Mosq-andle as an Alternative Mosquito Repellent Candle
I. Introduction
Most insects are known to be major pests attacking humans and domestic animals in
order to spread various diseases and some of these diseases may also lead to death.
Mosquitoes are typically the best known of the biting insects and potentially the most studied
of all arthropods of economic importance. In addition, mosquito-borne diseases such as
dengue, are spread by Anopheles species of flies belonging to the genera Culex and Aedes.
The mosquitoes inject their saliva into the bloodstream of the host, causing an immunological
response by attaching the antigens to the IgG and IgE antibodies. The responses causes pains,
redness, scratching, and frequently the development of lumps (Gupta, 2019). Biting
hematophagous female mosquitoes from the genera Aedes Meigen, Anopheles Meigen, and
Culex L. can spread severe human tropical diseases such filariasis, malaria, dengue, and
yellow fever. As well as Haemagogus L. (Culicidae in Diptera). For instance, around 3.3
billion individuals, or half of the global population, are susceptible to malaria. Malaria
claimed the lives of more than 1 million people in 2008, mostly African children. There were
over 247 million cases worldwide (pohlit et al, 2011).
Futhermore, numerous physiologically active substances found in herbal plants are
beneficial for enhancing one's quality of life and these are the primary sources of both
traditional and contemporary herbal medicine used for illness prevention. The characteristics
of many life forms that sustain voters of plants that scientists have researched for the use of
them (Tecoma, 2019). A chemical that is applied to skin, clothing, or other surfaces to deter
mosquitoes from landing there is known as a mosquito repellent. It is a synthetic material that
is designed to make the surface disagreeable and unappealing to mosquitoes in an effort to
decrease human-mosquito contact. Insects are repelled by mosquito repellents, not killed.
Hence, they are not technically both pesticides and insecticides. They aid in stopping and
managing the spread of illnesses carried by mosquitoes (S. Agrawal, et. Al 2018).
However, the widespread application of artificial pesticides during the previous five
decades has led to the emergence of environmental risks also in the development of
physiological resistance in major vector species. As a result, this has made the the requirement
for low-cost, biodegradable, and ecologically friendly research and development native
technique for vector control that requires little caution from both people and communities in
particular circumstances (Mittal, et al., 2003). In that case, preventing mosquito bites is among
the most effective ways to lessen illness. In daily life, a variety of synthetic insect repellents are
utilized; the use of repellants pose risks to the environment and human health. Numerous plants
have been used historically as fumigants, insecticidal agents, and repellents. Phytochemicals
found in the majority of plants are used as repellents in avoiding insect attacks of several kinds.
Herbal remedies, which have been shown to be effective against multiple kinds of illnesses and
conditions, are becoming more and more well-known globally. Nevertheless, mentioning that
plant remedies are safe, efficient, and free of negative consequences. Numerous shrubs and
plants have been found to have curative and therapeutic benefits in addition to mosquito repellant
and larvicidal properties. (MR Salunke, et. Al, 2022).
Statement of the Problem:
This study aims to help people inform that they can avoid having mosquito surge which can
cause dengue to people; by making their own mosquito repellents just by using herbs at their
homes instead of buying a commercial products.
This experiment especially seeks to look into the following:
1.What are the effects of this alternative repellent candle?
2.What is the difference between alternative and commercial mosquito repellent candle?
a. price
b.ingredients
c.production process
d.fragrance
3.Which kind of wax is more capable using in making this mosquito repellent candles?
Hypothesis:
By implementing this mosquito repellent candle, people can lessen the amount of mosquitoes
in their homes, and lower their chance of catching diseases carried by mosquito bites, such as
malaria, dengue, yellow fever, etc. and make it tougher for mosquitoes to land on human bodies
where they may eventually infect them due to the repellent's odor. Utilizing a mosquito repellent
candle with herbs can be an efficient way for people that can prevent mosquito-borne illnesses
by reducing the number of mosquitoes in their environment.
On the other hand, people still must be cautious when using herbs because it may also have
side effects depending on the aging substance to be used. The repellant they employ may have
unfavorable consequences as well, such as headaches, dizziness, and incompatibility with some
sections of our bodies, similar to asthma.
Scope of the Study:
Formulation Development: Examining the quantities of potent natural components (such
citronella, eucalyptus, and lemongrass) to optimize their repellent qualities while maintaining
safety. Efficacy testing involves carrying out investigations, including controlled settings and
outdoor trials, to determine how effectively various formulations repel mosquitoes in diverse
conditions.
Burning Characteristics:
Examining the candles' overall performance, aroma dispersal, and burn time to make sure they
offer sufficient protection.
Consumer Preferences:
Examining prospective market positioning, consumer preferences for smells and aesthetics, and
market demand.
