The perception of Pelargonium citrosum (Lin) and Ocimum basilicum (Lin) as mosquito repellent plants

Abstract

Because of their repellent compounds, diverse plants have been recognized as an alternative for mosquito control. In 2017, three experimental groups were established with allocation per plant: 1) Pelargonium citrosum, 2) Ocimum basilicum, and 3) P. citrosum plus O. basilicum. The inhabitants´ perception of the plant´s repellent properties were evaluated twice. Three categories for plant repellent perception according to the number of mosquitos were established: 1) no change, 2) reduction and 3) increase. A median of six inhabitants per household was found with a median of two rooms per household. 84.6% of plants were placed in rooms and 19.6%. In front of the house. No significant difference was found between measures of perception; however, O. basilicum had the highest percentage of repellent perception compared to P. citrosum. O. Basilicum is an alternative mosquito repellent for household use.