Develop safer insecticides against bed bugs and other common urban pests

The common bed bug, Cimex lectularius L., is an urban pest which has a worldwide resurgence during recent decade. Professional pest control service is expensive. For many residents, self-application of insecticides for bed bug control is popular. However, most over the counter insecticide products are not effective against bed bugs and pose health concerns when used around beds and sofas. We tested the toxicity of various oils and their interaction effects. Three oil-based formulas were developed. They showed high efficacy in killing bed bugs and several common urban pests.