Sphaeranthus suaveolens is a weed from the family Asteraceae, it grows abundantly in wet areas and most common in rice fields. The extracts from plants closely related to S. suaveolens have been reported to have allelopathic, insecticidal, antifeedant, repellent, and other biological activities. Currently, the use of synthetic chemicals to control weeds and insect pests raise several concerns related to environment and human health. Extracts from plants with pesticidal properties can offer the best and an environmentally friendly alternative. Some of these extracts have been extensively tested to assess their applications as valuable natural resources in sustainable agriculture. This review article therefore explores the potential of S. suaveolens extracts in controlling insect pests and managing weeds by smallholder farmers.
