The Effectiveness of Dalandan (Citrus aurantium) Peelings as

Mosquito Repellant Candles

Chapter 1

INTRODUCTION

Mosquitoes are widely recognized as carriers of harmful microbes responsible for

numerous diseases, posing a serious threat to public health. These insects are vectors for illnesses

that contribute to significant rates of morbidity and mortality worldwide. In the Philippines,

mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue, malaria, Zika virus, West Nile virus, and Chikungunya

virus continue to affect thousands of individuals annually, highlighting the urgent need for

effective mosquito control measures (Lei, 2024).

To mitigate the transmission of these diseases, chemical-based solutions, including insect

sprays and mosquito coils, are commonly used in households. These products effectively repel or

eliminate mosquitoes, reducing the risk of bites and disease transmission. However, despite their

effectiveness, prolonged use of these chemical-based products raises concerns due to their

potential to release harmful substances into indoor environments. Studies have shown that the

chemicals present in these products may compromise indoor air quality and pose health risks,

particularly when exposure is sustained over time (Bhardwaj et al., 2023). This growing

awareness of the potential health and environmental hazards associated with synthetic repellents

underscores the need for safer and more sustainable alternatives.

On the other hand, natural remedies, such as those derived from plant-based materials,

have garnered increasing attention as eco-friendly solutions for mosquito control. Among these,
Dalandan (Citrus aurantium) peelings stand out as a promising alternative due to their high

concentration of essential oils, particularly citral and limonene, which are known for their

insect-repelling properties. Integrating these peelings into candle formulations offers a

multi-purpose solution: they not only repel mosquitoes naturally but also provide a pleasant and

aromatic environment for households and ample light to dark surroundings.

Thus, the researchers came up with this study to explore the potential of the Dalandan

peelings as a substitute for conventional chemical-based mosquito repellents by analyzing their

effectiveness when used as candles. By exploring the use of Dalandan peelings, this study seeks

to support the development of innovative, eco-friendly products that prioritize human health and

environmental sustainability without compromising on effectiveness.

BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

Society encounters mosquitoes on a daily basis. They are the source of the grating, itchy

bumps that follow nature walks as well as the natural buzzing background noise. According to

mosquitoreviews.com (2021), by considering mosquitoes as a minor annoyance, people have

learned to accept their existence. The majority of people are unaware of how much more serious

this reality is, though.

Indeed, mosquitoes are regarded as the world's deadliest creatures. Although it may seem

unthinkable, these pesky little creatures are capable of causing a great deal of harm. Actually,

more than a million people die each year as a result of mosquito bites. Most of these deaths are

caused by diseases spread by mosquitoes, with malaria being the most common. Mosquitoes

have caused epidemics all across the world.

 Mosquitoes pose a serious hazard to human health, particularly in areas that are tropical

or subtropical. According to Dr. Edsel Salvana, the majority of Filipinos who reside in tropical

regions are aware of dengue and malaria, the two major diseases spread by mosquitoes.

However, there are numerous additional contagious illnesses that mosquitoes can spread that

annually infect an enormous percentage of the Filipino population. In the Philippines, dengue

fever is reported to have killed 622 people in 2019. (McCarthy, 2019) and 2.7 million across the

entire world, mosquitoreviews.com (2021).

Thus, the researchers conducted a study examining how well dalandan peelings work in

candle formulations to determine whether they could take the place of traditional chemical-based

insect repellents.

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

1. Mosquito and Mosquito-Borne Diseases

Mosquitoes are widely recognized as one of the most dangerous insects because

they spread diseases such as malaria, dengue, chikungunya, and the Zika virus. These

diseases are often spread by mosquitoes like Aedes aegypti, which thrive in tropical and

urban environments. Chemical pesticides have been the primary tool utilized to reduce

the amount of mosquitoes. However, chemical resistance has become a significant issue,

urging the development of new, safer, and more sustainable alternatives (Hillary V. et al.,

2021).
1.1 Mosquito-Borne Diseases in the Philippines

In the Philippines, mosquito-borne diseases are particularly high, with dengue

fever being the most common. According to Contagion Live (2019), with more than

146,000 illnesses and hundreds of deaths reported, the authorities declared a countrywide

dengue epidemic in 2019. Malaria, chikungunya, and the Zika virus are also present, but

in lesser numbers. These diseases are becoming more common, which emphasizes the

need for locally relevant, efficient, and sustainable mosquito repellents.

