ORE-katol: Organum Vulgare as a Mosquito Repellant

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

Mosquito borne diseases are major human and animal health problem in all tropical and subtropical countries. The diseases transmitted include malaria, filariasis, yellow fever and dengue. There has been exploration of various methods over the centuries to combat threats from mosquito borne diseases. Considerable research efforts have proven that essential oil compounds and extracts with their derivative are an effective and alternative means of controlling nuisance mosquitoes and their property of rapid degradation in the environment has favored for its increased specificity. Studies reflect that insect repellants play an important role in preventing the mosquito vector, deterring an insect from flying to, landing on or biting human and animal skin. Generally, the widely used compounds as insect repellants are synthetic chemical repellants but they bear the disadvantage of being unsafe for humans, especially children and domestic animals because they may cause irritation, hot sensation, rashes or allergy.So the researchers thought about making an alternative mosquito repellent incense that can be effective as commercial product. It helps to minimize the different diseases caused by mosquitoes such as Dengue and Malaria.

METHODS

With the preparation of the following materials: dried oregano leaves, oregano leaf extract, charcoal, gum Arabic powder and hot water. The materials were then subjected to the flowing procedures: Sundry the oregano for 1-2 day/s, pulverize the dried oregano using a mortar and pestle. and then mix 20 grams of gum Arabic, 2 tsp. of crushed charcoal, and 6 tsp. of crushed dried oregano, then add the oregano extract and add hot water to make paste like consistency and then mix thoroughly in a bowl. Mold the mixed ingredients in a stick to form its shape.

RESULTS

We tested the product’s effectiveness in different areas; kitchen area and under the dishwashing area. We observed that the aroma (smoke) spread in different direction in each area where they were placed the incense. The number of mosquito that died is noted as presented in our table of observation. To analyze the data, Likert Scale and Percentage Scale were used with its corresponding range.

DISCUSSIONS

It was found that there is no significant difference in using the oregano leaves as mosquito repellant as compared to the commercial brand. Thus, oregano can be an alternative source for repelling mosquitoes.