A new mosquito repellent was discovered: What does it repel pests?

Garlic has long been known as a natural remedy against insects. However, recent studies have shown that its effect may be stronger than previously thought.

Demokrat.az reports that modern science has obtained new results on this issue and has explained ways to protect against mosquitoes at home during the night.

According to research published in the journal "Cell," certain compounds in garlic not only repel flies and mosquitoes but also weaken their reproductive ability. After the effect of these substances, the insects' mating and egg-laying activity decrease. This could potentially enable the development of accessible and environmentally friendly pest control agents in the future.

The study began with an unusual experiment. While studying mosquito behavior, scientists hypothesized that some fruits and vegetables might affect their reproductive functions. To test this hypothesis, purees from various products were prepared and a kind of "Swedish buffet" was presented to the flies.

The results were unexpected: no product increased mating, but garlic completely halted it. Additionally, the insects stopped laying eggs.

Afterward, the scientists investigated the cause of this effect and found that mosquitoes are most sensitive to the taste of garlic. The odor barely plays any role.

In the next phase, researchers identified the substance responsible for this effect. This compound is "diallyl disulfide," which is currently used in the food industry and cosmetic supplements. Contact with this substance causes avoidance reactions in flies and mosquitoes, and weakens their reproductive behavior.

One of the most important aspects of the discovery is that garlic also affects mosquito species considered dangerous to humans. These mosquitoes are carriers of diseases such as yellow fever, dengue fever, and the Zika virus.

In other words, one of the most effective mosquito repellents at home could be creams and other products containing garlic extract. Interestingly, this effect is possible even without the characteristic garlic odor.

The authors of the study believe that this method may assist in creating new natural pest control agents based on common plants and agricultural products. Such substances are considered a safer alternative to chemical insecticides.

Moreover, protecting against mosquitoes at night not only improves sleep quality but also reduces the risk of allergic reactions and other unpleasant consequences of bites.