Mosquitoes are pesky insects that can quickly ruin a summer evening outdoors. Their itchy bites are not only annoying but can also transmit serious diseases. Fortunately, there are certain things that mosquitoes absolutely hate.
One of the things that mosquitoes hate most is the smell of citronella. This natural oil is commonly found in mosquito repellents and candles. The strong scent masks the smell of carbon dioxide and lactic acid that humans emit, making it difficult for mosquitoes to find their next meal.
Another thing that mosquitoes hate is garlic. When consumed or applied topically, garlic leaves a strong odor on the skin that mosquitoes find repulsive. Eating garlic regularly or using garlic-based repellents can help keep mosquitoes at bay.
Citronella Oil
Citronella oil is a natural insect repellent that mosquitoes absolutely hate. It is derived from the leaves and stems of lemongrass plants, and its strong citrusy scent is a powerful deterrent for mosquitoes.
How to Use Citronella Oil:
You can use citronella oil in a variety of ways to keep mosquitoes at bay. You can diffuse it in a oil diffuser, mix it with water to create a spray, or even apply it directly onto your skin (diluted with a carrier oil).
| Citronella oil is | an effective, natural way | to repel mosquitoes |
Lavender
Lavender is known for its pleasant aroma, but mosquitoes can’t stand it. The strong scent of lavender interferes with the mosquito’s ability to locate their prey. Planting lavender in your garden or applying lavender oil to your skin can help repel mosquitoes effectively. Additionally, lavender has calming properties, making it a great natural option for keeping mosquitoes at bay without harsh chemicals.
Peppermint
Why Mosquitoes Hate Peppermint
Peppermint has a strong aroma that is known to repel mosquitoes. The scent is overwhelming for mosquitoes, making it difficult for them to locate their prey.
How to Use Peppermint as a Mosquito Repellent
You can use peppermint essential oil in a diffuser, apply it directly to your skin, or mix it with water to create a spray. Another option is to plant peppermint in your garden to help keep mosquitoes away.
| Pros | Cons |
| Effective natural repellent | May not be as long-lasting as chemical repellents |
| Pleasant scent | Some people may be allergic to peppermint |
Lemon Eucalyptus Oil
Lemon eucalyptus oil is a natural insect repellent that has been found to be effective against mosquitoes. It contains compounds that mosquitoes find unpleasant and can help to keep them at bay. Studies have shown that lemon eucalyptus oil can provide protection against mosquito bites for several hours.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is a natural insect repellent that mosquitoes hate. Its strong scent masks the scent of carbon dioxide and lactic acid that attracts mosquitoes, making it harder for them to find you. Additionally, tea tree oil has antibacterial and antifungal properties, making it a great choice for preventing mosquito bites and soothing any bites you may already have. Simply dilute a few drops of tea tree oil with water or a carrier oil and apply it to your skin to keep mosquitoes at bay.
Basil
Basil is a natural mosquito repellent that emits a strong aroma that mosquitoes dislike.
- Planting basil in your garden or around your patio can help keep mosquitoes at bay.
- You can also crush basil leaves and rub them on your skin to help repel mosquitoes.
- Basil essential oil can be diluted and used in a diffuser to repel mosquitoes indoors.
Garlic
Garlic is a natural repellent for mosquitoes due to its strong smell that mosquitoes find extremely unpleasant.
How to Use:
- Plant garlic in your garden or near entry points to your home to help repel mosquitoes.
- Create a natural mosquito repellent by mixing garlic with water and spraying it around your outdoor living spaces.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon is a natural mosquito repellent due to its strong aroma that mosquitoes find unpleasant. You can create a simple repellent spray by mixing cinnamon oil with water and spraying it around your home or patio area to keep mosquitoes at bay.
Another way to use cinnamon is by incorporating it into your diet. Consuming cinnamon regularly can actually make your skin less appealing to mosquitoes. You can add cinnamon to your tea, coffee, yogurt, or even sprinkle it on fruits or oatmeal for added protection.
Catnip
Catnip (Nepeta cataria) is a herb that is popular for its effects on cats, but did you know that mosquitoes hate it too? The essential oil found in catnip, called nepetalactone, has been found to be a natural mosquito repellent. Simply crush the leaves and rub them on your skin to help keep mosquitoes at bay.
Neem Oil
Neem oil is a natural insect repellent that is highly effective at repelling mosquitoes. It is extracted from the seeds of the neem tree, which is native to India. Neem oil works by disrupting the mosquito’s hormonal system, making it difficult for them to feed and reproduce. In addition to repelling mosquitoes, neem oil also has antiseptic and antifungal properties, making it a versatile and eco-friendly option for mosquito control.
How to Use Neem Oil for Mosquito Repellent
Neem oil can be diluted with water and applied to the skin as a natural mosquito repellent. Simply mix a few drops of neem oil with water in a spray bottle and apply it to exposed skin before going outdoors. You can also add a few drops of neem oil to a diffuser to repel mosquitoes indoors.
Benefits of Neem Oil as a Mosquito Repellent
Neem oil is non-toxic, safe for use around children and pets, and environmentally friendly. Unlike chemical insect repellents, neem oil does not have a strong odor and can be used safely on sensitive skin. Additionally, neem oil is readily available and affordable, making it a practical choice for anyone looking for a natural alternative to chemical mosquito repellents.
Marigolds
Marigolds are known for their strong scent, which mosquitoes find repulsive. Planting marigolds in your garden can help keep mosquitoes away due to the scent they emit. These colorful flowers are not only beautiful to look at, but also serve as a natural mosquito repellent.