SCIENTISTS have found a new way to repel and kill ticks and mosquitos using a natural ingredient found in grapefruit and cedar trees, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Nootkatone, the ingredient responsible for the smell and taste of grapefruit, and found in some perfumes, is able to repel and kill ticks, mosquitos and other biting pests, according to a CDC news release.

“Studies show that when nootkatone is formulated into insect repellents, they may protect from bites at similar rates as products with other active ingredients already available and can provide up to several hours of protection,” the release by the CDC stated. Nootkatone has been registered by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for use in insecticides and insect repellents after it was discovered and developed by the CDC, according to the release.

“CDC is proud to have led the research and development of nootkatone,” said Jay C. Butler, deputy director for infectious diseases.

“Providing new alternatives to existing bite-prevention methods paves the way to solving one of the biggest challenges in preventing vector-borne diseases — preventing bites.”

Commercial products may become available as early as 2022.

(SD-Agencies)