By Apple Jean C. Martin-de Leon, DOST-STII
Forest products are being eyed by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) as natural and cost-effective protection against mosquito-borne diseases.
Experts from the DOST-Forest Products Research and Development Institute (DOST-FPRDI) have looked at the potential of cinnamon barks, and pili, and almaciga resins made into incense cones and sticks as insect repellent. The materials used are process residues or wastes from essential oil production, and naturally possess insect-repelling properties.
“DOST is one with the nation in finding ways to curb the ‘worrisome rise’ of dengue cases. The Department has consistently and actively contributed to addressing health concerns through R&D, technological advancements, and community-based interventions. As dengue cases continue to soar, so does the need for sustainable solutions to it,” DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum, Jr. stressed.
In this project, after testing the incense formulations, the incense cones and sticks produced showed high potential to ward off mosquitoes and houseflies. The chemical components were analyzed to identify repellent substances and sources of the scents.
“The presence of creosol and furfural detected from the smoke emitted by the incense products suggests the potential of the incense formulations as disinfectant, fungicide and pesticide. Further studies may be conducted to optimize their application for such products,” explained Forester Florena B. Samiano, leader of the Institute’s Flavors and Fragrances from the Forest Technology Program (F3TP).
“The Philippine forests are replete with natural resources that can help combat dengue and other viral diseases. Thru DOST-FPRDI’s expertise and years of extensive research on forest products, we continue to harness the potential of wood and non-wood products to address pressing concerns of the nation,” DOST-FPRDI Director Rico J. Cabangon stated.
Common in tropical countries like the Philippines, the dengue virus is passed on to humans by infected mosquitoes. The Department of Health recently reported an upsurge of dengue cases, with numbers being 40% higher compared to the same period last year.
Green & Sustainable
During the production of essential oils, volumes of process residue usually go to waste such as spent barks, leaves, resins and hydrosols. This prompted DOST-FPRDI researchers to optimize the use of aromatic raw materials by transforming spent cinnamon barks, almaciga and pili resin and hydrosol into incense.
“Through a circular economy approach, the DOST-FPRDI has initiated converting wastes into valuable products as an opportunity to reduce environmental harm while creating income-generating projects. This also provides natural alternatives to chemical insect repellents,” said Samiano.
“While initial study has shown the DOST-FPRDI-formulated incense to be effective, further sensory and acceptability testing of the products, and industry-scale application, are recommended”, she added.
The DOST-FPRDI is the research and development arm of the DOST and is part of the Philippine government’s efforts to build a strong science and technology ecosystem in the country. It remains at the forefront of scientific research on wood and non-wood utilization and conservation, pioneering initiatives that promote the responsible use of forest resources while safeguarding the biodiversity. For more information, please visit https://fprdi.dost.gov.ph/ or collaborate with DOST-FPRDI thru This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
DOST-FPRDI-developed incense made from cinnamon bark
