Resumen de Natural ingredients for a bacteria-free library collection

Antonette Mohan Lobo, Madhuri Tikam

• Fumigation is widely used for getting rid of pests. This treatment makes use of chemicals. However, if repeated applications are not made, the insects and pests tend to breed again. This treatment also does not take care of the growth of microorganisms that feed on organic substances. India has a warm and humid climate that encourages the growth of microorganisms. Indian tradition makes use of various herbs and spices to preserve reading materials. This study was therefore undertaken to view the effect of locally available herbs and spices on paper. Experiments were carried out in a college laboratory. This was done with the objective of studying the inhibitory action of neem, cinnamon, cloves, pepper and a mixture of all of these herbs and spices.