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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Title Page……………………….……………………………………………………………....i

Table of Contents ………………………………...…………………………………………... ii

INTRODUCTION…………………………….……..…………….……………………….... 1

Background of the Study ………………………….………………………………..1-3

Statement of the Problem ……………………………………….………….................3

Hypothesis …………………………………………………………………………....3

Scope and Delimitation ……………………………………….………………………4

Significance of the Study …………………………………………………………...4-6

Theoretical Framework ………………………………………………………...……..6

Conceptual Framework …………………………………………………………….....7

Definition of Terms ……………...……………………………………………..……..7

METHODS ………………………………………………………...…………………...…….8

Research Design ..…………………………………….…………………………..…..8

Sources of Data .…………………………………………………………………...….9

Data Gathering Instrument ……………………….………………………………… 10

Data Gathering Procedure ..……………………..………………………...……..10-12

Statistical Treatment of Data ..………………………………………………...…13-14

Risk and Safety Assessment…………………………………………….………..15-16

References………………………………………………...……………………………... 17-19

Observation Sheet and Sensory Evaluation Sheet…………………………………….......20-23

1
 INTRODUCTION

Background of the Study

Mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue fever and malaria, remain serious

public health concerns in the Philippines, particularly in tropical and rural areas

(Environet ., 2024). In recent years, Ilocos Norte has recorded several cases of

mosquito-related illnesses, especially during the rainy season when stagnant water

becomes a breeding ground for mosquitoes (GMA Network ., 2025). Communities,

including those around San Nicolas National High School, face recurring threats of

dengue outbreaks that can lead to school absences, hospitalizations, and even

fatalities.

While chemical mosquito repellents are widely available, many of them

contain synthetic ingredients like DEET, in rare cases, it may cause skin irritation and

long-term health effects with frequent use (MedicalNewsToday ., 2023). Furthermore,

the use of chemically formulated repellents contributes to environmental pollution and

may harm non-target organisms. With the rising interest in natural and eco-friendly

solutions, researchers are turning to plant-based alternatives that are safer and more

sustainable.

Basil (Ocimum basilicum) is a medicinal herb recognized for its aromatic

leaves, which repel pests. This herb likes to be kept damp, needs good drainage, and

enjoys lots of sun (Garden Design ., 2015). We can apply Basil oil to repel

bloodsucking mosquitoes or, as the saying goes, plant some Basil on our terrace or

balconies (Metode ., 2015).

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 Sampaguita (Jasminum sambac) is known for its beautiful scent. Its soft,

white petals give off a sweet, charming smell, which makes it a popular choice for

religious gifts, leis, and traditional rituals. People know that Sampaguita flowers can

keep mosquitoes away. The flower's scent prevents insects, making it a pleasant and

natural substitute for chemical-based repellents (Philflora ., 2023).

This study explores the formulation of a natural mosquito repellent perfume

using extracts from Basil leaves and Sampaguita flowers. By combining the insect-

repelling capabilities of Basil with the aromatic appeal of Sampaguita, the research

seeks to develop a dual-purpose product that not only protects the user from mosquito

bites but also provides a pleasant scent suitable for daily use.

This study is closely related to the study "The Effect of Citronella Oil as

Anti-

Mosquito Spray" by Halim et al. (2021), which demonstrates how effective plant-

based essential oils are at keeping mosquitoes away. Their results demonstrated the

potential of natural substances like citronella oil, which is produced from lemon grass,

and it is safe and environmentally friendly mosquito repellents. It shows that

citronella oil obtained a 97.3% mosquito mortality rate against Aedes aegypti, which

is a breed of mosquito. Similar to this, our research uses extracts of Sampaguita and

Basil, which also contain active ingredients known to repel insects, to create a natural

mosquito repellent perfume.

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 This study aims to formulate and evaluate a natural mosquito repellent

perfume using Basil leaves and Sampaguita flower extracts. By creating a dual-

purpose product that offers both mosquito protection and a pleasant scent, the research

promotes the use of local, natural ingredients as safer alternatives to chemical

repellents. This project also seeks to highlight the potential of indigenous plants in

creating sustainable health solutions that are affordable, accessible, and

environmentally responsible.

Statement of the Problem

This study aims to determine whether a natural perfume made from Basil and

Sampaguita extracts can effectively repel mosquitoes while providing a pleasant

scent.

To guide this research, the following questions are addressed:

1. How do different concentrations of Basil and Sampaguita extracts affect

the mosquito-repelling effectiveness of the formulated perfume?

2. How effective is the perfume compared to a commercial mosquito

repellent?

