CHAPTER 1

THE PROBLEM AND ITS SCOPE

Rationale of the Study

The years 2021 and 2022 saw an increase in alarming cases of

mosquito-borne diseases in our country—illnesses that are contracted
through the bite of an infected Aedes aegypti mosquito. Fortunately, not all
mosquito bites result in sickness. Only female Aedes aegypti mosquitoes can
actually transmit these diseases. Common forms of mosquito-borne diseases
include the Zika virus, West Nile virus, Chikungunya virus, dengue fever, and
malaria (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2016).

Most cases of mosquito-borne diseases are tallied in tropical and

subtropical regions of Africa, Asia, the Middle East, Central America, and
South America (Gard, 2022). Furthermore, according to the World Health
Organization (2023), chikungunya, dengue, and zika are rising public
challenges in Southeast Asia. Cases of dengue fever, which are common in
the Philippines, were reported to have increased by 118% in 2021. From
January 1 to July 23, there were 92,343 dengue cases, compared to 42,294
cases during the same period (Outbreak News Today, 2022). The prevalence
of chikungunya, a mosquito-borne viral infection transmitted by the same
mosquito that transmits dengue, had increased by 389%. The Philippines
had 318 cases as of July 23, 2022, up from 65 cases. Calabarzon
experienced the greatest increase, increasing by more than 10,000% from
one case in 2021 to 102 cases last year. Cebu had the highest number of
dengue cases among four provinces and three highly urbanized cities in
Central Visayas from January 1 to August 6, 2022. There were a total of
11,475 dengue cases and 72 fatalities during the aforementioned period,
 2

according to the Central Visayas Center for Health Development

Communications Management Unit.

Looking at the numbers, it was made certain that a mosquito bite can
be life-threatening. As a result of a mosquito’s attack, the most alarming
situation of all is having been infected. Mosquito-borne diseases claim the
lives of more people than war, terrorism, and gun violence combined
(Hwang, 2019). To prevent mosquito bites and the spread of disease-causing
agents, insect-repellents are frequently used as the first line of defense.
However, even the most affordable and gold standard of insect-repellents, N,
N-diethyl-meta-toluamide (DEET), is still prohibitively expensive for
low-income populations where repellents are most needed. As schools and
workplaces transition back to full face-to-face operations, individuals are
more than ever exposed to them. It is important that they gear up for
protection. Fortunately, the option of making homemade products had been
offered as an alternative for these commercial products. The researchers
came up with a formula for a product with key ingredients of oregano and
lemongrass extract.

Accordingly, the researchers aimed to provide benchmark data in

hopes of imparting the importance of mosquito bite protection in lessening
the rate of acquiring mosquito-borne diseases through the use of the
following basic research skills: time management, critical thinking,
problem-solving and communication skills, and detail orientation. Moreover,
they were positioned to create a possible intervention that encourages the
public to use the product in order to protect themselves from health threats
caused by mosquitoes through evidence-based data in the form of the
research's findings.
 3

Statement of the Problem

The study aimed to determine the effectiveness of the combination of

oregano (Origanum vulgare) and lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) extracts
as key ingredients for an alternative insect-repellent lotion through
experimentation that explores its lotion properties. Moreover, the researchers
sought to further investigate its effectiveness by comparing the alternative
lotion with a commercial insect-repellent lotion product.

Precisely, this study aimed to answer the following questions:

1. What is the level of effectiveness of the combination of oregano and

lemongrass extracts as an alternative insect-repellent lotion in terms
of:
1.1 Repellency;
1.2 Odor;
1.3 Consistency;
1.4 Skin Reaction

2. What is the level of effectiveness of the commercial lotion product

(OFF Lotion) in terms of:
2.1 Repellency;
2.2 Odor;
2.3 Consistency;
2.4 Skin Reaction

3. Is there a significant difference between the level of effectiveness of

the combination of oregano and lemongrass extracts and the
commercial lotion product (OFF Lotion)?
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Hypotheses

This part of the study presents the null and alternative hypotheses
supplying each problem statement.

