by Edg Adrian A. Eva, Correspondent
The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) is developing a mosquito deterrent derived from forest materials to bolster the nation’s initiatives against dengue.
Experts from the DOST-Forest Products Research and Development Institute (DOST-FPRDI) are transforming residual byproducts from essential oil extraction, such as cinnamon bark, almaciga, and pili resin, into incense cones and sticks that act as insect repellents.
According to DOST, these substances inherently possess properties that repel insects.
Preliminary experiments, including the “test cage method,” have demonstrated that the incense formulated by DOST-FPRDI is quite effective in repelling mosquitoes and houseflies.
They have also examined the chemical elements accountable for repelling insects.
“May mga nakita at na-detect na chemical components na responsible for repelling these insects like yung creosol and furfural— na common na ginagamit for fungicide, pesticide, (and disinfectant), mga ganon [“We have identified and detected chemical components responsible for repelling these insects, such as creosol and furfural, which are frequently employed as fungicides, pesticides, and disinfectants,” remarked Ms. Florena B. Samiano, head of the Institute’s Flavors and Fragrances from the Forest Technology Program (F3TP) during an interview.
Additionally, initial responses indicate that the smoke generated by the incense is not irritating to the eyes and nose and produces an agreeable aroma, Ms. Samiano added.
Though preliminary studies indicate the efficacy of the DOST-FPRDI-formulated incense, Ms. Samiano stated that additional testing concerning sensory acceptability and large-scale industrial application is necessary.
“Usok pa lang yung tinest namin. It’s still recommended for further laboratory testing. Para mas safety na i-ano (gamitin) ng tao [We have only tested the smoke so far. Further laboratory testing is still suggested to ensure its safety for human application],” she elaborated.
According to Rico J. Cabangon, Director of DOST-FPRDI, the DOST is dedicated to utilizing the potential of wood and non-wood products to tackle the nation’s critical challenges, such as dengue.
“The forests of the Philippines abound with natural resources that can aid in the fight against dengue and other viral illnesses,” Mr. Cabangon expressed in a statement.
As of February 21, the Department of Health (DOH) reported 15,134 cases of dengue from January 19 to February 15. This raises the overall number of cases for the year to 43,732, reflecting a 56% increase compared to the same timeframe last year.
Pilot testing the innovation
The incense formulated by DOST-FPRDI is scheduled for pilot trials with industry collaborators in the second to third quarter of the year, Ms. Samiano stated.
They intend to introduce this technology in locations with essential oil extraction facilities, potentially in Zambales, Bacolod, and Bicol.
Ms. Samiano noted that disseminating this technology would assist partners in repurposing a significant amount of raw materials leftover from the extraction process, which would otherwise be wasted.