3. What are the sensory characteristics of the formulated perfume in terms of:

a. Scent

b. Texture

c. Skin feel upon application

d. Lasting fragrance

4. Is the product safe and acceptable for daily use?

Hypothesis

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Null Hypothesis (Ho) – There is no significant difference in the mosquito-repelling

effectiveness between the formulated Basil and Sampaguita extract perfume and a

commercial mosquito repellent.

Alternative Hypothesis (Ha) – There is a significant difference in the mosquito-

repelling effectiveness between the formulated Basil and Sampaguita extract perfume

and a commercial mosquito repellent.

Scope and Delimitation

This study focuses on the formulation and evaluation of a natural mosquito

repellent perfume using Basil (Ocimum basilicum) and Sampaguita (Jasminum

sambac) as our primary ingredients, combined with a few drops of lemongrass

essential oil (Cymbopogon citratus) and vodka or witch hazel as the carrier and

natural preservative. The study aims to assess the perfume’s mosquito-repelling

effectiveness and its sensory characteristics, specifically scent, texture, skin feel, and

lasting fragrance.

The study is limited to the use of these four ingredients and will not include

other plant extracts or synthetic mosquito-repelling chemicals. The formulation will

be evaluated through fabric-based mosquito repellency tests conducted in a controlled

outdoor environment rather than through direct skin exposure or large-scale field

trials. The perfume’s effectiveness will be compared with one commercial mosquito

repellent. Sensory evaluation will be carried out by a sample group of selected

participants, focusing on immediate user responses. However, the study does not

include long-term tests on product stability, shelf life, or potential allergic reactions

beyond the initial skin compatibility check.

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Significance of the Study

This study is significant as it explores the effectiveness and user acceptability

of a natural mosquito repellent perfume made from Basil (Ocimum basilicum) and

Sampaguita (Jasminum sambac) extracts. By examining both the mosquito-repelling

ability and sensory qualities such as scent, texture, and skin feel, the research offers a

comprehensive look at how natural ingredients can be used to create dual-purpose

products. As consumers increasingly seek safer and more eco-friendly alternatives to

chemical repellents, this study provides valuable insight into whether an herbal

perfume can meet both protection and preference standards.

People in Mosquito-Prone Communities

Individuals living in areas with high mosquito presence, especially students

and families in places like San Nicolas, Ilocos Norte, can benefit from a product that

offers daily protection against mosquito bites while being gentle to the skin and

having a pleasant scent. This study introduces an option that is locally sourced,

affordable, and free from harsh chemicals, promoting safer personal care in everyday

life.

Health Professionals and Public Health Advocates

This study can serve as a foundation for those in the medical and public health

sectors who promote mosquito prevention strategies. While not a medical treatment,

the product contributes to vector control efforts by offering an accessible repellent

that can be used regularly without health risks associated with synthetic ingredients.

Cosmetic and Personal Care Industry

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 Manufacturers in the perfume and skincare industry can use the findings to

design innovative, nature-based products that combine fragrance and function. This

research supports the growing trend toward sustainable, multi-benefit products and

provides early data on consumer preferences and potential effectiveness.

Future Researchers

This study adds to existing knowledge on plant-based mosquito repellents and

herbal formulations. It can guide future studies involving chemical analysis, enhanced

formulations, or large-scale effectiveness trials. The dual focus on functionality and

sensory acceptability lays the groundwork for more advanced research in natural

personal care innovations.

Theoretical Framework

This study is grounded in the theory proposed by R.H. Wright in 1957, titled

"A Theory of Olfaction and of the Action of Mosquito Repellents." According to

Wright, mosquito repellents work by interfering with the olfactory system of

mosquitoes, which relies on detecting chemical cues such as carbon dioxide and body

odors to locate their human hosts. Wright theorized that for a substance to act as a

repellent, it must be volatile and lipophilic enough to reach and interact with the

mosquito’s olfactory receptors. These compounds can either block, confuse, or mimic

natural attractants, thereby disrupting the mosquito’s ability to detect and approach

humans.

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 This theory supports the rationale for using essential oils from Basil (Ocimum

basilicum) and Sampaguita (Jasminum sambac) in the formulation of a mosquito

repellent perfume. Both plants contain aromatic compounds—such as eugenol,

linalool, and benzyl acetate—that are volatile and capable of masking or altering the

scent profile of the human body. By formulating these into a perfume, the study

ensures that these volatile oils are dispersed into the air, potentially forming a scent

barrier that reduces mosquito attraction.

Conceptual Framework

Definition of terms

Mosquito - A small flying insect that bites people and animals, and sucks their blood.

