaminated by a biological agent, such as a clear
container, or that contains that agent All the infectious and noninfectious biological waste
produced during laboratory research was rendered inactive by soaking in 100% Clorox for 24
hours in a sealed container. The wastes were buried under the ground.

Data Gathering and Statistical Analysis

The experiment was repeated three times using the Static Group Design. The 4
cockroaches were checked to see if they were still alive by gently shaking the plastic container.
The number of cockroaches was observed and noted every 10 minutes. The data obtained by
Tabasco pepper extract and the control group were recorded separately. Make a separate table in
terms of recording the number of cockroaches killed and the length of time the cockroaches were
killed. Statistical comparison was between the dates obtained.

Risk and Safety

Certain procedures were followed and observed, such as the appropriate use of barriers
and personal protection equipment. It was necessary to store and handle hazardous and
combustible substances properly to prevent accidents.

The experiment was carried out under the supervision and guidance of the adviser or
adult sponsor, specifically testing tabasco pepper extracts and the controlled group.

6
 III.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

RESULTS

Tabasco pepper extract was utilized in the trials regarding its efficacy against Orange
Spotted Cockroaches. Cockroaches were exposed to the extracts for one day, every ten minutes,
to carry out the observation. The treatments showed insecticidal or repellency activity. Orange
Spotted Cockroaches can be killed using tabasco pepper extract in a 15 mL with 5.30%
concentration.

Percentage Mortality of Orange Spotted Cockroaches in the Treatment and Control

Groups

Based on observation, the tabasco pepper extracts are effective in killing the
cockroaches. Table 1 below shows the number of cockroaches killed for every 10 minutes in 15
mL concentration of the extracts of chili peppers and the control group which was the
commercial insecticide. In every trial, 4 cockroaches were used.

7
 Table 1

Percentage Mortality of Orange Spotted Cockroaches Caused by the Extracts of Tabasco

Peppers and the Control

Number of Cockroaches killed (minutes)

Setups Trials 10 % 20 % 30 % Total %

mins mins mins
Treatment Trial 1 1 25% 1 25% 2 50% 4 100%
group Trial 2 2 50% 2 50% 0 0% 4 100%
Trial 3 1 25% 1 25% 2 50% 4 100%
Average 4 100%
Trials 10 % 20 % 30 % Total %
mins mins mins
Controlled Trial 1 4 100% 0 0% 0 0% 4 100%
group Trial 2 4 100% 0 0% 0 0% 4 100%
Trial 3 4 100% 0 0% 0 0% 4 100%
Average 4 100%

Table 1 shows that the percentage mortality of tabasco pepper extract is the same every
10 minutes. However, the quantity of cockroaches that were killed differs. On the other hand,
cockroaches can all be killed in 10 minutes using a commercial insecticide. In the Alternative
Insecticide, it can be seen that in trials 1, 2, and 3, the mortality rate was 25%, 50%, and 25%
respectively. While, all the trials obtained in the controlled group were all 100%.

8
Significant Difference of Average in terms of Number of Cockroaches Killed

The T-test Analysis of Variances was used to analyze the data.

Table 2

Significant Difference of Trial 1 in terms of Number of Cockroaches Killed

t-Test: Two-Sample Assuming Equal Variances

  Tabasco Pepper Commercial

Extract insecticide

Mean 1.333333333 4

Variance 0.333333333 0

Observations 3 3

Pooled Variance 0.166666667

Hypothesized Mean 0
Difference

df 4

t Stat -8 computed value

P(T<=t) one-tail 0.000661948

t Critical one-tail 2.131846786

P(T<=t) two-tail 0.001323897

t Critical two-tail 2.776445105 tabular value

Since the t-computed value of 8 is greater than t-tabular value of 2.776 at .05 level of
significance with 4 degrees of freedom, the null hypothesis is rejected in favor of the research
hypothesis. This means that there is a significant difference between the efficacy of using
Capsicum frutescens extract as an alternative insecticide and commercial insecticide to kill
Orange Spotted Cockroach (Blaptica dubia). The Tabasco pepper extract has significantly
lower mortality rate.

Comparison of the Average in terms of Number of Cockroaches Killed

The different trials of each setups with 100% mL concentration were compared in the
number of cockroaches killed.

Figure 3

Number of Cockroached Killed in 15 mL concentration

4.5

3.5
Number of Cockroaches Killed

2.5

1.5

0.5

0
Tabasco Pepper Extract Commercial Insecticide

No. of Trials at tabasco pepper extract and commercial insecticide

Trial 1 Trial 2 Trial 3

 Figure 3 shows that the number of cockroaches killed by commercial insecticide in each
trial are the higher as to the amount killed by the Tabasco pepper extract.

10

The Consistency and the Color of the Tabasco Pepper Solution

The Tabasco Pepper extract's color and consistency are seen in the images above. It is
evident that it has a brown color and has a low viscosity.

The pH Level of the Tabasco Pepper Solution and Commercial Insecticide

 11

The picture above shows the pH level of the Tabasco pepper extract and the commercial
insecticide. The Tabasco pepper extract has a 7 pH level, while the commercial insecticide has a
5 pH level.
 12

Discussion

The following states the discussion of the findings.

In this research, we chose tabasco pepper extract as an alternative insecticide since it

contains properties and active components to kill pests faster which can prevent them to bring
bacteria and virus-causing diseases. Tabasco pepper can also be found and planted everywhere.

Cockroaches were selected for this study since these insects were known to carry viruses
and bacteria. The present study shows that 15 mL of Tabasco pepper extract has a significant
effect on the percentage mortality of Orange Spotted cockroaches (Blaptica dubia). In fact, it
closely resembles the commercial insecticide.

