Aromatic ketones having an extended fluoro-alkyl or fluoro-alkoxy moiety are disclosed. In particular aspects, the compounds comprise substituted 9-acridone, 9-xanthone, 4(1H)-quinolone, 4(1H) pyridone, 1,4-naphthoquinone, 9,10-anthraquinone derivatives. These preparations possess potent pharmacological activity for inhibiting malaria and mosquito-borne (Plasmodium) diseases. The haloalkyl/alkoxy aromatic compounds possess significant pharmacological activity, with IC50 values in the nanomolar and sub-nanomolar range, and reduced toxicity against host derived cells and tissues. Methods of using the fluoro-alkyl/alkoxy aromatic compounds in the treatment of malaria and other human and animal diseases are also disclosed. Agricultural uses of the fluoro-alkyl/alkoxy aromatic compounds, such as in control of fungal diseases and in the production of important commercial crops (apples, etc.), are also presented.