Mosquito Repellent From Frog Skin

Filed in archive Drugs, Vaccines and Therapeutics on February 23, 2006

This entry is submitted by Gloria Gamat, via Creative Reporter.Mosquito repellents that are currently available are made up of either synthetic chemicals such as DEET, or chemicals derived from plants like Citronella.

Researchers at the University of Adelaide found, however, that secretions from the dumpy tree frog are more effective in warding off mosquitoes, and hold potential as a natural mosquito repellent. In their study published in the latest issue of Biology Letters, mice given these secretions remained bite-free for approximately 50 minutes compared to 12 minutes for the untreated group.

Additionally, two other species - the desert tree frog and Mjoberg's toadlet - released mosquito repellent odour from their skin, although their secretions were not tested.

Source: Lab Technologist.ComAbout Gloria Gamat: Gloria is a Chemist and a single mom. Gloria also blogs about motherhood at EMothersOnline and about life and travel in the Philippines at The Philippine Culture Blog and at Pinoy Travel Blog respectively.