LANSIUM DOMESTICUM (LANZONES) PEEL AND CYMBOPOGON CITRATUS (LEMONGRASS) EXTRACT AS MOSQUITO COIL

Abstract

Mosquito-borne diseases, such as dengue, pose serious threats to global public health. Commercial mosquito coils are commonly used to repel mosquitoes; however, their chemical components may pose potential health risks. This study aimed to explore alternative mosquito coils made primarily from Lansium domesticum (lanzones) peel and Cymbopogon citratus (lemongrass) extract. The goal of the research was to reduce the harmful effects of commercial mosquito coils on human health and the environment while addressing mosquito-borne illnesses such as dengue. An experimental research design was employed in this study. Fifteen mosquitoes were placed in each of two prepared containers. The alternative mosquito coil was placed in the first container, while a commercial mosquito coil was used in the second container. After exposure to both coils, the mosquitoes were observed, and the time taken for mosquito mortality was recorded. The duration of coil burning and the scent of each coil were also monitored. The effectiveness of the alternative mosquito coil in eliminating mosquitoes was evaluated through multiple trials. The highest level of repellency for the alternative coil was observed in trial four, during which eight mosquitoes were killed within 15 minutes and 15 seconds. Similarly, the commercial mosquito coil showed its highest effectiveness in trial four, where nine mosquitoes were killed in the same duration. Despite the slight difference in effectiveness, both mosquito coils proved effective in eliminating mosquitoes. In terms of burning duration, the commercial coil burned for 8 hours, while the alternative coil burned for 6 hours and 30 minutes, resulting in a difference of 1 hour and 30 minutes. Overall, the mosquito coil made from Lansium domesticum (lanzones) peel and Cymbopogon citratus (lemongrass) extract demonstrated effectiveness comparable to that of commercial mosquito coils. This experimental study demonstrated that Lansium domesticum (lanzones) peel and Cymbopogon citratus (lemongrass) extract can be used as alternative materials for mosquito coils. The results showed that the alternative coil was effective in repelling mosquitoes at a level comparable to commercial mosquito coils. Moreover, the alternative coil provides a safer option that is free from synthetic chemicals and offers a more environmentally friendly solution for mosquito control.