Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Candleberry (Myrica cerifera), also known as wax myrtle or bayberry, has a long history of traditional use as an insect repellent. Indigenous peoples and early settlers in North America reportedly used the leaves and berries of the plant, often burning them or making candles, to ward off mosquitoes and other insects. The aromatic compounds released by burning Candleberry are believed to have insect-repelling properties. However, while the historical and ethnobotanical literature documents this usage, there is limited scientific research to validate its efficacy. Few modern studies have isolated or tested the active compounds in Candleberry for their insect-repellent qualities. Most of the available evidence remains anecdotal or based on tradition rather than controlled scientific trials. As such, while Candleberry is used for this purpose in folk practices and has a basis in tradition, the overall strength of evidence supporting its effectiveness as an insect repellent is moderate to weak.

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