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Citronella

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THE LIFE CYCLE OF THE MOSQUITO

PREVENTATIVE MEASURES

DEET

CITRONELLA

PERMETHRIN

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Citronella oil is extracted from the grass plant Cymbopogon Nardus and is present in lotions as well as candles and incense sticks.

taken from http://www.mardi.my/bdc/herba/english/Citronella.html

Studies have shown citronella lotion to be an effective repellent but only over a period of roughly 2 hours.  To achieve longer protection the lotion must reapplied and tests have shown that citronella lotions are at their most effective within the first 40 mins.

The citronella candles seem to reduce the number of bites sustained when they are sat close to.  However, ordinary candles have also be shown to prevent bites so the reduced number of bites may be the result of heat given off by the candles as it prevents the mosquito from locating a person.  The incense sticks have been found to be no better than the ordinary candles at repelling mosuiotes.

Medium Citronella Bucket - Case of 12taken from http://www.discountcandleshop.com/product_info.php/products_id/40

The citrosa plant is available to buy but it seems to give no protection unless it is badly wounded.