in his relentless struggle against mosquito bitesScience does not cease to encourage trials and research to find the definitive method to stop the effects of these insects on human skin. And despite the progress made, the reality is that the formula that makes humans absolutely safe has yet to be discovered. Now, new research gets one step closer to that goal and has found that: The type of soap we use for washing is one of the determining factors. When it comes to attracting or repelling mosquitoes.
Researchers from Virginia Tech (Virginia State University in the USA) published an article days ago in the journal iScience. The aroma of the soap used daily in hygiene is a determining factor. to prevent bites.
During tests with a group of volunteers, the repulsive properties of many well-known soap brands were investigated, in particular, Dial, Pigeon, Native and Simple Truth.
The experiment involved comparing each volunteer’s ability to attract female specimens of the species. aedes aegypti Before and after washing with this brand of soap.
When the researchers analyzed the results, they found that the type of soap used did affect the bite level, but it was dependent on the brand as well as the volunteers. For example, Dove and Simple Truth increased bites in some volunteers, while Native soap tended to repel these bugs.
And it’s not the most abundant chemical that matters for a mosquito to bite a human, but certain combinations of substances that can exist in each different situation. Then, Researchers say it’s not just the type of soap that matters, but each person’s body odors as well.
In fact, although all four soaps tested contained limonene, a natural repellent, three were found to increase mosquito attraction. it’s like this because “The ratios of chemicals are extremely important in determining whether mosquitoes are attracted”according to Chloé Lahondère, co-author of the study.
Another important part of the experiment consisted of analyzing the chemical composition of each soap to see which ingredient was most effective at repelling mosquitoes. Four substances were identified as attractants of these insects and others. three as repellent: pinene, linalool and limonene.
Most Promising Fragrance: Coconut
In any case, and although there doesn’t seem to be any “magic” substance to repel these creatures, the study’s lead author, Clément Vinauger, expressed the view: “If I wanted to reduce the attraction of mosquitoes, I would choose a soap with coconut scent”.
And there’s also the fact that while the study wasn’t conclusive on any particular formula, after testing various scent combinations and blends, Coconut scent can be particularly effective.
Among the latest research on mosquitoes’ preferences for biting humans, research published earlier this year stands out. These insects prefer to go towards certain colors, especially red, orange, black and blue.. In addition, the carbon dioxide we emit as we breathe attracts mosquitoes.
Other research has highlighted what mosquitoes feel. attracted by carboxylic acids released by the human body naturally and this varies with each individual.
Reference work: https://www.cell.com/iscience/fulltext/S2589-0042(23)00744-7
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Contact address of the environment department: crizclimatica@prensaiberica.es
Source: Informacion
James Sean is a writer for “Social Bites”. He covers a wide range of topics, bringing the latest news and developments to his readers. With a keen sense of what’s important and a passion for writing, James delivers unique and insightful articles that keep his readers informed and engaged.