Sragen (27/07/2024) – In an effort to improve the quality of life of the community and utilize the potential of natural resources, a student of the Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Mathematics, Diponegoro University (UNDIP), Lisaana Sidqy Aliyaan (21) initiated a monodisciplinary program in the form of a creative workshop that invited residents of Wonorejo Village, Kalijambe District, Sragen Regency to make natural anti-mosquito spray. This workshop aims to provide alternative solutions for the community in overcoming mosquito problems while encouraging the utilization of natural materials in the surrounding environment.
Picture 1 Q&A session with Wonorejo villagers
Dengue fever cases continue to increase, especially during the dry season. The triggers of dengue fever cases include residential areas surrounded by large gardens and accumulation of garbage causing dengue viruses from Aedes aegypti mosquitoes with the mechanism of biting a person then the virus enters the bloodstream and dengue symptoms arise. Excessive use of chemical mosquito repellents can cause side effects to health and the environment. Therefore, it is necessary to find alternatives that are safer, environmentally friendly and economical because the majority of Wonorejo Village houses have their own lemongrass and lime plants.
Picture 2 Process of making anti-mosquito spray
Anti-mosquito spray made from lemongrass stem extract has essential oils containing methylheptenone, geraniol, and citronellal. Lemongrass stems can disrupt the breathing and smell of mosquitoes. The workshop explained the process of making anti-mosquito spray step-by-step. First, 300 grams of lemongrass stems that have been washed are cut into small pieces and then put into a chopper. Next, cut 100 grams of lime separated from the seeds and put it in a chopper and blender until smooth. Then boil the lemongrass and lime stems that have been mashed using 1000 ml of water for up to 15 minutes. While waiting for boiling, add ethanol in a ratio of 3: 1. Filter the residue from boiling using a strainer then put it in a spray bottle. Anti-mosquito spray is ready to be used to get rid of mosquitoes and as a disinfectant because it contains ethanol that can kill germs.
The work program that was carried out on Saturday, July 27, 2024 received a positive response and high enthusiasm from the Wonorejo Village community because it was useful and the method of making it was simple and economical using materials available in the surrounding environment. This anti-mosquito spray from lemongrass is not only cheap but also multifunctional as a disinfectant and insecticide.
Author : Lisaana Sidqy Aliyaan
DPL : Dr. Seno Darmanto, S.T, M.T
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