Nassima MEGHAZI

Ms. Nassima MEGHAZI

Department of Agriculture and Forestry Zoology, École Nationale Supérieure Agronomique, Algiers, Alger, Algeria
orcid

Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

1Year (2026-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

View All Publications
7 August 2026 in Insects
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
NMNassima MEGHAZI
Nassima MEGHAZI
ABAbdel Madjid Benzehra
Abdel Madjid Benzehra
ABAbdenour Boumechhour
Abdenour Boumechhour
ABAissam BOUSBIA
Aissam BOUSBIA
RMRudy Caparros Megido
Rudy Caparros Megido
SBSlimane Boukraa
Slimane Boukraa
Mosquitoes are significant public health insects responsible for numerous vector-borne diseases. Injudicious chemical use has developed metabolic and genetic resistance in mosquitoes. This study evaluated the repellent efficacy of five essential oils (EOs) from local plants [Mentha spicata I, Ruta tuberculata, Mentha spicata II, Lavandula latifolia, and L. stoechas]. M. spicata I and R. tuberculata EOs were extracted using Clavenger hydrodistillation. Simultaneously, the remaining EOs were obtained through a local extraction distillation unit. Chemical composition was identified using GC-MS. Repellency was assessed using the arm-in-cage method, by rearing Culex pipiens s.l. and Aedes albopictus in the laboratory. Additionally, mixtures containing 15% DEET, 15% IR3535, 5% vanillin, and 10% M. spicata I EO were tested. Both mosquito species were clearly repelled by all EOs. M. spicata I was most potent at 10% concentration. The complete protection time (CPT) at 10% M. spicata I EO was increased using blended mixtures containing 15% DEET, 15% IR35353, or 5% vanillin. Regional variations in M. spicata EOs were detected. This study may serve as a foundation for cosmetic manufacturers and pest control products. Developing botanical and hybrid (natural and synthetic) formulations could provide strong protection against insect bites, particularly from disease-vector mosquitoes, helping to prevent vector-borne diseases.