1.2 The Need for Effective Mosquito Repellents

Traditional chemical-based mosquito repellents, while extensively used, raise

concerns about their possible health and environmental dangers. These problems,

combined with mosquitoes' growing resistance to traditional insecticides, have led

researchers to seek more sustainable, environmentally friendly alternatives.

According to Asadollahi et al. (2019), plant-based repellents have been used for

generations and are a promising solution. Many studies have shown that plant extracts

and essential oils, such as citronella, peppermint, and lavender, are effective against

Anopheles mosquitoes, providing protection for up to 11.5 hours. These natural repellents

are safe, inexpensive, and could serve as good alternatives to synthetic chemicals.
 2. Mosquito repellent

Mosquitoes are known transmitters of a variety of diseases, including malaria,

dengue, and Zika virus. Finding mosquito repellents that are safe, efficient, and

environmentally friendly has become important. Several studies have shown that

plant-based repellents are more effective and safer than chemical ones. According to a

study by Dutta et al. (2019), natural repellents made from essential oils, such as

citronella, eucalyptus, and lemongrass, have shown potential in repelling mosquitos.

These natural repellents provide a more environmentally friendly method of controlling

pests, especially in places where chemical repellents may cause negative health or

environmental effects.

2.1 Problems with Synthetic Repellents

Synthetic mosquito repellents, while effective, bring major challenges such as

skin discomfort, environmental risks, and mosquito resistance. Bahadur et al. (2024)

emphasize the growing demand for natural and sustainable approaches to address these

concerns. Due to their environmentally beneficial qualities, citrus-based repellents

complement worldwide shifts toward non-toxic consumer products and sustainable pest

control. These repellents provide a balance of efficacy and safety.

2.2 Natural Repellents' Effectiveness in Candles

Mosquito-repellent candles with essential oils have proven to be effective

alternatives to chemical repellents. Candles containing natural oils, particularly citrus

 extracts, reduced the population of mosquitoes indoors and outdoors. (Hazarika et al.,

2022). These candles make chemical compounds that act as mosquito repellents while

also providing a pleasing aroma.

2.3 The Use of Citrus Peels in Mosquito Repellents

Citrus peels are known to be effective natural mosquito repellents, including those

from varieties such as Sweet Orange (Citrus sinensis), Sathukudi (Citrus limetta), and

Dalandan (Citrus aurantium). In a study by Antony et al. (2023), an olfactometer was

used to examine mosquito vector behavior and test the mosquito-repellent effects of

citrus peel extracts. Citrus peel extracts from Citrus sinensis (Sweet Orange), Citrus

limetta (Sathukudi), and Citrus limon (Lemon) were found to effectively repel mosquito

species like Aedes aegypti. This study supports the use of citrus peels, such as Dalandan

peelings, as an effective natural mosquito repellent, which could replace manufactured

chemical repellents that may have health risks. Therefore, including Dalandan peelings

into mosquito repellent candles may provide a safer and more eco-friendly way of

dealing with mosquitoes.

2.4 Citrus Oils from Citrus Peels

Citrus oils are widely recognized for their effectiveness as natural mosquito

repellents, largely due to the presence of limonene and other active compounds found in

citrus peels. These compounds disrupt mosquitoes' olfactory systems, deterring them

effectively. According to research by Dehi (2024), essential oils extracted from citrus

fruits effectively reduce attraction. Additionally, citrus-based repellents are biodegradable

and non-toxic, making them a safer option than synthetic chemicals like DEET, which

may be harmful to both humans and the environment.

