Virtual Booth

This research addresses the environmental problems caused by water hyacinth
(Eichhornia crassipes), an invasive aquatic plant that disrupts ecosystems in Makassar,
Indonesia. Instead of treating water hyacinth solely as waste, this study explores its
potential as a sustainable raw material for mosquito control through the development of
Buzz-Eco, a mosquito-repellent lotion derived from dried water hyacinth biomass.
Bioactive compounds were extracted through harvesting, drying, maceration with 60%
ethanol, filtration, and distillation, and then incorporated into a lotion base. Larvicidal
testing demonstrated a dose-dependent effect, with 2 mL of crude extract causing 100%
mosquito larval mortality within 30 minutes, while lower concentrations showed reduced
effectiveness. The formulated lotion exhibited good stability, smooth texture, and
non-irritating properties. Although direct repellency testing was not conducted, the
presence of bioactive secondary metabolites suggests potential supportive
mosquito-repellent properties. Overall, this study highlights the potential for transforming
an invasive species into an eco-friendly product that contributes to environmental
management and the prevention of mosquito-borne diseases.