1. Ho: There is no significant level of effectiveness of the combination of

oregano and lemongrass extracts as an alternative insect-repellent
lotion in terms of:
1.1 Repellency;
1.2 Odor;
1.3 Consistency;
1.4 Skin Reaction

Ha: There is a significant level of effectiveness of the combination of

oregano and lemongrass extracts as an alternative insect-repellent
lotion in terms of:
1.1 Repellency;
1.2 Odor;
1.3 Consistency;
1.4 Skin Reaction

2. Ho: There is no significant level of effectiveness of the commercial

lotion product (OFF Lotion) in terms of:
2.1 Repellency;
2.2 Odor;
2.3 Consistency;
2.4 Skin Reaction
 5

Ha: There is a significant level of effectiveness of the commercial

lotion product (OFF Lotion) in terms of:
2.1 Repellency;
2.2 Odor;
2.3 Consistency;
2.4 Skin Reaction;

3. Ho: There is no significant difference between the level of

effectiveness of the combination of oregano and lemongrass extracts
and the commercial lotion product (OFF Lotion).

Ha: There is a significant difference between the level of effectiveness

of the combination of oregano and lemongrass extracts and the
commercial lotion product (OFF Lotion).
 6

Conceptual Framework

This portion contains the conceptual framework of the study which

connects the ideas pertaining to the key concepts of the research, provided
in a visual manner.

Figure 1.1 The conceptual framework shows the Input-Process-Output of

Evaluation of the Combination of Oregano and Lemongrass Extract Formula
as an Alternative Insect-Repellent Lotion
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Conceptual Background

The component shown in Figure 1 demonstrates the general idea of

the research study that was conducted. The researchers' main goal was to
determine the effectiveness of the oregano-lemongrass alternative insect
repellent lotion compared to the commercial lotion product (OFF Lotion). As it
is said, the process of proving how effective the alternative product
underwent product comparison through: (1) Tire Testing and (2) Human Skin
Testing.

There were two groups utilized under observation for the Tire Testing:
Group A with a tire applied with the alternative lotion, and Group B with a tire
applied with the commercial lotion product (OFF Lotion). By doing so, it
evaluated the ability of each treatment to repel mosquitoes from the tires.
This was done and assessed by the researchers and their observations after
six days, and having the setups transferred to two different mosquito-prone
locations.

Human Skin Testing was conducted to examine if the alternative

lotion, along with the commercial product, would produce skin reactions. Two
groups were also observed in the testing: Group A with the left arm applied
with the alternative lotion, and Group B with the right arm applied with the
commercial lotion product (OFF Lotion). Lotion qualities such as odor and
consistency were considered in this experiment as well, but only by a single
observation per respondent. There were ten random respondents for these
qualities under assessment, which underwent a "blind item" type of
experiment to prevent any bias with regards to the results. Therefore, they
referred to Groups A and B as Products A (left forearm) and B (right forearm)
and did not disclose the information on which product is which.
 8

After the process of product comparison, the researchers determined

the effectiveness of the oregano-lemongrass alternative insect-repellent
lotion.

Significance of the Study

The results and findings of this study will be beneficial to the following:

Communities. The health of the people in a community in any

specific area must be taken into consideration, especially in places that are
prone to mosquitoes, e.g., squatter areas, flood-prone areas, botanical
areas, etc. Through this study, they will be protected against insects like
mosquitoes to prevent acquiring mosquito-borne diseases.

Healthcare. The results of this study provide healthcare professionals

the chance to assist the public with an effective alternative insect-repellent
lotion by selling it at a reasonable price.

Government. The findings of this study will give the government the
opportunity to supply and promote mosquito bite protection for low-income
people by introducing an inexpensive alternative insect-repellent lotion.

Families. The results of this study aims to safeguard every member of

the family from getting bitten by mosquitoes whenever they are away from
each other. Such as providing their children an insect-repellent lotion while
they’re at school.
 9

Future Researchers. This study will stand as their reference for

future related studies. Since the study aims to achieve better health to
protect oneself from mosquito bites, future researchers have gained ideas to
discover more valuable and advantageous related studies that will be in
demand in the coming times.

Scope and Limitations of the Study

The focal point of this study was to determine the effectiveness of

oregano and lemongrass extracts as a formula combination for an alternative
insect-repellent lotion in reducing the rate of mosquito bite exposure. The
amount of oregano and lemongrass extracts used to create an alternative
served as the study's independent variable, and the experiments’
outcome—the results from the product comparison—served as its dependent
variable.

The final data rooted from the evaluation gathered from the processes
of product comparison with the commercial lotion product, which was
accomplished by ten researchers (for Tire Testing) and ten respondents (for
Human Skin Testing and qualities of odor and consistency). Respondents for
the second aforementioned testing were selected randomly and are bonafide
Grade 11 and Grade 12 students of Southwestern University PHINMA.

