Abstract

DEVELOPMENT AND ASSESSMENT OF AN HERBAL MOSQUITO REPELLENT CANDLE INCORPORATING ESSENTIAL OILS AND HERBAL EXTRACTS

Brintha N.*, Shirin Shahnas K. C., Shegha Koderi Valappil, Thoufeeque A., Mathesh S.

ABSTRACT

The growing concern over synthetic mosquito repellents due to their potential health and environmental hazards has shifted interest toward natural alternatives. This study presents the formulation and evaluation of an herbal mosquito repellent candle using neem oil, citronella oil, peppermint oil, coconut oil, beeswax, and ethanolic extract of Vitex negundo leaves. The candle was assessed for physical parameters such as burn time, fragrance, and texture, along with repellency efficacy using the room method against Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. The formulated candle exhibited a consistent burn time of 7 hours, a high fragrance acceptability (8.6 ± 0.55), and smooth texture. The repellency test demonstrated significant activity (77.6% ± 2.3%) comparable to a commercial repellent candle (81.2% ± 2.0%). The results indicate the potential of this herbal formulation as a safer and eco-friendly mosquito repellent alternative.

Keywords: Herbal candle, mosquito repellent, neem oil, citronella, Vitex negundo, essential oils, natural insecticide.