Blaptica dubia is a medium-sized cockroach species. Adult males have full wings that
cover their bodies, whereas females have only tiny wing stubs, their tegmina (forewings) being
about a fourth of their body length. Adults are dark brown to black with a slightly lighter orange
spot/stripe pattern that is sometimes only visible in bright light. Coloration varies slightly
depending on environment and diet from colony to colony. Blaptica dubia are ovoviviparous,
meaning they give birth to live young, and can produce 20-40 nymphs per month under ideal
conditions. (Hao, Arthur, & Ping, 2013)
 Many studies have been conducted in order to control and manipulate the mortality rate
of cockroaches. Insecticides were traditionally used to control cockroaches. Insecticides are
pesticides that are formulated to kill, harm, repel, or mitigate one or more species of insect. Some
insecticides disrupt the nervous system, while others damage their exoskeletons, repel, or control
them in some other way. (National Pesticide Information Center,2019)

In a related study, Shweta, Khalandar, Sharvani, Sravani, and Vitaliano (2018) examined
the insecticidal effect of azadirachta indica (neem) leaf extract on periplaneta americana
(American cockroach). They applied the insecticides, each at four concentrations, to seven

13

cockroaches per group. The Soxhlet apparatus and Rotary Evaporator were used for the
extraction of the neem extract.Neem leaf extract contains organic compounds that are toxic to the
subject, as demonstrated by the study, which found that neem extract at a concentration of 25%
caused 19.0% mortality and that neem extract at concentrations of 50%, 75%, and 100% caused
38.1%, 61.9%, and 81.0% mortality, respectively.

This research study seeks for substances from organic material that can be used as an
insecticide. The aim was to find organic materials with insecticide properties which are not
dangerous to the health of the people. It is achievable to develop an alternative insecticide using
Tabasco pepper extract as the active component. The alternative insecticide was effective in
getting rid of the cockroaches. Using the pH paper, we saw that our Tabasco pepper extract is in
neutral form. This insecticide is recommended to be used in any houses.
 14

IV.

CONCLUSION

Based from the results of the study, the following conclusion can be drawn:

1. The extract of Tabasco pepper (Capsicum frutescens) is effective in killing Orange

Spotted cockroaches (Blaptica dubia). However, the Tabasco pepper extract took longer
time to kill the cockroaches as compared to the commercial insecticide.
2. The following were the characteristics of Tabasco pepper extract in terms of:
a. The Tabasco pepper solution is brown in color.
b. The pH level of our experiment is neutral with a 7 pH level,.
c. The consistency of the solution has low viscosity since it can flow freely and easily.
3. The mortality rate of cockroaches treated with Tabasco pepper extract is 33.33% in 10
minutes of the application of the insecticide.
4. There is a significant difference between the Tabasco Pepper (Capsicum frutescens)
extract and commercial insecticide in terms of percentage of cockroaches killed. The
mortality rate of the cockroaches treated with pepper extract is significantly lower than
the commercial insecticide but after 30 minutes, 100% mortality rate was achieved.
15
 V.

RECOMMENDATION

1. Similar studies can be conducted using other variables such as other plants or trees as
alternative insecticide.
2. The experiment may be done on other insects like termites and mosquitoes.
3. Identify the other variable that affect the death of cockroaches.
4. The extract of Tabasco pepper used in this study can be tested to other pests to
explore more appropriate application as insecticides and to determine the
effectiveness with different subject.
5. Further studies should be conducted to verify the result of this study.

16
 VI.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

The completion of this research could not have been possible without the participation,
guidance, and assistance of some people. The contribution are highly appreciated and gratefully
acknowledge. They are as follows:

To our adult sponsor, Mrs. Mae B. Racelis for giving her time, effort, and untiring
support for helping and supervising in all our research activities from the beginning to the end of
the research;

To our parents and guardians, for the undying love and support, patience, and
consideration;

To Mrs. Hannah Cheryl S. Agato for guiding, supporting, and making herself available
when we needed her;

To Mrs. Rosalyn P. Miralpes for letting us borrow some equipment needed in our
experiment;

Zeferino Arroyo High School, for giving students a chance to experience lifetime worth
events that will surely make a difference to the future; and

Above all, the Almighty God, for giving us such talents that help us out everyday and for
the wisdoms and grace bestowed upon us.

We thank you so much.

-Researchers

17
 VII.

REFERENCES

Lacar, J. (2019). Chili Peppers (Capsaicin) as an Alternative Pesticide. Ascendens Asia

Publishing Pte.Ltd.

https://ojs.aaresearchindex.com/index.php/AAJMRA/article/view/11946?
fbclid=IwAR3XAbOHbk8rHNP9dMz1VAexlEvVstUwujxiIzbL-OJ1tHpQ-
RLHXoLxCFA

Genovia, J.A., Gapo, C., Paye, M.D., Colon, N. (2016). Testing the Insecticidal Potential of Chili
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 Photo Documentation

Preparation of Materials

500 ml of water, 30 pieces tabasco pepper, knife, non-reactive metal pot, measuring cup,
weighing scale, graduated cylinder, empty spray bottle, transparent containers, test tubes, test
tube rack, and strainer.

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Weighing of the Dried Tabasco Peppers

Slicing of the Dried Tabasco Peppers

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 Boiling of the
Dried Tabasco Pepper to get the extract

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Straining of the Tabasco Pepper Extract

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Trials 1, 2, and 3 of the Tabasco Pepper Extract

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Trials 1, 2, and 3 of the Commercial Insecticide

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