There is a lot of talk about Thermacell Mosquito Repellent. I had the goal of researching the product to determine if it would be a viable resource in our ultimate goal to keep the mosquitoes at bay. A minimum of 5 hours was spent in gathering data and cross referencing the information so that it would correlate with a minimum of 2 views from our scientific community. That being said the following is facts as gathered not created in a lab and observations of those facts. So I will briefly touch on the Thermacell Mosquito Repellent device. This device claims to not use flames, chemicals or DEET. They researched plants toxic to mosquitoes and identified the component responsible for repelling them. They re-created this component in a lab to be scent free and non-toxic. This is called Allethrin, the device uses a fuel cartridge to heat a small mat saturated with Allethrin releasing it into the air therefore creating a potential 15-foot protection zone free of mosquitoes.
Does it work? As long as you have refillable cartridges and mats the Thermacell does reduce you exposure to mosquitoes in the area and the amount of bites sustained.
Safety? Allethrin, the active ingredient in Thermacell, is classified as a non-persistent insecticide, (meaning it breaks down relatively quickly in the environment. It doesn’t leave any residue in the environment where it’s operated, but Thermacell should always be used in a well-ventilated area).
How it works – Allethrin is a type of neurotoxin, acting both on the peripheral and central nervous systems by modifying the kinetics of voltage-sensitive sodium channels, resulting in an increase of sodium permeability across the channel and paralysis of insect’s organs.
Allethrin may be harmful to any insect it comes in contact with since it causes paralysis which includes but is not limited to bees.
Allethrin is highly toxic to cats!
Allethrin can damage a dogs’ kidney!
Human exposure can cause asthma attacks with shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing, and/or chest tightness. Exposure may cause bronchitis to develop with coughing, phlegm, and/or shortness of breath. ► d-trans-Allethrin may damage the liver and kidneys.
The Thermacell product should be kept away from food and food preparation areas to prevent direct ingestion of Allethrin.
Based on information available regarding this product, the benefits do not outweigh the risks. We recommend utilizing other means to address any mosquito issues.f
