Review Article on Mosquito Repellent Patch

Mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue, malaria, chikungunya, and Zika virus continue to pose significant global health challenges, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions. Chemical-based mosquito repellents, although widely used, often raise concerns due to possible skin irritation, toxicity, and environmental impact. This has encouraged increased research into natural, plant-derived alternatives that are safer and eco-friendly. The present review focuses on the development of a mosquito repellent skin patch formulated using lemongrass oil, citronella oil, and celery leaf extract. Lemongrass and citronella oils are rich in bioactive compounds such as citral and citronellal, which are known for strong insect-repelling properties. These essential oils act by masking human skin odors, thereby reducing mosquito attraction. Celery leaves provide additional phytochemicals that enhance repellency and may improve the stability of essential oils when incorporated into a patch-based delivery system. A skin patch offers several advantages compared to topical lotions or sprays. It allows controlled release of active compounds, reduces direct skin contact with concentrated oils, and ensures longer-lasting protection without frequent reapplication. This review highlights existing literature on plant-based repellents, mechanism of repellent action, formulation considerations, and benefits of the transdermal patch approach. The study suggests that a natural mosquito repellent skin patch containing lemongrass oil, citronella oil, and celery leaf extract is a promising, safe, and sustainable alternative to conventional chemical repellents, especially for sensitive populations such as children and individuals requiring prolonged outdoor exposure.