Investigating the Efficiency and Effectiveness of Tea Tree Oil Scented  Can

ABSTRACT 

Diseases like dengue, malaria, yellow fever, and others transmitted by culicoides determine high rates of morbidity and mortality, especially in tropical countries. Having mosquitoes as the world’s deadliest animal, mosquito repellents came to existence with the purpose of fighting against the mosquitoes and the diseases it transmits. 

The most popular repellent is DEET (N, N-diethyl-3-m-toluamide), but there have been reports of toxicity with misuse or long-term use. Because of these drawbacks, many people prefer to use natural products for repellents. 

In the realm of aromatherapy, essential oils are used to improve your general well-being. As researchers, we decided to make use of the tea tree oil as an alternative mosquito repellent with its capable anti-mosquito traits incorporated into a candle. For the conduction of this research we intend to study and discover if a relation between the tea tree oil scented candles and the mosquitoes actually exists and were it to be effective as an alternative mosquito repellent. If proven to be one with efficiency, then we hope to come up with an organic mosquito repellent. 

You can make your own organic mosquito repellent with a glass jar, candle wicks, paraffin wax, and tea tree oil. The main ingredient in the repellent is the tea tree oil. Which is an essential oil derived from the leaves that is called the “melaleuca alternifolia.” It is known for its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antifungal properties. Tea tree oil is popular for making cleaning products and natural remedies, which are also healthy for us. It is used in many insect repellents due to its ability to repel mosquitoes. You can make your own candles and do experiments using different amounts of tea tree oil according to your preferences. 

Using the repellent is simple; ensure that your candle is placed on a flat and stable surface when lit. We recommend using a long lighter in order to avoid accidents or even burning your fingers. Allow the candle to burn, which can also repel mosquitoes. Do not leave the candle unattended while it is burning. Our group has tested the repellents using mosquitoes. Each candle contains varying amounts of tea tree oil. Together with the group, we will observe how the mosquitoes respond to the product. 

KEYWORDS: Culicoides - genus of biting midges in the family CeratopogonidaeAromatherapy - the use of essential oils and other aromatic compounds to improve physical and psychological well-being Morbidity - the rate of disease in a population Tea Tree Oil - essential oil derived from the leaves that is called the “melaleuca alternifolia.”