Synopsis

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

Cyperus species, particularly Cyperus rotundus (commonly known as nutgrass or purple nutsedge), have a long history of traditional use in various cultures, including those in Asia and Africa, as insect repellents. Historically, dried tubers and plant material have been burned to ward off mosquitoes and other insects, and topical preparations have been used on the skin. Ethnobotanical surveys document such practices, especially in rural areas where access to commercial repellents is limited. However, the scientific evidence supporting the efficacy of Cyperus as an insect repellent is limited. Some laboratory studies have identified volatile oils and compounds (e.g., cyperene, cyperotundone) in Cyperus species with mild insecticidal or repellent properties, but these findings are preliminary and not widely replicated or commercialized. Thus, while Cyperus is used traditionally for insect repellent purposes, robust clinical or field evidence supporting its effectiveness is lacking, and the strength of evidence can be considered low to moderate based on available data.

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