Due to technicalities with regards to the uniformity of research group

design, it was decided to conduct the study with only two experimental
groups and no control group. The organoleptic intensity scale and primary
skin reaction test were utilized in comparing the repellency, odor,
consistency, and skin reactions produced by the products, respectively.
 10

To avoid reflecting bias in the results, the selected respondents

underwent "blind item" human skin testing with their consent. They were not
aware of which product was applied to each forearm. They compared them
blindly and referred to them as "Product A" (left forearm) and "Product B"
(right forearm). Furthermore, Aedes aegypti mosquitoes took part in the
study as subjects. The estimated stipulated time frame for this study was a
span of four to five weeks. It depended on the need to examine the topic
further.

Definition of Terms

The following terms are conceptual and operational definitions for a

better understanding of the terms used in the study.

Alternative. An option or a substitute for an existing product. Within

the research, an alternative product named oregano and lemongrass
insect-repellent lotion is accessible in place of the well-known commercial
insect-repellent lotion (OFF Lotion).

Effectiveness. It is the fact of producing the result that is wanted or

intended (Oxford Learner’s Dictionary). In relation to the study, the
researcher will determine the effectiveness of the insect-repellent lotion using
oregano and lemongrass extracts as the main ingredients.

Extracts. A preparation containing the active ingredient of a

substance in concentrated form (Oxford Languages). To boil or evaporate an
aqueous extract—a watery mixture—to release the juice from the oregano
and lemongrass leaves.
 11

Insect-Repellent. These are products that help prevent, eliminate, or

mitigate pests. They can be applied to the skin or items such as lanterns or
candles that use a heating mechanism to disperse repellents. Operationally,
it is the organic output or outcome produced by this study.

Lemongrass. A grass (Cymbopogon citratus) of robust habit native to

southern India and Ceylon that is grown in tropical regions for its
lemon-scented foliage used as a seasoning and that is the source of an
aromatic essential oil (Merriam-Webster). Lemongrass is utilized to keep
insects away by amplifying its aroma.

Lotion. A thick, smooth liquid preparation designed to be applied to

the skin for medicinal or cosmetic purposes (Oxford Languages). Concerning
the research, it is the product of the study that is applied to the skin to avoid
mosquito bites.

Oregano. A bushy perennial mint (Origanum vulgare) with leaves that

are used as a seasoning and a source of aromatic oil (Merriam-Webster). In
accordance with the research, oregano has a pungent scent that repels
insects.

Repellency. It is the quality or the ability to repel (Wiktionary). The

ability of the alternative lotion to repel mosquitoes for eight hours or more, as
regular insect-repellent lotion suggests, has been one of several qualities to
consider upon concluding the product’s effectiveness.
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REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE AND STUDIES

This presents the recent literature and studies on the effectiveness of

oregano and lemongrass extracts as alternative insect-repellent lotions. The
researchers read authors and writings, both local and foreign, that have a
direct bearing on the present study. This relevance is shown by the
proponents in order to give more reason and understanding regarding the
study.

Related Legal Basis

Mosquitoes are still the world’s number one vector of human and
animal diseases and are conspicuous nuisance pests as well. According to
the Enhanced 4S Strategy pursuant to DOH's Administrative Order No.
2018-0021 dated July 25, 2018, one of the preventive measures to ensure
dengue prevention is to secure self-protection. In relation to our study,
oregano and lemongrass have been found effective in preventing mosquito
bites, such as from Aedes aegypt, a type of mosquito that is the known
vector of several viruses, including dengue virus, yellow fever virus,
chikungunya virus, and Zika virus (Benaid, 2019).

Related Literature

Insect-Repellent

One of the most effective ways to avoid mosquito bites is to use

repellents. Silva and Ricci-Junior (2020) report a surge in interest in using
plants to repel mosquitoes. Using insect-repellents is one of the most
effective ways to prevent the spread of disease and the discomfort caused by
mosquito bites. Natural goods have been used to ward off pests for at least
 13

two millennia in China, Egypt, and ancient India. This includes plant essential
oils.

