Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 5

Lemon eucalyptus (specifically, oil of lemon eucalyptus or OLE, which is refined from the plant Corymbia citriodora) is scientifically validated as an effective insect repellent. The active component, p-menthane-3,8-diol (PMD), has been extensively studied and is recognized by major health organizations. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) includes oil of lemon eucalyptus as one of the recommended repellents against mosquitoes, alongside DEET and picaridin. Numerous peer-reviewed studies have demonstrated that PMD-based repellents provide protection against mosquito bites that is comparable to lower concentrations of DEET, often lasting for several hours. For example, a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine (2002) found that a 10% PMD formulation protected against mosquito bites for up to 2 hours, similar to a 15% DEET product. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has registered oil of lemon eucalyptus as a safe and effective biopesticide repellent for use on skin and clothing. While the essential oil itself (not refined to increase PMD content) is less effective, the standardized PMD extract is the component used in commercial repellents. Overall, there is robust scientific evidence supporting the use of lemon eucalyptus (PMD) as an effective, plant-derived insect repellent.

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Other ingredients used for Insect Repellant

Other health conditions supported by Lemon Eucalyptus

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