Repellent – Repellents are chemicals designed to discourage an animal from eating a

particular food or residing in a given area while not permanently harming the animal.

Perfume – A substance, extract, or preparation for diffusing or imparting an agreeable

or attractive smell.

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Dengue – A mosquito-borne illness that occurs in tropical and subtropical areas of the

world.

Malaria – A disease caused by a parasite. The parasite is spread to humans through

the bites of infected mosquitoes.

METHODS

Research Design

This study will use a quantitative experimental design, as it focuses on

testing the effectiveness and sensory acceptability of a formulated mosquito repellent

perfume made with Basil and Sampaguita extracts. This approach is appropriate

because the study aims to measure how different concentrations of plant extracts

affect the perfume’s ability to repel mosquitoes and how participants rate its scent,

texture, skin feel, and lasting fragrance. To gather data, the researchers will conduct

mosquito exposure tests to quantify repellency and use structured sensory evaluation

forms to collect feedback from selected participants. The experimental design allows

for a controlled comparison of formulations, while the quantitative approach ensures

that results are measurable, objective, and statistically analyzable.

Three variations of mosquito repellent perfume were formulated for this study.

The specific formulations are as follows:

50% Sampaguita

Treatment 2 75% Basil

25% Sampaguita
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Treatment 3 25% Basil

75% Sampaguita
Sources of Data

Locale of the Study

This study will be conducted at San Nicolas National High School, located in

San Nicolas, Ilocos Norte, Philippines. The school provides a suitable setting for the

research as it is situated in a tropical region where mosquito-borne diseases like

dengue are a common public health concern, especially during the rainy season. It is

an ideal environment for testing the effectiveness and acceptability of the formulated

mosquito repellent perfume. Selected students and staff from the school will

participate in the sensory evaluation and testing process, following proper safety and

ethical guidelines.

Population and Sampling

This study will use purposive sampling, a non-probability sampling technique

where participants are deliberately selected based on specific inclusion criteria. This

method is appropriate for identifying individuals who can safely participate in sensory

evaluation and mosquito repellency testing. The researchers will choose participants

who do not have skin allergies or sensitivities, are willing to use the formulated

product, and are available during the study period. This approach ensures that data is

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gathered from individuals who can provide relevant, accurate, and safe feedback on

the product.

A total of 25 participants will be included in the study. This sample size is

sufficient to gather a variety of sensory responses while keeping the evaluation

process manageable and focused. By selecting informed and qualified individuals, the

study aims to assess both the effectiveness and acceptability of the natural mosquito

repellent perfume.

Data Gathering Instrument

This study will use two primary data gathering instruments: a Mosquito

Repellency Observation Sheet and a Sensory Evaluation Questionnaire.

The Mosquito Repellency Observation Sheet will be used to record the

number of mosquitoes that land on or approach fabric strips treated with different

perfume formulations. This method allows researchers to assess and compare the

repellent effectiveness of the natural perfumes in an outdoor setting, using a safe and

non-invasive approach. Observations will be conducted at a fixed distance during

peak mosquito activity, and data will be recorded systematically to ensure consistency

and accuracy.

The Sensory Evaluation Questionnaire will be used to gather participants’

feedback on the sensory properties of the formulated perfume, including scent,

texture, skin feel, and lasting fragrance. This questionnaire will use a Likert scale (1 to

5) to quantify participant responses and allow for statistical analysis. Participants will

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be asked to evaluate each characteristic after applying the perfume and observing its

performance over a short period.

Data Gathering Procedure

The data collection will be conducted in two phases: the fabric-based

mosquito repellency test and a sensory evaluation by participants.

In the first phase, the mosquito repellency test will be done using a fabric

exposure method. Clean cotton cloth strips will be sprayed with each of the perfume

formulations: (1) treatment 1, (2) treatment 2, (3) treatment 3, and (4) a control with

no extract. These cloth samples will then be placed in open containers and positioned

outdoors in a mosquito-prone area during peak mosquito activity (e.g., late afternoon).

Each sample will be observed from a safe distance for 20 minutes. Researchers will

count and record the number of mosquitoes that land on or approach each cloth using

a standardized observation sheet. This setup avoids the need to handle mosquitoes

directly, while still allowing researchers to compare the repellency of each

formulation.

In the second phase, a sensory evaluation will be conducted to assess the

perfume’s scent, texture, skin feel, and lasting fragrance. Each of the 25 purposively

selected participants will apply a small amount of the perfume to their wrist or

forearm and complete a Sensory Evaluation Questionnaire using a Likert scale. This

will help determine which formulation is most acceptable in terms of user experience.

