THE EFFICACY OF CHILI PEPPER(CAPSICUM) AND LEMONGRASS (CYMBOPOGON CITRATUS) AS A COMPONENT FOR HOMEMADE MOSQUITO COIL

Abstract

In the Philippines, mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue fever remain a major public health concern. To prevent mosquito bites, people commonly use repellents or incense, with mosquito coils being one of the most widely used options due to their affordability and accessibility. However, many commercially available mosquito coils contain chemical substances that may be harmful to human health. Recently, plant-based repellent products have gained popularity, as they are generally perceived as safer alternatives to synthetic repellents. In view of these concerns, this study aimed to explore chili pepper (Capsicum) and lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) as alternative plant-based components for homemade mosquito coils and to determine their efficacy as mosquito repellents. An experimental research method was employed in this study. The experimental approach involved manipulating specific variables to determine whether changes in one variable caused changes in another. This method relied on controlled conditions, random assignment, and variable manipulation to test the hypothesis regarding the effectiveness of chili pepper and lemongrass as mosquito-repellent components. The results indicated that among the three tested treatments—chili pepper, lemongrass, and a normal mosquito coil—the combination of a high concentration of lemongrass and a low concentration of chili pepper was the most effective in repelling mosquitoes. Statistical analysis showed a significant difference in repellency among the three concentrations tested. The findings demonstrate that chili pepper and lemongrass can serve as effective and safer alternatives to chemical-based mosquito repellents. The results further suggest that higher concentrations of lemongrass combined with lower concentrations of chili pepper increase mosquito repellency. The study recommends disseminating information on the use of chili pepper and lemongrass as components of homemade mosquito coils. Additionally, community-based training programs for mothers and homemakers on producing plant-based mosquito coils are encouraged.