Mosquito coils are probably the cheapest and easily available form of insect repellent. It works by producing smoke which drives mosquitoes away. Mosquitoes coil from approved brands like Baygon contain active compounds like Transfluthrin, a synthetic chemical compound similar to the natural chemical pyrethrins produced by the flowers of pyrethrums for “knock down effects” but not killed.
It look like a puzzle to a first time user. Taken out, each piece look like a spiral pancake which are actually 2 coils stuck together. The trick is to carefully pry them loose without breaking them. I would start from the center and slowly separate by shaking them loose.
There is one metal coil stand included in each box of 10 coils. It come flattened so push the centre to form a ninety degree stand. Light the coil with a candle for about a minute and put it on the stand. Depending on wind and humidity, each coil should last about eight hours.
Mosquito coils were invented in Japan in 1890 and they are most widely used today, with 29 billion mosquito coils are sold each year and 95% used in Asia. (see link)
You need more coils placed in open spaces toward the wind for maximum cover. We would put up five or more coils as the wind change directions through the night. You can check if you have enough smoke cover by shining an LED torch.
As there are only one coil stand per box, improvised stands need to be made as the coils will soon stop burning if placed on flat ground. A little height is needed. The coils should not be placed in the open as jungle dew will soon smother them.
Improvised hanging coil holder using thin wire.
Do not put them in your tent either. You’ll will soon choke with acrid smoke and your tent will soon be smoked with oily residues and become unusable because of the lingering smell.
Do not throw away the stands but save them for your next camping trip.
You can also buy portable coil holders that clamp the coil with inner mesh and can be carried around. With it, the coils can also be burnt at both ends to generate more smoke.
Some people believe that burning coils is like inhaling 100 cigarettes. In that case you can improvise by making smoke with less pungent alternatives like egg cartons and coconut husks. Make sure you put out the flame after lighting it, the egg carton will smolder. Cut the egg carton in halves and lay them in line to extend the smoking time.
Make sure coconut husks are dry as it does not burn well.
