MOSQUITO REPELLANTPROPENSITY OF LEMONGRASS EMUGEL

Abstract

Background: The use of mosquito repellants seats amongst the strategies for malaria eradication program but the predominantly available ones are synthetic with some risk of toxicity or side effects. This investigation is aimed at deriving mosquito repellant fromless risky natural source; lemongrass. Methods: Lemon grass extract was obtained using n-hexane in soxhlet apparatus. The extract was formulated as lemongrass extractemugel (LGEM) 1 and 2 % w/w. Organoleptic properties, spreadability, pH, skin irritation test and the mosquito repellanteffects of the emugelwere evaluated. The percentage repellency (R) and complete protection time (CPT) were determined and compared with N,N-diethyl-meta-toluamide (DEET). Results: LGEEM 1& 2 % w/w exhibited good speadabilty, had pH in the range of 5.3 – 8, and was non-irritant to the skin. Mosquito repellency, R was concentration dependent, above 83 % in LGEEM 2%. The CPTwas 5h and 8h for LGEM and DEET respectively. Conclusion: LGEEMis potentialsubstitute to DEET for topical application as mosquito repellant. Improving gel stability might prolong CPT and repellant efficiency. Further study is under way and would constitute separate report.