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.
taken
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. |