Organic Insect-Repellent

Many chemicals have been used to kill or repel mosquitoes, but they
are also quite dangerous to people. Consumers have recently become
increasingly accustomed to purchasing commercial repellent solutions made
of plant-based chemicals because they are frequently regarded as "safe"
compared to well-known synthetic repellents. The development of new
natural products is urgently required in light of the knowledge of
conventionally used insect-repellent plants gained through ethnobotanical
investigations. In their study, plant-based insect-repellents are discussed as
a form of personal defense. The product was created to provide both
exceptional consumer safety and excellent repellency. In the field trial, this
plant-based repellent made from the leaves of 5 different plants showed
good results, and lemongrass is one of those plants (Shukla et al., 2018).

Lemongrass as an Ingredient for Insect-Repellent

According to Baldacchino et al. (2013), lemongrass oil is an active

substance for Stomoxys calcitrans antennal olfactory receptor cells, as
evidenced by a significant increase in electroantennogram responses to
increasing doses of lemongrass oil. In a flight cage with stable flies having
access to two blood-soaked sanitary pads, one of which was treated with
lemongrass oil, feeding-choice tests revealed that stable flies spent
significantly more time in the untreated zone than in the treated zone. There
were no stable flies on the treated pad, but nine on the untreated pad. Their
findings imply that lemongrass oil could be used as a repellent against stable
flies. It's conceivable that lemongrass oil can also repel mosquitoes since
 14

stable flies and mosquitoes belong to the same family of blood-feeding

animals.

According to Prabhakar et al. (2013), lemongrass essential oil

(Cymbopogon citratus) has been investigated for its repellent activity against
mosquitoes, where tests were performed without the contribution of human
volunteers. Lemongrass oil exhibited an average of 30 minutes of protection
time against mosquitoes to keep them away from the observed area. This is
an all-out (50–80%) protection time in comparison to the activity of the
best-known chemical insect-repellent, N-diethyl-m-toluamide (DEET). They
discovered that lemongrass oil works well as a mosquito repellent. As a
result, lemongrass oil can be a viable option for mosquito repellent.

The G.C. analysis of Indian Cymbopogon essential oil, as well as its

repellent effects against mosquito vectors of malaria (Anopheles stephensi),
filariasis (Culex quinquefasciatus), and dengue fever (Aedes aegypti), have
rebeen proven (Tyagi et al., 1998). This indicates that the lemongrass
ingredient in the repellent lotion is both effective and safe to use.

Shea Butter Factor Against Mosquitoes

According to Maanikuu & Peker (2017), shea butter is a solid fatty oil
extracted from the nuts of the shea (Karite) tree, also known as Vitellaria
paradoxa or V. nilotica. The chemical composition of shea butter includes a
saponifiable fraction composed primarily of stearic and oleic acids with lesser
amounts of palmitic, linoleic, and arachidic acids. It also contains a
substantial unsaponifiable fraction composed of bioactive substances that
are responsible for shea butter’s medicinal properties that can repel insect
bites. Shea butter has been used for mosquito repellent.
 15

Coconut Oil Factor Against Mosquitoes

Coconut oil has been traditionally used as a natural remedy for

repelling mosquitoes and other insects. There have been several studies
conducted to evaluate its efficacy as a mosquito repellent. A study published
in the Journal of Medical Entomology in 2008 found that coconut oil was
effective in repelling mosquitoes when used as a lotion or cream. It found
that coconut oil provided protection for an average of two hours.

Tires Test

Tires have been found to be a common habitat for mosquitoes and

other insects. This is due to the accumulation of water in tires, which
provides a suitable breeding ground for mosquitoes. A study published in the
Journal of Medical Entomology in 2003 found that tires were the most
common habitat for mosquitoes in an urban environment. The study found
that the species of mosquitoes found in tires were often the same species
that were responsible for transmitting diseases to humans. Discarded tires
(Culicidae) from an 8-hectare tire yard were examined for environmental and
water chemistry parameters. Shaded tires contained three times more larvae
than sun-exposed tires. Thus, data show that using tires is effective in testing
for mosquito exposure (Beier et al., 1983).

Oregano and Lemongrass as an Ingredient for Insect-Repellent

Benaid (2019) attempted to ascertain the degree of repellency of

oregano and lemongrass against Aedes aegypti and to utilize them as a
healthier alternative to synthetic chemical repellents for mosquitoes that have
no negative side effects. When mixed with beeswax candles, they determine
the degree of repellency of lemongrass and oregano oil extracts. As a result,
the findings revealed that candle repellents with the combination of both
 16

lemongrass and oregano oil extracts are more effective repellents than those
candles with lemongrass oil extract only or oregano oil extract only.

