Abstract:
Isolation and characterization o f Mosquito repellent compounds from the seeds o/Nigella
sativa L (Black cumin) is presented. The volatile oil o f the seeds was isolated by steam
distillation followed by extraction with diethyl ether. Mosquito repellent activity o f oils was
investigated by carrying out bioassays with mosquitoes. Seed oil o f N.sativa showed
significant ability to repel mosquitoes. The compounds responsible for the repellent
activity were isolated and characterized by chemical and spectroscopic methods. These
compounds were identified as terpenoids containing carbonyl and hydroxyl functionalities.
