Description of the Subject Burning coconut shells have been used since ages in rural India to ward away mosquitoes; we studied this traditional method in detail in our research using modern techniques such as dry distillation, solvent extraction, chromatography and infrared spectroscopy to decipher its constitution and efficacy. Objectives In our research, coconut shells in the form of activated charcoal and chemical extracts obtained from the shell were used to test their mosquito ( Aedes aegyptii ) repellence and knockdown efficacy using distinct methods. Methods Solvent extraction, fractional distillation, column chromatography, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and Peet Grady’s chamber were used as per the WHO guidelines for testing insecticides. Results The petroleum ether extract from the solvent extraction technique was found to be most effective, with a 100% mortality rate after 30 mins. The extract mainly contained aromatic compounds, alkanes and ketonic groups. Conclusion Activated charcoal obtained from agro-waste coconut shells can be used as an alternative filler in industrially manufactured mosquito coils. The petroleum extract can be used as a great mosquito repellent in contrast to hazardous chemicals already present in the coils.
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Baindur et al. (2024) studied this question.
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