Catnip lotion matches Deet effectiveness in Uganda mosquito trials

A lotion made from catnip oil performed as well as a standard Deet formulation in preventing mosquitoes from landing on volunteers during evening tests in eastern Uganda. Laboratory experiments first confirmed the oil's repellent properties. Researchers then applied either a 2 percent catnip lotion, a 6 percent catnip lotion, a 15 percent Deet lotion, or a placebo cream to volunteers' legs and counted landings over several hours.

Study results The 6 percent catnip lotion matched the Deet product in effectiveness, while the 2 percent version was only slightly less effective. The active compound, nepetalactone, is the same substance that produces the well-known response in cats.

The trial was presented Tuesday at the Society for Experimental Biology conference in Florence. A research team based in Uganda and Wales conducted both the laboratory and field portions.

Production plans The same project established that the lotion can be manufactured by a community enterprise using local materials. It has so far been distributed free with grant funding; the next stage aims to increase output and sell the product to create ongoing local income.

A research entomologist not involved in the study noted that topical repellents require repeated application and function best as a complement to other malaria-control measures. Further household testing was recommended before wider distribution.