Development and Evaluation of a Herbal Spray for its Repellent and Insecticidal Effects Containing Wedelia Chinensis, Aloe Vera and Lavender Oil

Wedelia chinensis extract, Aloe vera gel, and lavender oil as a safe and eco-friendly alternative to conventional chemical repellents. Ethanolic extract of Wedelia chinensis was Mosquito-borne diseases such as malaria, dengue, chikungunya, and Zika continue to pose significant public health challenges worldwide. Although synthetic mosquito repellents are effective, their prolonged use is associated with skin irritation, toxicity, environmental concerns, and the development of insect resistance. The present study aimed to formulate and evaluate a herbal mosquito repellent spray containing prepared by maceration and incorporated into the formulation along with Aloe vera gel, lavender oil, glycerine, polysorbate 80, and distilled water. The prepared formulation was evaluated for physicochemical parameters including pH, viscosity, and spreadability, followed by mosquito repellent activity, antimicrobial activity, insecticidal potential, and skin irritation testing. The formulation exhibited a skin-friendly pH of 5.5–6.5, good spreadability, and suitable viscosity for topical application. Mosquito repellent studies demonstrated approximately 85% repellency, indicating effective protection against mosquito bites. The formulation also showed moderate antimicrobial activity and insecticidal potential while producing no signs of skin irritation or allergic reactions during topical application. The synergistic combination of Wedelia chinensis, Aloe vera, and lavender oil provided enhanced repellent efficacy, skin-soothing effects, and improved formulation stability. These findings suggest that the developed herbal mosquito repellent spray is a safe, effective, biodegradable, and environmentally friendly alternative to synthetic mosquito repellents, with promising potential for further development as a commercial herbal product.

Wedelia chinensis, Herbal mosquito repellent, Lavender essential oil, Aloe vera, Mosquito repellency, Biodegradable formulation, Vector control

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