Female anopheles mosquito is solely responsible for transmitting plasmodium, a protozoon that causes malaria; a global illness that causes the death of both old and young. It is because of the existence of these ubiquitous insects, e.g. mosquitoes that insecticides with negative aftermath on man and the environment, are manufactured. Shockingly, we need not suffer from such hazards because there are varieties of medicinal leafy vegetables, fruit skins, barks, and roots of plants in our localities that are powerful natural insect repellents. These plants contain nutraceutical aromatic compounds such as limonene, citronella, cineole, and amide piperine that all insects dislike. Highlighted below are five local herbs/plant parts that ward off insects effectively.
1. West African Black Pepper (Uziza)
Uziza (Piper guineense) is a powerful herb used to prepare mouth-watering dishes and for medicinal purposes. Health guide reveals that uziza leaves have a distinct small because of the bio compound it possesses- amide piperine. Rural area residents in Africa cut uziza leaves into bits and place them beside their beds or rub their liquid extracts on their skin before going to bed because the musk smell repels mosquitoes and other nocturnal insects from a distance. I can assure you of a peaceful good night’s rest afterward.
2. Orange Peels
Orange peels are yet another healthy medium to drive away vectors and pests from your home. Studies show that citrus fruit peels, especially orange peels (Citrus sinensis) contain limonene-a colorless liquid hydrocarbon that destroys the waxy coating of any insect that comes in contact with it. Josh Tesolin, a renowned gardener of RusticWise, outlined saliently that we should scatter only orange peels without traces of the edible flesh around at strategic places.
3. Scent Leaf
It is also noteworthy that the distinct odor of scent leaf (Ocimum gratissimum) Is not only distinguishable by humans but also by insects. The bioactive chemical (methyl eugenol) used in manufacturing inorganic insecticides or used by local farmers to lure away fruit flies from their crops, is a vital constituent of scent leaf. For this reason, the Research Gate recommends squeezing the leaves and applying their extracts on your skin or placing the leaves at designated insect hideouts.
4. Lemon Grass
Lemon grass (Cymbopogon citratus) is a therapeutic weed popularly boiled into tea for multipurpose. Precisely speaking, scientists certify lemon grass as an alternative control for mosquitoes. One study has it that Cymbopogon citratus contains citronella oil which, when applied on the skin, makes it very difficult for mosquitoes and other blood-sucking insects to locate you. Also embedded in lemon grass are considerable amounts of geraniol and citronella that keep house flies away from your environs.
5. Lantana Camara
Last but not least is Lantana camara, another underestimated herb. According to Research Gate, the smoke emanating from burning the leaves of Lantana camara drives away mosquitoes. Aside from this, Lantana camara and its extracts are currently used to produce organic sprays, creams, and portable candle sticks or insect coils because its fragrance immensely irritates insects.
You can grind its leaves when outside and its citronella content will keep insects far away. You can also rub its essential oil on your body to get satisfactory effects.
By utilizing this botanical greenery, we can live in a safe environment, free from mosquitoes, and have a health status that proves malaria-negative. Stay healthy always.
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