Journal of Public Health and Diseases

JOURNAL OF PUBLIC HEALTH AND DISEASES
Integrity Research Journals

ISSN: 2705-2214
Model: Open Access/Peer Reviewed
DOI: 10.31248/JPHD
Start Year: 2018
Email: jphd@integrityresjournals.org

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Evaluation of the repellent activity of the oil extract of onion (Allium cepa, L.), against Glossina palpalis gambiensis, (v.)

https://doi.org/10.31248/JPHD2025.163   |   Article Number: 2E08625E4   |   Vol.7 (4) - August 2025

Received Date: 19 June 2025   |   Accepted Date: 27 August 2025  |   Published Date: 30 August 2025

Authors:  Okposio, M. E.* , Dibal, D. M. , Emere, M. C. , Yilwa, V. M. , Pagabeleguem, S. , Bagayogo, A. , Toe, A. I. , Dao, N. D. , Poda, B. A. and Dede, P. M.

Keywords: trypanosomiasis., Glossina palpalis gambiensis, onion oil, public health concern, repellent activity

ABSTRACT

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Transmission of African Trypanosomiasis is caused by the bites of the tsetse fly (Glossina) infected with microscopic parasites of the species Trypanosoma brucei, commonly in sub-Saharan Africa. The tsetse fly constitutes a major threat, and the disease poses a big socio-economic burden in sub-Saharan African countries. This study aimed to evaluate the repellent activity of the oil extract of fresh onion bulbs against Glossina palpalis gambiensis. The oil was extracted using cold maceration. The repellent activity of onion oil extract against laboratory-reared teneral Glossina palpalis gambiensis, was evaluated on the fore-arm skin of five human subjects under laboratory conditions. The data generated were subjected to statistical analysis using One-way analysis of variance. All graded concentrations of onion oil extract demonstrated significant repellent activity (p<0.01) by preventing tsetse flies from landing and probing on human skin, thereby highlighting its potential to reduce fly–human contact and offering a promising approach to lowering trypanosomiasis transmission and the associated public health burden.

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