Question
Why do we use neem and tulsi plant to keep mosquitoes away from our home?
Answer
Neem (Azadirachta indica) and tulsi (Ocimum tenuiflorum) are commonly used to repel mosquitoes due to their natural mosquito-repellent properties. These plants are eco-friendly alternatives to chemical repellents and are effective in reducing mosquito bites and the transmission of mosquito-borne diseases.
Neem as a Mosquito Repellent
Active Ingredients: Neem contains compounds like azadirachtin, nimbin, and salannin, which are effective against mosquitoes by acting as ovicides, larvicides, and pupicides, and by impairing the physiological pathways of mosquitoes [1] [2].
Forms and Applications: Neem can be used in various forms such as oil, smoke, and leaves. Neem oil is particularly effective and can be used directly or in formulations like creams and soaps [1] [3] [4]. Neem smoke has also been shown to be 100% effective in repelling mosquitoes [5].
Advantages: Neem-based products are environment-friendly and do not lead to resistance in mosquitoes, making them a sustainable option for mosquito control [1] [2].
Tulsi as a Mosquito Repellent
Repellent Properties: Tulsi leaves are used for their mosquito-repellent properties, often in combination with other natural ingredients like neem and lemongrass [6] [7].
Applications: Tulsi can be used in various forms, such as in incense sticks or as part of herbal mixtures, to repel mosquitoes effectively [6] [7].
Combined Use and Effectiveness
Eco-Friendly Solutions: Both neem and tulsi are used in eco-friendly mosquito repellent textiles and products, which are effective in reducing mosquito bites and ensuring safety from diseases like malaria and dengue fever [8] [9].
Practical Applications: These plants are incorporated into various products like dhoop sticks, soaps, and textiles, providing a natural and sustainable approach to mosquito control [8] [9] [7].
Neem and tulsi are effective natural mosquito repellents due to their active compounds and eco-friendly nature. They offer a sustainable alternative to chemical repellents, reducing the risk of mosquito-borne diseases while being safe for the environment.
References
Sivakumar, G. Medicinal natural plants used as Mosquito repellent finish on apparels. . 2020; 1.
Chatterjee, S., Bag, S., Biswal, D., Paria, D., Bandyopadhyay, R., Sarkar, B., Mandal, A., & Dangar, T. Neem-based products as potential eco-friendly mosquito control agents over conventional eco-toxic chemical pesticides-A review.. Acta tropica. 2023 https://doi.org/10.1016/j.actatropica.2023.106858
Ntabakirabose, G., Mukanoheri, C., Vital, K., Uwera, M., Nsengumuremyi, C., & Nsengimana, V. Assessment of the Effect of Neem Plant Products on House Mosquito Repellency: A Case Study of Burera and Gicumbi Districts. American Journal of Entomology. 2024 https://doi.org/10.11648/j.aje.20240801.12
Aidoo, O., Kuntworbe, N., Owusu, F., & Kuevi, D. Chemical Composition and In Vitro Evaluation of the Mosquito (Anopheles) Repellent Property of Neem (Azadirachta indica) Seed Oil. Journal of Tropical Medicine. 2021; 2021. https://doi.org/10.1155/2021/5567063
Adjei, F., Amponsah, E., Ebo-Donkor, P., Smith, J., & Tulashie, S. Formulation of mosquito repellent soap using neem extract, and covers as a substitute source of alkalis. Case Studies in Chemical and Environmental Engineering. 2022 https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cscee.2021.100171
Jibrin, M., & Mohammed, A. Repellency Effect of Prepared Neem Tree Leaves Smoke against Mosquito. . 2020 https://doi.org/10.9734/ajriz/2020/v3i330090
Sukhu, C., Charles,, E., & Perreira, S. An Investigation of the Effectiveness of Three Cow-dung based Herbal Mosquito Repellents. Book of Abstracts: Student Research (URC22 Special Edition). 2022 https://doi.org/10.52377/odok6958
Sharma, K. Assessment of efficiency of mosquito repellents using different natural plant extracts. International Journal of Mosquito Research. 2021; 8.
Mia, R., Sajib, M., Banna, B., Chaki, R., Alam, S., Rasel, A., & Islam, T. Mosquito repellent finishes on textile fabrics (woven & knit) by using different medicinal natural plants. Journal of Textile Engineering & Fashion Technology. 2020 https://doi.org/10.15406/JTEFT.2020.06.00246
