Catnip lotion as effective as Deet at repelling mosquitoes, study finds
4 hours ago
- #malaria prevention
- #insect repellent
- #sustainable health
- A catnip-based lotion with 6% oil concentration was found equally effective as Deet in repelling mosquitoes in Ugandan trials.
- Catnip contains nepetalactone, which repels insects and is being explored as a low-cost, locally producible alternative to commercial repellents.
- The research highlights the need for affordable malaria prevention tools, as Deet is often unaffordable for rural Ugandan communities.
- Field tests showed that both 2% and 6% catnip lotions reduced mosquito landings, with the higher concentration matching Deet's efficacy.
- The project aims to create a sustainable local production model, providing income and increasing accessibility to mosquito repellents.
- Experts note that topical repellents require regular reapplication, which may limit compliance, and suggest further studies before scaling up.