NATURAL INSECTICIDES AND INSECT REPELLENTS IN ANTIQUITY - A REVIEW OFTHE EVIDENCE

Archaeoentomological and palaeobotanical research at the Late Bronze A ge site of Akrotiri on the Greek island of Santorini has suggested tha t natural insecticides and insect repellents were used in the storeroo ms of the site. A wide range of methods such as airtight storage, use of plant and animal substances, oils, minerals and ash were employed t o control insect pests and reduce storage losses. Archaeological evide nce from other sites as well as relevant information given by the docu mentary sources and the ethnographic record is reviewed. (C) 1995 Acad emic Press Limited