Formulation and evaluation of topical essential oil lotion as repellent against Aedes aegypti
Issued Date
2026-01-01
Resource Type
eISSN
2667114X
Scopus ID
2-s2.0-105029727762
Journal Title
Current Research in Parasitology and Vector Borne Diseases
Volume
9
Rights Holder(s)
SCOPUS
Bibliographic Citation
Current Research in Parasitology and Vector Borne Diseases Vol.9 (2026)
Suggested Citation
Sutthanont N., Sukphopetch P., Rungruang R., Leanpolchareanchai J., Srisawat R. Formulation and evaluation of topical essential oil lotion as repellent against Aedes aegypti. Current Research in Parasitology and Vector Borne Diseases Vol.9 (2026). doi:10.1016/j.crpvbd.2026.100354 Retrieved from: https://repository.li.mahidol.ac.th/handle/123456789/115128
Title
Formulation and evaluation of topical essential oil lotion as repellent against Aedes aegypti
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Corresponding Author(s)
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Abstract
Mosquito-borne diseases, particularly dengue transmitted by Aedes aegypti, remain a major public health challenge, underscoring the urgent need for safe and effective plant-based repellents. We developed and evaluated a new lotion containing 15% w/w of a blend of citronella, patchouli, and sage essential oils, focusing on both skin safety and repellent efficacy. Skin compatibility was confirmed in 16 volunteers via patch testing at 30 min, 48 h, and 96 h post-application, with no irritation or allergic reactions observed. Repellent activity was assessed using the WHO-recommended Arm-in-Cage (AIC) method. The lotion achieved a mean complete protection time (CPT) of 103.13 ± 5.46 min and maintained > 90% protection over 3 h, with repellency rates of 100.0%, 99.41%, 94.19%, and 91.01% at 0, 1, 2, and 3 h, respectively. Across all volunteers, the mean repellency was 96.17 ± 0.81%, while biting rates remained below 14% at 3 h. These findings indicate that the essential-oil blend provides safe, sustained, and effective protection, supporting its potential as a natural alternative to synthetic repellents for personal protection against Ae. aegypti.