CHAPTER I

INTRODUCTION

Background of the Study

Lice are tiny insects that infest a pet's skin and fur, leading to a condition

known as "Trichodectes canis" (Walton & Rice, 2016). Lice thrive in warm, humid

weather and can lay up to 50 eggs per day (Kernif et al., 2018). A single louse

can multiply into 1,000 fleas within just 21 days, making prevention challenging

due to their small size (typically 2-3 millimeters long and weighing about 0.03

grams) (Bush et al., 2017).

They can cause itching, inflammation, pain, and hair loss (National Pest

Management Association, 2022). Unfortunately, all of this can also lead to more

severe health issues, which is why it is essential to recognize and eradicate them

as soon as possible (Mayo Clinic, 2021). Dogs with untreated lice can suffer from

widespread infestations (American Veterinary Medical Association, 2022). Young

puppies, underweight or sickly animals, and elderly pets in unhygienic

environments are particularly vulnerable (Humane Society of the United States,

2023).

Available treatments for lice in dogs do not fully meet desired criteria,

including antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties (Harris, 2022). Some

essential oils, such as citronella, eucalyptus, peppermint, tea tree, and rosemary,

can naturally repel lice (Brown, 2021). However, researchers have found that

lemongrass and coconut oil are generally safe for dogs when used in small,

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highly diluted amounts (Smith & Johnson, 2023). Lemongrass contains citronella

oil, a natural insect repellent effective against fleas and ticks (Davis et al., 2022).

Using lemongrass as a non-toxic repellent can be beneficial, especially since it

lacks harsh chemicals harmful to pets and the environment (Miller & White,

2024).

Additionally, coconut oil is effective in preventing dog lice infestations

(Evans et al., 2021). It contains lauric acid, which easily penetrates the hair shaft

(Nevin & Rajamohan, 2010). Some pet owners have fed coconut oil to their dogs

or applied it to their fur (Evans et al., 2021). A study evaluated the use of

selamectin, a compound derived from coconut oil, in treating lice infestations in

dogs and cats (Becskei et al., 2019). These natural compounds offer a safer and

more sustainable approach to controlling dog lice infestations (Evans et al.,

2021)

This research endeavor seeks to advance the field by exploring

environmentally friendly and potent treatments for managing dog lice infestations.

By delving into the insecticidal properties of natural compounds like lemongrass

essential oil and coconut oil, we aspire to provide safer and more sustainable

solutions for pet owners. These alternatives hold promise in combating the

spread of dog lice (Trichodectes canis) while minimizing harm to pets and the

environment.competence (Sharma, 2004, p. 272).

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 Statement of the problem

Framework of the Study

INPUT PROCESS OUTPUT

 Cymbopogon  Measuring and  Dependent dog
citratus observing dog lice effect of
 Cocos nucifera lice’s total Cymbopogon
 Coconut oil extract mortality rate. citratus and Cocos
 Lemongrass oil  Measuring time of nucifera
extract effectivity
 Determining the
effectiveness of
the coconut oil
extract and
lemongrass oil
extract.

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Significance of the Study

Understanding the effectiveness of natural remedies like lemongrass and

coconut oil can provide pet owners with alternative methods for managing lice

infestations in dogs, potentially reducing reliance on chemical-based treatments

and minimizing adverse effects on pets and the environment. Result of this study

may benefit sectors in the economy such as:

Pet owners. By understanding the efficacy of natural remedies like lemongrass

and coconut oil, they can make informed decisions about treating their dogs for

lice infestations

Veterinarians and Animal Health Professionals. Armed with knowledge from this

study, they can recommend natural remedies to dog owners, emphasizing their

effectiveness and safety.

Future Researchers. This study contributes valuable information to the scientific

community. Researchers can build upon these findings

Hypothesis

Alternative Hypothesis:

Lemongrass and coconut oil are effective in managing dog lice.

Null Hypothesis:

There is no significant difference in managing lice between lemongrass and

coconut oil.

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Scope and Delimitation of the Study

This research aims to assess the efficacy of lemongrass (Cymbopogon

citratus) and coconut oil (Cocos nucifera) in managing dog lice infestations

caused by dog lice (Trichodectes canis). The study will involve conducting

experiments to evaluate the effectiveness of these natural treatments.

Specifically focusing on dog lice Trichodectes canis, the findings may not be

extrapolated to other lice species or parasites. Various application methods

(topical, spray, or bath) will be explored to determine the optimal way to

administer these remedies. However, the study's scope could be limited by the

availability of dogs for testing.

Definition of Terms

LEMONGRASS- A tall, perennial grass with a lemony scent, characterized by

long, thin leaves and a bulbous base, commonly used in culinary, medicinal, and

aromatic applications.

