Which one of the following is used in preparing a natural mosquito repellent?
Correct Answer C. Lemongrass
Explanation
Lemongrass (Cymbopogon) is a tall perennial grass widely grown in tropical regions, well-known for its potent natural insect-repellent properties.
– The plant extracts yield essential oils rich in active compounds such as citronella, citral, and geraniol.
– These volatile oils act as a natural spatial repellent by masking the sensory carbon dioxide and lactic acid cues that female mosquitoes rely on to locate hosts.
– Commercial mosquito repellent coils, balms, sprays, and lotions frequently deploy citronella oil derived from lemongrass as an eco-friendly botanical alternative to synthetic chemical agents like DEET.
Hence, the correct option is Option C.