Standards (Odor, Consistency, and Skin Reaction) that are Considered

in Determining the Lotion Quality

Repellency

Mosquito repellency was tested by determining the bite-deterrence of

product samples applied on an experimental bird's skin against a 2-day
starved culture of Aedes aegypti L. mosquitoes. The 1%v/v solution and
15%v/w cream and ointment preparations of the oil exhibited ≥50%
repellency lasting 2–3 h, which may be attributed to citral, a major oil
constituent. This activity was comparable to that of a commercial mosquito
repellent. Base properties of the lemongrass oil formulations influenced their
effectiveness (Oyedele et al., 2002). Knowing how well a lotion or cream
works to keep mosquitoes away is crucial since it establishes whether or not
it truly keeps insects away when applied to the skin.

Odor

Mosquitoes and ticks are attracted to skin odors and the carbon
dioxide we exhale. They also use heat, movement, and visual cues to find a
possible host (Breugel et al., 2015). In addition, according to Bissinger et al.
(2010), repellents affect an insect's senses, such as smell and taste, to
prevent it from finding a human or animal host. As a result, the odor of the
chosen plants when making an alternative insect repellent lotion should be
considered as well because it is a major factor in repelling mosquitoes.
 17

Consistency

The thickness of a lotion is an important property that can be related

to the lotion’s efficiency, stability, and consumer acceptability (Bagajewiez et
al., 2010). Seeing as consumers have different preferences, the consistency
of a lotion is taken into account when determining its quality. Since this could
enhance the effectiveness and efficacy of the study.

Skin Reaction

The development of new ingredients and products for the consumer

market requires a thorough assessment of their potential for skin
sensitization and the possible clinical manifestation of allergic contact
dermatitis. The process by which low molecular weight chemicals induce and
elicit skin sensitization reactions is complex and dependent on many factors
relevant to the ability of the chemical to penetrate the skin, react with protein,
and trigger the cell-mediated immune response (Robinson et al., 2000). As
every individual has a different type of skin, and some people have allergies
to certain things, such as a component in cosmetics, food, or plants, it is
imperative to ascertain whether there could be any skin reactions that could
happen when the product created from a scratch is put to the skin. If the
product is not evaluated for skin sensitivities, it could be life-threatening.

Review of Related Studies

Organic Insect-Repellent

Recently, plant-based repellents have been utilized to prevent

mosquito-borne illnesses because synthetic repellents, which are most
frequently found in supermarkets, have side effects including coughing,
headaches, and eye discomfort. The use of natural repellents for dengue
prevention that safeguards the environment, lessens the need for pricey
 18

synthetic repellents, and provides jobs for the community. The main critique
of their study is that plant-based natural repellents, rather than
synthetically-laced skin lotions, electronic liquidators, and mosquito coils, can
effectively prevent man-mosquito contact. The findings of experiments on the
skin irritant and protection period indicate that essential oils could be utilized
as natural repellents to avoid contact with dengue vectors in humans
(Rajkumar et al., 2010).

Oregano as an Ingredient for Insect-Repellent

According to the study by Patel et al. (2023), oregano is one of the

promising candidates for plant-based insect-repellents. It is also considered
an effective ingredient for repelling mosquitoes. Oregano is therefore among
the aromatic plants that can deter insects. An excellent component for
creating an alternative insect-repellent product.

Insect-transmitted diseases remain a major source of illness and

death worldwide. A study by Erasga (2019) considered developing an
alternative mosquito repellent incense that could be legally sold; it is far
different from the widely used insect-repellents that are synthetic chemical
repellents and has the disadvantage of being harmful to people, especially
children, because it can lead to irritation. He developed and used a much
safer mosquito repellent that is made using dried oregano leaves, oregano
leaf extract, charcoal, gum Arabic powder, and hot water. As a result, he
tested the product’s effectiveness in different areas, like the kitchen area and
the dishwashing area. He observed that the aroma (smoke) spread in
different directions in each area where he placed the incense. In his study, it
was discovered that using oregano leaves as a mosquito repellent is similar
in terms of effectiveness to commercial brands of mosquito repellent. Given
 19

that it is much healthier and safer, oregano can be used as an alternative

source for repelling mosquitoes.

