Ugandan Farmers Find Effective Mosquito Repellent in Catnip

Welsh and Ugandan researchers collaborated to demonstrate that a lotion made from homegrown catnip effectively repels mosquitoes in rural Uganda. The team presented their findings at a science conference in Florence, Italy, suggesting a low-cost alternative to DEET and a way to reduce reliance on malaria medication as the parasite develops drug resistance. Laboratory tests showed a 6% nepetalactone lotion performed as well as DEET in preventing mosquito landings, while a 2% solution proved nearly as effective.

The project prioritizes local production to minimize costs and create a sustainable system. Dr. Simon Scofield of Cardiff University explained that commercially available repellents are often unaffordable for subsistence farmers.

The researchers intentionally developed a product that cannot be patented, ensuring widespread access to the lotion's benefits. They now aim to establish a market-driven distribution system that reinvests profits back into the local production cycle.