Nature's Answer to Insect Repellent

By: Katie Schaefer, Cosmetics & Toiletries magazine

Posted: May 29, 2009, from the June 2009 issue of Cosmetics & Toiletries.

page 3 of 3

The researchers investigated other repellent functions for the compound as well, noting it effectively deterred stable flies and could therefore be formulated into products to protect horses. His team currently is collaborating with Rutgers University to determine whether the compound could repel bedbugs, which Zhang says are “very difficult to control.”

The benefits of the compound are many, according to Zhang. In addition to its natural origin, the compound does not dissolve materials like plastic, which DEET can. Zhang also notes the compound is safe on skin and does not pose a hazard to the environment.

References
1. Updated information regarding insect repellents, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, May 8, 2008, available at: www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvbid/westnile/repellentupdates.htm (Accessed Apr 17, 2009)
2. Reregistration eligibility decision: DEET, US Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Prevention, Pesticides and Toxic Substances, Sep 1998, 39–40, available at: www.epa.gov/oppsrrd1/REDs/0002red.pdf (Accessed Apr 17, 2009)
3. DEET, available at: http://pmep.cce.cornell.edu/profiles/extoxnet/carbaryl-dicrotophos/deet-ext.html (Accessed Apr 17, 2009)