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 All participants will be briefed before data collection, and safety and ethical

guidelines will be strictly followed throughout the process.

Process in making the Mosquito Repellent Perfume (Spray Method)

1. Extract Preparation

 Basil Extract: Fresh Basil (Ocimum basilicum) leaves will be crushed and

steeped in boiling water for approximately 10 minutes. The mixture will be

allowed to cool, then strained to obtain the extract.

 Sampaguita Extract: Sampaguita (Jasminum sambac) petals will be gently

crushed and steeped in hot water for approximately 10 minutes. After cooling,

the extract will be strained and collected.

2. Formulation

The Basil and Sampaguita extracts will be combined in a sterilized spray

bottle with witch hazel or high-proof alcohol (such as vodka), which serves as

a carrier and natural preservative.

3. Addition of Lemongrass Essential Oil

A few drops of lemongrass essential oil (Cymbopogon citratus) will be added

to the mixture to enhance its mosquito-repelling properties. Lemongrass oil is

known for its strong scent and active compounds such as citronellal and

geraniol, which are effective against mosquitoes.

4. Testing for Skin Compatibility

Before full application, a small patch test will be conducted on the skin of

each participant to check for possible allergic reactions or irritation.

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 5. Application

The final product will be applied by spraying a small amount onto the skin or

clothing, avoiding the eyes, mouth, and broken skin areas. The perfume will

then be evaluated for both repellency effectiveness and sensory qualities.

Statistical Treatment of Data

This study will use both descriptive and inferential statistical methods to

analyze the data collected from the mosquito repellency tests and sensory evaluations.

For the mosquito repellency test, the number of mosquito landings on fabric

strips treated with different perfume treatments will be recorded. The mean number of

landings for each treatment group will be computed, and a One-Way Analysis of

Variance (ANOVA) will be used to determine whether there is a statistically

significant difference among the groups.

The basic formula for the ANOVA F-value is:

Where:

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  MSB = Mean Square Between =

 MSW = Mean Square Within =

 SSB = Sum of Squares Between Groups

 SSW = Sum of Squares Within Groups

 k = number of groups

 N = total number of observations

For the sensory evaluation, responses will be gathered using a Likert scale,

and the data will be analyzed using the weighted mean to summarize ratings for

each sensory attribute (scent, texture, skin feel, and lasting fragrance).

The formula for the weighted mean is:

Where:

 x = scale value

 w = number of respondents who selected that value

All results will be organized in tables and graphs to support interpretation and

conclusions based on the study’s findings.

NORMS FOR INTERPRETATION OF WEIGHTED MEAN:

Rating Weighted Mean Descriptive Writing

5 4.21- 5.00 Excellent

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4 3.41- 4.20 Good

3 2.61- 3.40 Moderate

2 1.81- 2.60 Poor

1 1.00- 1.80 Very poor

Risk and Safety Assessment

This study involves the formulation and evaluation of a natural mosquito

repellent perfume using Basil (Ocimum basilicum) and Sampaguita (Jasminum

sambac). While these are generally safe, precautions will be taken to minimize any

potential risks to the participants and researchers.

Before applying the perfume to the skin, researchers will first test the product

on non-skin surfaces such as fabric or paper to assess its scent, consistency, and

reaction over time. Only when the perfume shows no signs of adverse effects such as

excessive residue, irritation-related odor, or instability will it be tested on the skin.

This approach ensures that the formulation is stable and safe for short-term skin

contact.

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 During the mosquito repellency test, treated fabric strips will be used

instead of applying the perfume directly to participants. This avoids exposing anyone

to potential mosquito bites and eliminates the risk of mosquito-borne diseases. The

testing will be conducted in mosquito-prone outdoor areas, with researchers observing

from a safe distance and under adult supervision.

All plant materials will be properly cleaned, and tools and containers used

during preparation will be sanitized to maintain hygiene and prevent contamination.

The final perfume product will be stored in clean, labeled spray bottles and handled

carefully throughout the study.

Participants involved in the sensory evaluation will be informed about the

purpose and contents of the product. Only individuals without known sensitivities to

herbal or scented products will be selected to participate. In the event of any irritation

or discomfort, participants will be advised to discontinue use immediately and wash

the affected area with mild soap and water. First aid materials will be available on-

site, and participants may withdraw from the study at any time.

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 REFERENCES

Cambridge University Press. (2025). Mosquito. In Cambridge English

Dictionary. Retrieved from

https://dictionary.cambridge.org/us/dictionary/english/mosquito

Climent, D. (2015). Why does basil repel mosquitoes? Revista Mètode.