 3. Dalandan Peelings

Dalandan (Citrus aurantium), also known as sweet orange in the Philippines, is a

citrus fruit with a long history of traditional medicinal and culinary uses. The peelings of

this fruit contain high levels of essential oils, including limonene, which have been found

to have insect-repellent effects. According to research, citrus peel extracts, including

those from dalandan, include chemicals such as limonene and citronellal, which are

known to be effective in repelling mosquitoes and other pests. (Perez et al., 2021).

THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK

Plant-Based Insect Repellents Theory (Maia & Moore, 2011). This theory discusses the

significant role of plant-based repellents in controlling mosquito populations. The study explains

how well essential oils from plants like citrus and eucalyptus repel mosquitoes. These oils have a

strong scent that confuses or blocks mosquitoes' ability to find humans. According to this idea,

dalandan peels, which are high in essential oils, have the potential to be a natural mosquito

repellent when added to candles.

Another theory on which this study anchors is Wright's (1957) olfaction theory. This

theory explains how mosquitoes use their sense of smell to identify humans. Plants' natural

scents may prevent this, making it more difficult for mosquitoes to find human targets. Candles

made from dalandan peels release scents that can cover up human odors and prevent insect bites.
 These theories show that candles infused with dalandan peel may naturally deter

mosquitoes by altering their olfactory perception.

CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK

The conceptual framework in this study is based on the effectiveness of dalandan

peelings as mosquito repellant candles and how safe they are, told by their ingredients, like

limonene and citronellal, and how safe they are, unlike other repellants. It contains toxic

chemicals that can put our lives and family members at risk. Unlike the use of dalandan peelings

as mosquito candle repellents, it is non-toxic and safe for our environment; however, dalandan

peel candles can potentially serve as a mild mosquito repellent due to the natural insect-repelling

compounds in the peels. However, the extraction and infusion process should ensure a high

concentration of essential oils for optimal effectiveness. Further scientific studies or experiments

would be useful to validate and enhance the repellent properties.

CONCEPTUAL PARADIGM

Statement of the Problem

The purpose of this study is to explore the potential of dalandan peels as mosquito repellents. By

addressing this topic, the research aims to contribute to the development of safer, more

sustainable, and effective mosquito control solutions.

To achieve this goal, the researchers plan to conduct an experiment designed to answer the

following questions:

1. What changes could be made to the way candles are made to make the mosquito-repelling

chemicals in Dalandan peels work better?

2. Can dalandan peels provide an effective and environmentally friendly alternative to

chemical-based mosquito repellents?

3. What are the potential benefits of using Dalandan peels as an eco-friendly alternative for

household mosquito control in terms of safety, sustainability, and user satisfaction?

Hypothesis

The study entitled The Effectiveness of Dalandan Peelings as Mosquito Repellant Candles aims

to:

(H₀) : The Dalandan peel extract in mosquito repellant candles had no significant effect on

repelling mosquitoes compared to candles without Dalandan peel extract. Furthermore, the use of

Dalandan peels in candle production provides no benefits over conventional mosquito repellant

products.

(Ha): The Dalandan peel extract exhibits significantly higher effectiveness in repelling

mosquitoes compared to candles without the extract.

SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

This study's findings will significantly benefit the following:

Family - This study highlights the value of mosquito repellents, particularly for families

with children, infants, and the elderly. Using a mosquito-repellent candle made of natural

ingredients can help avoid mosquito bites and lower the risk of mosquito-borne infections

in certain family members.

Community - This research can help improve public health by encouraging individuals

to use mosquito-repellent candles made from natural substances in their homes, lowering

dependency on chemical repellents, and promoting safer, more environmentally friendly

alternatives.

Waste - This study is beneficial for reducing waste by promoting the use of dalandan

peelings in the production of mosquito-repellent candles. By repurposing organic waste

materials, such as fruit peels, the study provides an eco-friendly alternative that reduces

food waste.

