A Comparative Analysis of Natural Scorpion Repellents

Abstract

The population of arthropods increases with time due to their rate of reproduction and this have
tremendously amplified the susceptibility of human or plant attack. Under normal circumstances, this could
be easily controlled. However, existing methodologies are gradually becoming unsuitable for pest control.
Methods such as chemical control are usually designed to kill certain species of pest and could be potentially
detrimental to human health in the long run through ingestion of these substances. Although most of the
biological control strategy usually involves the introduction of natural enemies periodically, the most
common method involves the use of predators, parasitoid and microbial antagonists which are unfortunately
deterred by effectiveness, and cost of implementation.
Presently, scientists adopt the use of extract of plants (such as artemisia, rosemary, cinnamon, ginger etc.)as
scorpion repellents.However, this study focuses on the adaptation of biological and environmentally
sustainable methodologies by using Fresh leaves from parent plants and an examination to know if the
repellence activities of the plants are time dependent. A statistical evaluation of the conducted experiment
which was based on the use of natural plant-based repellents like Citrus spp (Citrus sinensis and Citrus
maxima) and mint leaves (Mentha piperata) for the repellent of scorpion proved to be time independent and
an effective method as opposed to the existing methodologies which are not environmentally friendly and
requires technical expertise. The results showed that the