Retrieved from

https://metode.org/metodes-whys-and-wherefores/why-does-basil-

repel-mosquitoes.html

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Dictionary.com. (n.d.). Perfume. In Dictionary.com. Retrieved from

https://www.dictionary.com/browse/perfume

Environet Pest Control. (n.d.). Mosquito borne diseases in the Philippines.

Environet Pest Control. Retrieved from

https://environet.com.ph/blog/mosquito-borne-diseases-in-the-

philippines/

Forsey, L. (2023). Is DEET bad for you? Medical News Today. Retrieved from

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/is-deet-bad-for-

you#questions-to-ask-a-doctor

Gabriel-Galban, J. (2025). Dengue cases in Ilocos Region increase by 114%.

GMA Regional TV. Retrieved from

https://www.gmanetwork.com/regionaltv/news/106995/dengue-cases-

in-ilocos-region-increase-by-114/story/

Halim, Rd., Lesmana, O., & Sitepu, F. Y. (2021). The effect of citronella oil as

19
 anti-mosquito spray. International Journal of Mosquito Research, 8(5),

44–47.

Internet Center for Wildlife Damage Management. (n.d.). Repellents.

Retrieved from https://icwdm.org/management/repellents/

Mayo Clinic Staff. (2023). Malaria: Symptoms & causes. Mayo Clinic.

Retrieved from

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/malaria/symptoms-

causes/syc-20351184

Mayo Clinic Staff. (2024). Dengue fever: Symptoms & causes. Mayo Clinic.

Retrieved from

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dengue-fever/sympto

ms-causes/syc-20353078

PhilFlora. (2023). Fascinating facts about the Philippines’ national flower.

PhilFlora. Retrieved from

https://www.philflora.com/info/blog/fascinating-facts-about-the-

philippines-national-flower

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Wright, R. H. (1957). A theory of olfaction and of the action of mosquito

repellents. The Canadian Entomologist, 89(11), 518–528.

Yoo, C. (2022). 12 mosquito repellent plants. Garden Design. Retrieved from

https://www.gardendesign.com/plants/mosquito-repellent.html

Mosquito Repellency Test Observation Sheet

Title of Study: SCENTINEL: A Natural Mosquito Repellent Perfume

Formulated with Basil Leaves (Ocimum basilicum) and Sampaguita

(Jasminum sambac) Extracts

Date: ____________________

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 Time: ____________________

Location: ____________________

Weather Condition: ____________________

Observer’s Name: ____________________

Trial no. 1

Treatment Times No. of No. Landings Repellency Remarks

exposed Mosquitoes Observed Observed

(minutes) Present (Yes/No)

50% Basil

50% Sampaguita

75% Basil

25% Sampaguita

25% Basil

75% Sampaguita

Commercial Spray

Trial No. 2

Treatment Times No. of No. Landings Repellency Remarks

exposed Mosquitoes Observed Observed

(minutes) Present (Yes/No)

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50% Basil

50% Sampaguita

75% Basil

25% Sampaguita

25% Basil

75% Sampaguita

Commercial Spray

Trial no. 3

Treatment Times No. of No. Landings Repellency Remarks

exposed Mosquitoes Observed Observed

(minutes) Present (Yes/No)

50% Basil

50% Sampaguita

75% Basil

25% Sampaguita

25% Basil

75% Sampaguita

Commercial Spray

APPENDIX A

SENSORY EVALUATION SHEET

Participant Information:

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 Participant Name: ______________________________________________________

 Date: ____________

Instructions:

Please evaluate each treatment based on the sensory properties listed below. Rate it

using the given scale 1-5. Higher scores indicate a more favorable evaluation.

Treatment 1 (50% Basil, 50% Sampaguita)

1. Scent

Rating (1-5): _____

2. Texture

Rating (1-5): _____

3. Skin feel upon application

Rating (1-5): _____

4. Lasting Fragrance

Rating (1-5): _____

Treatment 2 (75% Basil, 25% Sampaguita)

1. Scent

Rating (1-5): _____

2. Texture

Rating (1-5): _____

3. Skin feel upon application

Rating (1-5): _____

4. Lasting Fragrance

Rating (1-5): _____

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Treatment 3 (25% Basil, 75% Sampaguita)

1. Scent

Rating (1-5): _____

2. Texture

Rating (1-5): _____

3. Skin feel upon application

Rating (1-5): _____

4. Lasting Fragrance

Rating (1-5): _____

Thank you for your participation!

__________________________

Name and Signature of Evaluator

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