COCONUT OIL - A plant-based oil extracted from the kernel or meat of mature

coconuts, typically solid at room temperature and used for cooking, skincare,

haircare, and various industrial applications.

VETIRENARIAN - A licensed medical professional trained to diagnose, treat, and

prevent diseases and injuries in animals.

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LICE - lice are small, wingless insects that live on the scalp or body of humans or

animals, feeding on blood and causing itching.

INFESTATION - an invasion of insects on a place like a house or an attack by

insects on plant or animals.

DOGS – aw aw aw aw

Review of Related Literature

The study of natural compounds, such as lemongrass (Cymbopogon

citratus) and coconut oil (Cocos nucifera), has gained significant attention in

recent years due to their potential effectiveness in managing dog lice

(Trichodectes cenis) infestations (Evans et al., 2021). Lemongrass contains

citronella oil, a natural insect repellent that has been found to be effective against

fleas and ticks (Davis et al., 2022). This makes it a promising alternative to

traditional chemical-based treatments that can be harmful to pets and the

environment.

Moreover, the insecticidal properties of lemongrass have been

demonstrated in various studies. For instance, a study by Becskei et al. (2019)

found that selamectin, a compound derived from coconut oil, was effective in

treating lice infestations in dogs and cats. Similarly, a study by Evans et al.

(2021) found that natural compounds, including lemongrass and coconut oil, can

provide safer and more sustainable solutions for pet owners.

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 Additionally, the use of lemongrass and coconut oil has been shown to

have minimal side effects compared to traditional chemical-based treatments

(Smith & Johnson, 2023). This is particularly important for young puppies,

underweight or sickly animals, and elderly pets, who are more susceptible to the

harmful effects of chemical-based treatments (Humane Society of the United

States, 2023).

Moreover, the use of natural compounds like lemongrass and coconut oil

can also help reduce the risk of developing resistance to traditional chemical-

based treatments (Brown, 2021). This is because natural compounds have

multiple modes of action, making it more difficult for lice to develop resistance.

Furthermore, the use of lemongrass and coconut oil can also provide

additional benefits for pets, such as reducing inflammation and promoting skin

health (Nevin & Rajamohan, 2010). This is particularly important for pets with lice

infestations, as they often suffer from itching, inflammation, and hair loss (Walton

& Rice, 2016).

Additionally, the study of lemongrass and coconut oil can also contribute

to the development of more sustainable and environmentally friendly treatments

for lice infestations (Miller & White, 2024). This is because natural compounds

are biodegradable and have a lower environmental impact than traditional

chemical-based treatments.

Moreover, the use of natural compounds like lemongrass and coconut oil

can also be more cost-effective than traditional chemical-based treatments (Bush

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et al., 2017). This is because natural compounds can be sourced from renewable

resources and are often less expensive than traditional chemical-based

treatments.

Furthermore, the use of natural compounds like lemongrass and coconut

oil can also promote pet owner education and awareness of lice infestations

(National Pest Management Association, 2022). This is because natural

compounds are often more accessible and easier to use than traditional

chemical-based treatments, making it more likely for pet owners to take proactive

measures to prevent and treat lice infestations.

Overall, the study of natural compounds like lemongrass and coconut oil

holds great promise in providing safer and more sustainable solutions for

managing dog lice infestations. These alternatives offer a range of benefits,

including minimal side effects, reduced risk of resistance, additional health

benefits, sustainability, cost-effectiveness, and pet owner education.

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 CHAPTER II

METHODOLOGY

This chapter presents the methods used in the conduct of the study, it

describes and tackled the research design and data gathering procedure.

Research Design

Materials and Ingredients Needed:

 20 stalks of lemongrass
 150 ml of coconut oil
 Dark glass bottle
 Funnel
 Blender or mortar and pestle
 Cloth Strainer
 Empty Spray Bottle

Steps:

1. Start by cutting the 20 stalks of lemongrass into small pieces. This will
make it easier to crush them and extract their oil.

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 2. Put the lemongrass pieces in the blender or mortar and pestle. Crush
them until they’re bruised and fragrant. This helps to release the oil from
the lemongrass.
3. Place the crushed lemongrass in the dark glass bottle. Then, using the
funnel, pour 150 grams of carrier oil into the bottle. The oil should cover
the lemongrass completely.
4. Screw the lid onto the bottle and give it a good shake. This will help mix
the lemongrass and the carrier oil.
5. Store the bottle in a cool, dark place for a day. This gives the lemongrass
time to infuse the carrier oil with its scent. Shake the bottle every few days
to help the process along.
6. After 1 day, the lemongrass oil should be ready. Use the strainer to
remove the lemongrass pieces from the oil. Now, the homemade
lemongrass oil is ready to use.

Data Gathering Procedures

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 CHAPTER III

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

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 CHAPTER IV

SUMMARY, CONCLUSION, AND RECOMMENDATION

Summary

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