Oregano is a plant that is used as a spice in many parts of the world

due to its distinctive sensory properties of flavor, color, and aroma. As stated
by Cid-Pérez et al. (2016), the use of oregano in the food industry has
increased due to its phytochemical content as an antioxidant, antimicrobial,
antifungal, and disinfectant, as well as an additivendustry has increased due
to its phytochemical content as an antioxidant, antimicrobial, antifungal, and
disinfectant, as well as an additive. Also, oregano oil is considered to be an
effective antiseptic and insect-repellent. It has some active ingredients, such
as carvacrol, thymol, and -terpinene, reported to be highly effective in
repelling mosquitoes.

Lemongrass as an Ingredient for Insect-Repellent

A study by Abling et al. (2019) focused on harnessing the unique

qualities of lemongrass and garlic mosquito killer spray to protect against
mosquitoes. As a result, they found that lemongrass and garlic mosquito
killer spray is very effective and safe, knowing that it doesn’t contain
chemicals that can be harmful to the skin.

Mosquito-borne diseases are one of the greatest threats to human

health. Long-term use of synthetic repellents makes mosquitoes resistant,
and new methods of mosquito control are needed. In the current study,
researchers developed an inexpensive, safe, and effective formulation for
using essential oils to achieve mosquito larval control and antimicrobial
activity. Oil-in-water nanoemulsions made from three different oils:
Lemongrass (Cymbopogon flexuosus steud.) fabric showed good
anti-mosquito, odor retention, and antibacterial efficacy even after 25
washes, but with reduced mortality. The newly developed repellents and
 20

antibacterial fabrics can provide safe, environmentally friendly, and effective

alternatives to chemical-based repellents for mosquito bite protection (Bhatt
& Kale, 2019).

Pure essential oil and a topical formulation from lemongrass oil

(Cymbopogon citratus Stapf) have each been tested for their ability to repel
Acarus sacchari and mosquitoes. In a particular study, the exposed forearm
and leg of every volunteer in a mosquito-infested area received varying
doses of the topical preparation. The results of the research indicate that
lemongrass essential oil can offer comparable, substantial protection against
mosquito bites and other insect stings to DEET, which is a synthetic
compound (OI & Fabiyi, 2017). Given its safety advantage over chemical
repellents, it may be concluded that lemongrass oil is a promising natural
repellent.

According to Wifek et al. (2016), lemongrass is a tall plant with huge,

striped leaves that have an uneven edge. Its fragrance is smoky, sweet,
herbaceous, and lemony. Lemongrass oil is derived from a native,
sweet-smelling tall sedge and has a variety of health benefits in addition to
being used as an aromatic flavor. Lemongrass is also effective as an
insect-repellent.

Shea Butter Factor Against Mosquitoes

Shea butter is composed of five principal fatty acids: palmitic, stearic,

oleic, linoleic, and arachidic. According to Goreja (2004), shea butter does
not only provide unmatched skin hydration, but it is clinically proven to heal
the skin and reduce inflammation. This is a great anti-aging product to
prevent and protect stretch marks. Another interesting traditional use of shea
butter in West Africa is its use as an effective insect-repellent. Shea butter
 21

creams and lotions have proven to be an effective, affordable, and

convenient means of protecting an individual from Simulium infection.

Coconut Oil Factor Against Mosquitoes

According to Zhu et al. (2018), coconut oil is a highly saturated

triglyceride oil known for its rich lauric (C12:0) and myristic (C14:0) acids.
Certain coconut oil fatty acids have been identified as having substantial
repellency and long-lasting efficiency against insects that transmit diseases
to humans and animals, including mosquitoes, ticks, biting flies, and bed
bugs. Field trials revealed that encapsulating coconut fatty acids in a
starch-based mixture might protect cattle against stable insects for up to 96
hours, or four days. Coconut oil fatty acids were also observed to repel
mosquitos, including Aedes aegypti, the mosquito that can spread the Zika
virus. These coconut oil-derived components provide longer-lasting
protection against insect blood-feeding than any known natural repellant.

Tires Test

According to Marina et al. (2012), discarded tires have long been

recognized as a larval habitat for some mosquitoes because car tires are
important habitats for mosquito development because of the high-density
populations they can harbor and their presence in urban settings.

Mosquitoes in Botanical Area

According to Montarsi et al. (2013), mosquitoes are common in

botanical gardens. Their populations can vary depending on the location of
the botanical gardens. The species overlap with vectors like Ae. albopictus,
which is clearly seen in a botanical garden.
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MATERIALS AND METHODS

Research Method

This study utilized a two-group, true experimental design. Product

comparison occurred through two types of testing: (1) Tire Testing and (2)
Human Skin Testing.

