Tomato-Based Mosquito Repellent

Tomatoes contain a natural compound that helps repel mosquitoes and other insects.

A chemical compound found in wild tomatoes is an effective alternative to traditional mosquito repellents. Tomato-based repellents are thought to be as effective as the common DEET-based repellents.

Discovery

A scientist at North Carolina State University tested a variety of natural compounds to find an alternative to DEET-based bug repellents, according to Science Daily. DEET is a chemical compound commonly used in heavy-duty bug sprays. A compound known as undecanone or IBI-246, found in tomatoes, effectively repels mosquitoes, the scientist concluded.

Properties

This compound is part of the tomato's natural defense against mosquitoes. According to the NC State University researcher, entomology professor Michael Roe, the compound is also effective at repelling ticks.

Effectiveness

Roe concluded that repellents containing undecanone are as effective as low-concentrated DEET products at keeping mosquitoes off human skin.

Safety

Products containing these tomato-based compounds rate as slightly safer than those containing DEET on the Environmental Protection Agency's scale of toxicity, according to an article published by Science Daily.

References

• Science Daily: Mosquitos Repelled by Tomato-Based Substance
• North Carolina Cooperative Extension: Insect Repellent Products