A groundbreaking scientific study from Northeast India suggests that age-old, smoky remedies passed down by grandmothers may be more than just folklore—they could offer the world an eco-friendly, low-cost, and low-risk alternative to chemical mosquito repellents.

Led by Dr. Lalit Saikia, Ms. Tanjima Tarique Laskar, Dr. Mautushi Das, Dr. Sudarshana Borah, Prof. (Dr.) Atanu Bhattacharjee, Prof. (Dr.) Debarupa Dutta Chakraborty, Prof. (Dr.) Prithviraj Chakraborty, and Dr. Monalisa Bora Deka, the research team conducted an extensive survey across 50 districts in Northeast India. Published in the International Journal of Environmental Sciences, their findings uncover a vibrant, under-recognized tradition of indigenous mosquito control rooted in rural and tribal practices.

Against the backdrop of rising mosquito-borne diseases—Malaria (44%), Dengue (30%), Chikungunya (13%), and Japanese Encephalitis (11%)—the study sheds light on a variety of locally used natural repellents. The most common is the burning of egg trays (used by 32.2% of respondents), followed by Dhuna (30.4%), a resin-based incense with deep cultural significance. Other widely used natural substances include citronella, peppermint, neem leaves, camphor, and orange peels.

“These traditional practices are not merely cultural remnants,” the authors write. “They are practical, accessible, and environmentally safe—especially crucial in areas where healthcare is limited and vector control is logistically challenging.”

Significantly, 57.9% of respondents reported that these traditional repellents are effective, with 14.6% strongly agreeing—demonstrating both community trust and lived experience. However, the study also highlights a troubling trend: the gradual decline in their usage due to doubts about effectiveness, decreasing availability of materials, and time constraints.

This shift is evidenced by a growing reliance on synthetic alternatives—29.8% of respondents use liquid repellents, while 37.4% use mosquito coils or incense sticks, which may contribute to indoor air pollution and chemical exposure. In contrast, traditional methods have minimal ecological and dermatological impact.

The study further strengthens its case by linking these remedies to modern science. Many of the traditional ingredients contain proven bioactive compounds: azadirachtin (neem), citronellal (citronella), eugenol (clove), thujone (wormwood), and limonene (orange peel)—all known for their repellent properties.

However, the researchers caution that a lack of standardization, documentation, and consistent formulation remains a barrier to broader adoption. “There’s a significant opportunity here,” they note. “With scientific validation and refinement, neem- and citronella-based products could reduce dependence on chemical repellents.”

Advocating for a hybrid approach, the study emphasizes the importance of blending traditional wisdom with scientific rigor. Encouragingly, 72.5% of respondents expressed willingness to support traditional methods for mosquito control, though 22.8% were unsure and 4.7% disagreed—highlighting the need for targeted awareness campaigns.

“By bridging knowledge gaps and building community confidence,” the researchers conclude, “these time-tested practices can complement existing public health strategies—especially within the unique socio-ecological landscape of Northeast India.”