For Tire Testing, the researchers tested two experimental groups:

Group A with a car tire treated with the alternative lotion, and Group B with a
car tire treated with the commercial lotion product (OFF Lotion). There was
no control group for uniformity of research design.

For Human Skin Testing, two experimental groups were under

observation: Group A which had respondents’ skin applied with alternative
lotion (left forearm), and Group B which had respondents’ skin applied with
commercial lotion product (right forearm). The groups would be referred to as
Products A and B respectively as these experiments occurred as a “blind
item” type of test. The respondents were not aware of what was being
applied on both their forearms.

The researchers sought in finding out how much of the variance can
be attributed to the independent variable alone. This was accomplished by
using an independent sample t-test. It examined the means of two
independent groups to see if there was statistical evidence that the
populations’ means differ considerably.
 23

Materials

The materials used in making the insect-repellent lotion using

lemongrass and oregano aqueous extracts were the following: shea butter,
lemongrass aqueous extract, oregano aqueous extract, coconut oil, essential
oil, a container pump, and tires.

Table 1.1
Materials used in the preparation of Lemongrass and Oregano aqueous
Extract Insect-Repellent Lotion and Car Tire Experiment:

Product Ingredients

Shea Butter ¼ cup

Lemongrass Aqueous Extract ⅔ cup

Oregano Aqueous Extract ⅔ cup

Coconut oil ⅛ cup

Lemongrass Essential Oil 10 drops

Container pump 1

Car Tire Experiment

Car Tires 2

Water 1 liter

Oregano-Lemongrass Alternative Lotion 10 grams

Commercial Lotion Product (OFF Lotion) 10 grams

Human Skin Testing

Oregano-Lemongrass Alternative Lotion 1 gram

Commercial Lotion Product (OFF Lotion) 1 gram

 24

Equipments and Utensils

The following equipment and utensils were used in making the insect
repellent lotion: aqueous extracts of lemongrass and oregano, an electric
mixer, a mixing bowl, a measuring cup, a strainer, a wok, a spoon, a
container, and a coke bottle (1 liter).

Table 1.2

Equipment/Apparatus and Utensils used in the preparation of Lemongrass

and Oregano aqueous Extract Insect-Repellent Lotion

Equipment/Apparatus and Utensils Quantity

Electric mixer 1

Mixing bowl 1

Measuring cup 1

Strainer 1

Wok 1

Spoon 1

Container 1

Coke bottle (1 liter) 1

 25

Procedure

1. Sample Collection

Oregano (Origanum vulgare) plant and lemongrass (Cymbopogon

citratus) leaves were collected from January to February 2023, in the
barangays of Cebu City.

Table 1.3
Information on Oregano-Lemongrass leaves collection

Quantity Location Date

12 Kabajar Street Guadalupe, 1/24/2023

Cebu City

6 Kabajar Street Guadalupe, 1/24/2023

Cebu City.

2. Sample Preparation

Lemongrass and oregano collected were immediately washed with

warm water to remove surface soil. Furthermore, unused car tires were
placed at the residence of Cecille Adriana Cordeta and Raine Heart Campos
for the Tire Testing.

3. Production

This experiment was based on a modified procedure from Youtube

Video of Riznel (2021). The lemongrass and oregano plants were gently
removed from their containers and cleaned with clean water to eliminate any
 26

surface soil. The plants were then cleaned and immersed in boiling water for
5-10 minutes at up to 85-95°C to extract the plant extracts. Following the
extraction, another pot of water was brought to a boil to melt the shea butter
and coconut oil. The shea butter and coconut oil were then combined in a
bowl on top of a hot pan of boiling water, along with the lemongrass and
oregano extracts. After mixing, the mixture had to be chilled and refrigerated
for 24 hours. After cooling, the mixture was blended with an electric mixer
until it reaches a lotion-like consistency. Finally, the completed product had to
be placed in a pumping container which can be ready to use.

4. Product Testing and Comparison

Tire Testing. Two experimental groups: Group A (car tire treated with
10 grams of alternative lotion) and Group B (car tire treated with 10 grams of
commercial lotion product). Two setups were placed in two different
mosquito-prone areas: (1) residence of Cecille Adriana Cordeta, and (2)
residence of Raine Heart Campos. Groups were observed after three days.
All ten (10) respondents gave their observations through the Organoleptic
Intensity Scale.