Future researchers - The techniques and ideas used in this study may provide a basis

for future research on similar or related topics.

This study can be used as a reference for their research. They can improve the odor and

enhance the repellent effectiveness.

SCOPE AND LIMITATION

This study has been conducted to determine the effectiveness of Dalandan peelings as

mosquito-repellent candles. The researchers came up with the study that attempted to focus on

testing the candles in controlled indoor and outdoor environments to determine their ability to

repel mosquitoes and their duration of effectiveness.

Furthermore, the study was limited to a specific area and focused on a limited number of

mosquito species, which may not reflect global variations. Environmental factors such as wind

and humidity were only partially controlled, and the findings may not be specific for long-term

use or alternative formulations. The main goal of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of

mosquito-repellent candles made from natural ingredients.

DEFINITION OF TERMS

● Citrus aurantium - or commonly known as Dalandan, is widely found in the

Philippines, grown on a small tree in the citrus family.

● Contagious illness - contagious illness is an infectious disease that spreads rapidly from

person to person through direct contact, indirect contact, or respiratory droplets.

● Conventional chemical-based - Refers to traditional repellents or products that rely on

synthetic chemicals, such as DEET or permethrin, to provide pest control.

● Dalandan - a citrus fruit commonly found in the Philippines. It is characterized by its

green or red-orange skin and sour flavor, is sweet and ripe, and it's rich in vitamin C. and

is also commonly used in drinks or eaten fresh.

● DEET - chemical used in many insect repellents to keep mosquitoes and other bugs away

● Disease transmission - the process by which pathogens spread from an infected host to

a susceptible individual. This can occur through direct transmission, involving physical

contact or droplet spread, or indirect transmission, where pathogens transfer via

contaminated surfaces.

● Effectiveness - The ability of a product, method, or process to achieve the intended result

or produce the desired outcome.

● Garnered - Acquired or collected, usually through effort or attention.

● Hazard - a potential source of harm, which can include substances, events, or

circumstances that may cause injury, health impacts, or property damage. It represents the

possibility of adverse effects occurring, contingent upon exposure to the hazard.

● Microbes - organisms that are too small to be seen with the naked eye and require a

microscope for visualization. They include a diverse range of life forms such as bacteria,

fungi, algae, protozoa, and sometimes viruses.

● Mitigate - mitigate means to make something less severe, harmful, or painful. This can

involve reducing the intensity of negative effects, such as mitigating the consequences of

a disaster or alleviating suffering.

● Morbidity - state of having a disease or medical condition, encompassing both acute and

chronic illnesses. It can also describe the incidence or prevalence of diseases within a

population, often expressed as a morbidity rate, which indicates how frequently a disease

occurs in a specific area

● Mortality - state of being mortal, indicating that all living beings are subject to death. It

encompasses the number of deaths within a specific population during a given time

frame, often expressed as a mortality rate.

● Mosquito sensory perception - the ability of mosquitoes to detect and respond to

various stimuli in their environment, such as carbon dioxide, heat, light, and scents.

● Natural remedies - treatments derived from natural sources, primarily plants, aimed at

promoting health or alleviating symptoms. This includes herbal medicine, which utilizes

various plant parts such as leaves, roots, and flowers for medicinal purposes

● Peels - the outer protective layer of fruits and vegetables; it's also known as rind or skin,

which can be removed. It is typically the botanical exocarp and varies in thickness and

edibility.

● Repellant - drives away or causes aversion. As an adjective, it describes items that repel,

such as insect repellants or water-repellant fabrics, which keep insects or water away,

respectively

● Synthetic repellants - chemical substances designed to deter insects and other

arthropods from landing on or biting humans. They are typically more effective and

longer-lasting than natural alternatives.

● Vectors - Organisms, typically insects, that transmit pathogens or disease-causing

microorganisms from one host to another.