Lesson
Catnip Lotion Repels Mosquitoes Like Deet
Read this news story in English at three levels, easy, standard, and advanced (B1–C1) — with vocabulary and a comprehension quiz.
A study finds catnip lotion is as effective as Deet for repelling mosquitoes, offering a cheaper alternative for rural communities.
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Standard — Natural English
57 words · ~1 min readEasy version (A2–B1)
A new study shows that catnip lotion can keep mosquitoes away just like Deet. This is important because many people in Uganda cannot afford expensive repellents. Catnip is a plant that makes cats happy, and it also helps keep bugs away.Standard version (B1–B2)
Researchers have discovered that a lotion made from catnip is as effective as Deet in repelling mosquitoes. This finding is significant for rural Ugandan communities, where many people cannot afford commercial mosquito repellents. The active ingredient in catnip, nepetalactone, not only attracts cats but also repels insects, making it a promising alternative in the fight against malaria.Advanced version (C1–C2)
Recent research presented at the Society for Experimental Biology conference has revealed that a lotion derived from catnip, a common herb in the mint family, is as effective as Deet in repelling mosquitoes. Conducted in Uganda, the study highlights the potential of catnip oil as a cost-effective solution for local communities, particularly given the rising resistance to traditional insecticides. The active compound, nepetalactone, is known for its ability to induce euphoria in cats, but it also possesses insect-repelling properties. This finding could play a crucial role in malaria prevention, especially in rural areas where access to commercial repellents is limited.Lesson audio
Standard level
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Test your understanding
01What is the main finding of the study?
02What is the active ingredient in catnip?
03Why is catnip lotion important for rural Ugandan communities?
Discussion
How do you think natural repellents like catnip can impact public health in rural areas?
Vocabulary
repellent word
a substance used to drive away insects
“The catnip lotion acts as a repellent for mosquitoes.”
malaria word
a serious disease caused by parasites transmitted through mosquito bites
“Malaria affects millions of people each year.”
nepetalactone word
a chemical found in catnip that attracts cats and repels insects
“Nepetalactone is the active ingredient in catnip.”
subsistence word
the action or fact of maintaining or supporting oneself at a minimum level
“Many rural Ugandan farmers rely on subsistence farming.”
commercial word
related to or engaged in commerce; for profit
“Commercial mosquito repellents can be too expensive for some families.”