Human Skin Testing. Two experimental groups: Group A (left

forearm applied with the alternative lotion) and Group B (right forearm
applied with the commercial lotion). One (1) gram of both samples were
consumed. The two lotions were worn everyday for five (5) days. Note that
the respondents underwent a “blind item” testing. Therefore, they were not
aware of what product was placed on their left and right forearm and
compared these two products blindly. Groups AB were referred to as
Products A and B respectively. For evaluation purposes, the ten (10)
respondents, who were addressed as persons A-J, had to fill out the Primary
 27

Skin Reaction Test and cite their observations as part of lab journaling as
recommended by the researchers’ hired chemist.

Statistical Treatment

The first method utilized in this study was the statistical mean. The
statistical mean determined the central point of the data being processed as
well as the outcome that was referred to as the mean of the given data.
When this method was used, it was possible for the researchers to identify
the overall trend of a data set as well as to obtain a quick and concise view of
the data. A parametric test such as the t-test was also used, particularly a
two tailed t-test, to see if there was a significant difference between the two
groups that were being compared. The researchers had to determine initially
the p-values of each attribute; if they happened to be less than the
significance level of 0.05, then there are significant difference(s) between the
two groups. However, if there were values more than 0.05, then there are no
significant difference(s) between the two groups.

There was a single observation from the two independent groups; the
Tire Testing conducted a set of two (2) trials with a 3-day interval from the
two (2) selective locations. The data from the Human Skin Testing gathered
from the ten (10) respondents with a total of five (5) successive trials,
assisted the researchers in comprehending how various study factors,
including their results, interacted with one another. Since the subjects were
independent of one another, measurements for one subject had no impact on
measurements for any other subject.
 28

Evaluation of the Product

The product was evaluated by ten random respondents based on the

product's attributes such as its repellency odor, consistency, and its
symptoms for skin reaction. The researchers utilized two scales:
Organoleptic Intensity Scale for the product's attributes repellency, odor and
consistency, and Primary Skin Reaction Test which was used to evaluate for
skin reaction.

Sub Problem #1 (Observational Checklist)

Repellency

Legend:

1- Non repellent

2- Very weakly repellent

3- Averagely repellent

4- Fairly repellent

5- Very repellent
 29

Scale 5 4 3 2 1

Very Fairly Averagely Very weakly Non

repellent repellent repellent repellent Repellent

Oregano-Lemongrass
Alternative
Insect-Repellent Lotion

Commercial Lotion
Product
(OFF Lotion)

Sub Problem #2 (Observational Checklist)

Odor

Legend:

1- Unpleasant

2- Slightly unpleasant

3- No odor

4- Moderately pleasant

5- Extremely pleasant
 30

Scale 5 4 3 2 1

Extremely Moderately No odor Slightly Unpleasant

pleasant pleasant unpleasant

Product A

Product B

Sub Problem #3 (Observational Checklist)

Consistency

Legend:

1- Thin

2- Moderately thin

3- Average

4- Moderately thick

5- Extremely thick
 31

Scale 5 4 3 2 1

Extremely Moderately Average Moderately Thin

Thick Thick Thin

Product A

Product B

Sub Problem #4 (Observational Checklist)

Skin Reaction

Legend:

(E) 0- Normal skin 1- Dusky pink 2- Dull red 3- Brilliant red 4- Deep red-purple

(DD) 0- Normal skin 1- (<25%) 2- (25%-50%) 3- (50%-75%) 4- (.75%)

(MD) 0- Normal skin 1- (<25%) 2- (25%-50%) 3- (50%-75%) 4- (.75%)

(N) 0- Normal skin 1- (<25%) 2- (25%-50%) 3- (50%-75%) 4- (.75%)

 32

Product A Product B
Attributes
0 1 2 3 4 0 1 2 3 4

Erythema (E)

Dry
Desquamation

0 1 2 3 4 0 1 2 3 4
Moist
Desquamation

0 1 2 3 4 0 1 2 3 4
Necrosis

Legend:

0- Not at all 1- A little 3- Quite a bit 4- Very Much

Symptoms Product A Product B

0 1 2 3 0 1 2 3

Do you experience
any skin sensitivity,
irritation, or pain
where the treatment
was given?
 33

Does your skin in the

treatment area itch?

Do you feel any

burning on the part of
your skin where you
are receiving the
treatment?

In what ways have

your skin's reactions
and symptoms
interfered with your
daily activities?