Review on tribal medicinal practices of north-east India for mosquito Repellency

Abstract

Mosquitoes are the small flies which belong to the family culicidae. Female mosquitoes are the main culprits in spreading of many diseases like Malaria, Dengue, Chikengunia, Yellow fever, Nile fever etc. According to the WHO research, a no of deaths were reported because of mosquitoes. Mosquitoes are more attracted towards lactic acid, carbon dioxide, sweat, alcohol and many other flower and fruit fragrances discharged through number of perfumes and soaps. Anything that is used as a coating on the body or clothing and which masks ones odour and helps in repelling mosquitoes are called as mosquito repellents. A number of mosquito repellents are availible in the market both in natural and artificial forms. Repellents based on natural sources are gaining today’s market, as people are more resolute to eco friendly products and practices. There are number of age old practices for repelling insects which were followed and are still in practice by tribal dwellings like burning of leaves, roots and application of oils extracted from plant sources like Eucalyptus leaves, Azardirachta Indica, Aloevera etc. The chemical formulations emitted from plant sources helps in repelling mosquitoes, oviposition attractants as well as growth regulators. In the present study, a small attempt was made to review the tribal practices for repelleing mosquitoes followed by tribes of North-East India.