Environmental Impact:
Assessing the production processes' sustainability as well as the ecological effects of the
ingredients used.
Mechanism of Action:
When the candle burns, the active ingredients are released into the atmosphere. These materials
are intended to mask human scents that mosquitoes find appealing, such as sweat or carbon
dioxide, so that it will be harder for them to locate and bite humans.
Limitations of the Study:
1.Restricted Range:
These candles only cover a restricted area with their repelling vapors, usually a few feet around
the candle. They are therefore less useful in wider outside areas.
2. Effectiveness:
Although these candles might lessen mosquito activity, it is not completely eradicated.
Citronella and other natural elements are not as efficient as stronger chemical repellents like
DEET or picaridin, according to studies.
3. Targeting Specific Kinds:
The active components in these candles have varying effects on different kinds of mosquitoes.
Certain animals might still bite even in the presence of a burning candle.
4. Restricted Indoor Use:
Although they can be used indoors, some people may find the smoke and fumes bothersome,
therefore enclosed areas may not be the best place for them.
5. Only a Temporary Fix:
Candles that repel mosquitoes only offer a temporary fix. Other management measures, such as
sprays, traps, or professional pest control, can be required for really bad mosquito infestations.
Importance of the Study:
Creating candles that repel mosquitoes has several advantages for both people and
communities. First of all, it provides a more natural and safer option to chemical repellents,
which may include hazardous materials. Essential oil like lavender, and herbs such as lemon
grass, oregano, garlic and lemon are used in these candles to provide a safe,effective repellent
and a less risky technique to keep mosquitoes away. Since mosquitoes multiply for a variety of
causes, including warm temperatures, high humidity, overgrown vegetation, and inadequate
drainage; Moreover, doing this experiment particularly during this humid time of year where
mosquito most appears, will surely help people on testing this product.
Furthermore, the production of this product benefits humans by lowering mosquito bite
rates, which in turn lowers the danger of diseases carried by these mosquitoes. This study will
also benefit especially the children who are more susceptible to the diseases they carry. By
employing natural components, these candles will help reduce chemical exposure for those kids
with sensitive skin and create a safer outdoor environment.
Another beneficiary is our farmers and gardeners. Aside from having mosquito that interferes
with their gardening chores, because mosquitoes often nests and lays eggs in plants. . With the
help of a strong repellent, gardeners may work without interruption since it forms a barrier that
keeps mosquitoes away, and also to keep plants in good condition and nutritious.
Definition of Terms:
1. Culex Mosquitos- Culex mosquitoes are a common type of mosquito, usually found in
both tropical and temperate regions.
2. Aedes Mosquitos- Aedes mosquitos can be found in temperate climates, tropical and
subtropical regions are home to the majority of them. Their legs and torso are striped in
black and white, making them easily identifiable.
3. Anopheles- Another genus of mosquitos, which is among the most deadly in terms of its
potential to affect world health due to its role in the transmission of malaria.
4. IgG and IgE Bodies-
IgG and IgE are two types of antibodies, also known as immunoglobulins, a generated by
the immune system in response to allergens or to protect against diseases. Each of them
plays a distinct part in the immunological response of the body.
IgG Bodies- IgG (Immunoglobulin G) It is the most commonly encountered type of
antibody in the bloodstream, and is essential for sustained defense against infections.
IgE Bodies- IgE (Immunoglubin E) It is a particular class of antibodies that are essential
to the immune response of the body, especially in cases of allergic reactions and parasitic
diseases.
5. Haemagogus- It is a genus of mosquitoes that are members of the Diptera order and
Culicidae family (true flies). The primary reason for the widespread recognition of these
mosquitoes is their function as carriers of specific viral infections, particularly across
Central and South America.
6. Repellent- It is a a material or tool intended to prevent insects and animals from
approaching or biting. Repellants are frequently employed in relation to mosquitoes and
other insects in order to shield humans from bites and lower the possibility of disease
transmission.
7. Malaria- It is a potentially fatal illness that is mostly prevalent in tropical and subtropical
areas and is caused by the Plasmodium parasite.
8. Filariasis- It is a parasitic illness brought on by infection with filariae, worms that
resemble threads and are spread to people by mosquito and other biting insect bites.
Tropical and subtropical areas—particularly those in portions of Africa, Asia, the Pacific
islands, and the Americas—are where the disease is most prevalent.
9. Dengue- It is an infection brought on by the dengue virus (DENV), which is spread to
people by the bites of Aedes mosquitoes carrying the virus, mostly Aedes aegypti and
Aedes albopictus. Around the world, dengue poses a serious threat to public health in
tropical and subtropical areas.
10. Yellow Fever- It is a viral ailment brought on by the yellow fever virus, which is spread
to people via Aedes or Haemagogus mosquito bites. It is mainly frequent in tropical and
subtropical parts of Africa and South America.