Natural plant-derived oils for mosquito repellent development
Exploring non-edible oils from indigenous plants for mosquito repellent properties, aiming to create topical applications and sprays. The research focuses on a plant with eucalyptus-like scent, known for its mosquito-repelling potential, currently at TRL 2.
Overview
This research focuses on the development of mosquito repellents derived from non-edible oils extracted from indigenous plants. The primary aim is to investigate the repellent properties of a specific plant, noted for its eucalyptus-like scent, which is commonly associated with mosquito-repelling characteristics. The goal is to create effective mosquito repellent formulations that can be applied topically or used as sprays, providing a natural alternative to chemical repellents.
Technical specifications
Research focus includes:
- Investigating indigenous plants for natural mosquito-repelling properties
- Extracting oils from plants with potential repellent characteristics
- Conducting phytochemical analyses of leaves, bark, and seeds to identify repellent compounds
- Evaluating physical properties of the oils, such as solubility, viscosity, and thermal characteristics
The research will progress by selecting the most promising oils and developing formulations that can effectively repel mosquitoes.
Technology readiness level
Currently, this research is at Technology Readiness Level 2. The investigation is in the early stages, focusing on the identification and analysis of potential plant-based oils. Future steps include further phytochemical studies and formulation development to advance the technology readiness level.
About University of Botswana
The University of Botswana is a public institution of higher education established in 1982, serving as the first university in the country. It operates across three campuses in Gaborone, Francistown, and Maun, organized into eight faculties covering disciplines such as engineering, health sciences, business, and humanities. The university provides a student-centered environment that integrates teaching, learning, and research to support academic and personal growth. It is distinguished by its role as a leading national research institution, maintaining high-tech facilities and diverse expertise to address both local and global challenges through multidisciplinary collaboration and innovation.
For students, partners, and the government, the university acts as a critical hub for professional development, policy influence, and technical consultancy. It has historically contributed to significant national initiatives, including the development of the Okavango Delta Management Plan. The university actively engages with industry and development agencies, offering research services and innovative solutions. With its established reputation for international research output, it serves as a central resource for sustainable energy, health, social sciences, and indigenous knowledge systems, supporting the socio-economic advancement of Botswana and the wider region.
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