Paederia foetida, commonly known as skunk vine or stinkvine, has been traditionally used in various Asian cultures as an insect repellent. The strong, unpleasant odor of the leaves is a primary reason for its application in this context. In traditional practices, fresh leaves are often crushed or placed in living areas to ward off insects, particularly mosquitoes and flies. Ethnobotanical surveys from regions such as India, Bangladesh, and Nepal document this usage, and it is mentioned in several folk medicine compilations. However, scientific studies validating the efficacy of Paederia foetida as an insect repellent are limited. While its volatile sulfur-containing compounds (responsible for the foul smell) are assumed to deter insects, only a few laboratory studies have partially supported this claim, showing some repellency against certain insect species. These studies are not extensive, and large-scale clinical trials or standardized efficacy testing are lacking. Thus, the evidence supporting its use as an insect repellent remains primarily traditional, with only minor scientific investigation. In summary, Paederia foetida’s use as an insect repellent is deeply rooted in tradition and supported by anecdotal evidence, but rigorous scientific validation is currently insufficient. As a result, while it continues to be used in folk practices, its effectiveness by modern standards remains to be conclusively proven.