BATASAN HILLS NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL

IBP Road Batasan Hills, Quezon City

SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, AND ENGINEERING

PROGRAM

(STE)

Testing The Efficacy of Oregano (Origanum vulgare) as a Spray Based Insect Repellent

Romeo Ruzol Cereñado III

Jess Francis L. Carbonilla

Emiel Klien D. Valencia

8-STE Lyra

Ma’am Iodelyn Cataluña

Research Adviser

April 12, 2024

Date
 Testing The Efficacy of Oregano (Origanum vulgare) as a Spray Based Insect Repellent

INTRODUCTION

As a response to the widespread use of mosquitoes, this research topic aims to lessen insects

temporarily in just minutes. This study aims to test the efficacy of Oregano (Origanum vulgare)

as an organic option for insect repellents, unlike other repellents that use chemicals that may be

dangerous for human health when inhaled, this study helps make a safer, less toxic alternative.

This study offers a wider approach to using fewer toxic materials for hygienic uses.

The utilization of oregano as a spray-based repellent offers several advantages. Firstly, as

mentioned it is a safer and less toxic material that won’t be much of a danger when inhaled.

Also, this will lessen the number of oregano plants wasted since this study can use both fresh and

near-rotten oregano leaves.

SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

This study holds significant implications for both households and environmental health. By

investigating the effectiveness of oregano-based sprays as insect repellents, the research aims to

provide households with an alternative, potentially safer solution to traditional chemical insect

repellents. If proven effective, oregano-based sprays could offer a natural, eco-friendly option for

insect control, reducing reliance on synthetic chemicals that may pose health risks to humans and

harm the environment. Additionally, understanding the efficacy of oregano in repelling common
household insects can contribute to the development of sustainable pest management strategies,

promoting healthier living environments and fostering coexistence with nature.

SCOPE AND DELIMITATION

This research aims to investigate the efficacy of oregano-based sprays as insect repellents,

encompassing both indoor and outdoor environments. Specifically, the study seeks to ascertain

the effectiveness of various concentrations of oregano extract in repelling common household

insects, such as mosquitoes, ants, and flies. Additionally, the research endeavors to evaluate the

duration of protection provided by oregano-based repellents and assess any potential adverse

effects on human health and the environment. Nevertheless, certain limitations exist within this

study. While efforts will be made to explore the efficacy of oregano spray outdoors, the primary

focus will be on indoor applications. Moreover, the research primarily addresses short-term

repellent effects and may not provide comprehensive insights into the long-term effectiveness of

oregano as an insect repellent. Furthermore, the scope of this investigation is confined to the

repellent properties of oregano and does not extend to its potential therapeutic applications, such

as treating insect bites.

RESEARCH QUESTIONS

1. What are the chemical compounds in oregano extract that contribute to its insect-repellent

properties?

2. What is the concentration of these compounds required to achieve effective insect repellency?

3. How does the effectiveness of oregano extract as an insect repellent compare to other

commercial brands?
HYPOTHESIS

Alternative Hypothesis- The oregano spray will lessen the amount of insects

Null Hypothesis- The oregano spray will not lessen the amount of insects

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

The use of natural repellents to prevent mosquito bites has been a topic of interest for

researchers. Menger, Loon, and Takken (2014) conducted a study to assess the efficacy of

candidate mosquito repellents against the background of an attractive source that mimics a

human host.

The findings of their study suggested that the efficacy of mosquito repellents can be evaluated in

settings that mimic natural conditions. In a similar study, Mng'ong'o et al. (2011) investigated the

effectiveness of repellent plants as a natural screening method to prevent mosquito house entry in

tropical rural settings. Their results indicated that repellent plants could provide affordable and

natural protection against mosquitoes.

The findings from these studies provide valuable insights into the potential of natural repellents,

such as oregano, in controlling mosquito populations. However, there are still some knowledge

gaps that need to be addressed in future research. One potential area for future research is to

conduct a comparative study to evaluate the efficacy of oregano-based mosquito repellent in

different environmental conditions.

Furthermore, future studies could focus on optimizing the formulation of oregano-based repellent

and exploring its potential use in combination with other natural repellents to enhance its

efficacy. Additionally, research could be conducted to investigate the mechanisms of action of

oregano compounds on mosquitoes to provide a better understanding of its repellent properties.

METHODOLOGY

Preparation of materials:

● Oregano

● Cheesecloth

● Saucepan

● Blender

● Spray bottle

● DEET

Preparation of Oregano Extract

To start, gather fresh and clean Oregano leaves, and crush them thoroughly using a mortar and

pestle or a food processor. Next, in a saucepan, combine the crushed Oregano leaves with two

cups of distilled water and simmer the mixture over low to medium heat for about 30 minutes.

This simmering process allows the beneficial compounds in the Oregano to be extracted

effectively.
Straining Process

After simmering, let the mixture cool down before straining it carefully using a piece of

cheesecloth or a fine mesh strainer to separate the liquid from the solid plant material. Squeeze

the cheesecloth gently to extract as much liquid as possible.

Enhancement with Carrier Oil

Once strained, it's time to enhance the effectiveness of the Oregano extract by mixing it with a

carrier oil. Olive oil or coconut oil are both excellent options for this purpose, as they possess

their own beneficial properties. Measure out the desired amount of carrier oil and combine it

with the strained Oregano extract in a clean container. Thoroughly mix the two components

together until they are well incorporated.

Addition of Diethyl-meta-toluamide (DEET)

To further boost the insect-repelling properties of the solution, add Diethyl-meta-toluamide

(DEET) to the mixture. DEET is a commonly used active ingredient in insect repellents known

for its effectiveness against various pests. Carefully measure and add the appropriate amount of

DEET to the Oregano extract and carrier oil mixture, and stir gently to ensure even distribution.
Transfer and Storage

Once the solution is thoroughly mixed, transfer it into clean, airtight spray bottles or containers.

Label the bottles appropriately, indicating the contents and date of preparation for easy

identification. Store the Oregano extract-based insect repellent in a cool, dry place away from

direct sunlight to maintain its potency and effectiveness. Before each use, shake the spray bottle

well to ensure uniform dispersion of the ingredients.