Study summary
Plant-based insect repellents: a review of their efficacy, development and testing
Maia MF, Moore SJ
- Study type
- Review
- Year
- 2011
- Published in
- Malaria Journal 10(Suppl 1):S11
- Evidence strength
- Well-supported evidence
How it was tested
Narrative review of laboratory and field evidence for plant-based repellents, including efficacy, development, and testing standards.
Summary
Review of the efficacy, safety, and formulation of plant-based repellents including citronella, lemongrass, geraniol, peppermint, cedar, thyme, and clove.
Key findings
Many essential oils repel mosquitoes for roughly 60-180 minutes but are highly volatile, giving short protection unless combined with fixatives (e.g., vanillin) or microencapsulation. Oil-only products are not recommended in disease-endemic areas and can cause skin irritation.
Limitations
Narrative review; few studies followed WHO testing guidelines; efficacy is highly formulation- and concentration-dependent.