Using Natural Mosquito Repellents to Avoid Irritating Bites and Diseases

Using Natural Insect Repellents to Keep Mosquitoes at Bay

Mosquitoes can be a real nuisance during the warmer months. Their bites can leave itchy, irritating welts on your skin. But worse than that, mosquitoes can transmit dangerous diseases like West Nile virus, malaria, yellow fever, and Zika virus. That's why it's so important to protect yourself from these pests if you plan on spending time outdoors.

Many insect repellents contain DEET or other harsh chemicals. While these products are effective, some people prefer to use natural options. There are several plant-based essential oils and extracts that have been shown to deter mosquitoes. Using natural mosquito repellents is a safer, more environmentally-friendly way to avoid mosquito bites.

Why Natural Mosquito Repellents?

There are a few reasons why you may want to choose natural mosquito repellents:

• Avoid exposure to harsh chemicals like DEET that can be irritating for some people, especially children.
• Prevent bites naturally without resorting to synthetic ingredients.
• Reduce your carbon footprint by using eco-friendly repellents.
• Repel mosquitoes effectively with plant-based extracts that insects don't like.

Many plant extracts have been scientifically proven to keep mosquitoes away. By harnessing the power of these natural repellents, you can deter mosquitoes without the need for harsh chemicals.

Types of Natural Mosquito Repellents

There are several different types of natural mosquito repellents available:

Essential Oils

Many essential oils contain compounds that naturally deter insects. Some of the most effective mosquito repelling essential oils include:

• Citronella oil - Derived from lemongrass, this oil masks human scents that attract mosquitoes.
• Eucalyptus oil - Has a strong aroma that overwhelms mosquito senses and repels them.
• Peppermint oil - The menthol naturally found in peppermint oil drives away mosquitoes.
• Lemon eucalyptus oil - Contains PMD, a compound shown to be as effective as DEET.
• Lavender oil - Has a potent scent that mosquitoes dislike.

Essential oils can be applied directly to the skin, but should be diluted first to prevent irritation. You can also diffuse essential oils in the air to create a mosquito-repelling aura.

Plant Extracts

Certain compounds found naturally in plants have insect repelling properties:

• Oil of lemon eucalyptus - Derived from eucalyptus trees, it contains PMD to repel mosquitoes.
• Catnip oil - This minty oil drives away mosquitoes up to 10 times better than DEET.
• Soybean oil - Prevents mosquito landings and bites when applied to the skin.
• Neem oil - Extracted from neem trees, it has an odor that insects avoid.

Look for products containing these effective plant-based extracts to repel mosquitoes naturally.

Home Remedies

You can also make DIY natural mosquito repellents at home with items you may already have:

• Citronella candles - The scent masks human smells that attract mosquitoes.
• Herbal smudge sticks - Burning sage, lavender or rosemary drives away nearby insects.
• Cloves - Mosquitoes dislike the aroma of cloves. Put some whole cloves in a humidifier.
• Apple cider vinegar - Wiping it on your skin creates a smell that repels mosquitoes.

Use these handy home remedies to create your own natural mosquito deterrents.

How to Use Natural Mosquito Repellents

There are several ways you can use natural repellents to prevent mosquito bites:

Topical Application

Many natural mosquito repellents are applied directly to the skin. Some options include:

• Spray repellents containing plant oils or extracts.
• Essential oils mixed with a carrier oil and applied to pulse points.
• Balms or salves infused with natural repellents.
• Wristbands or patches coated with repellent oils.

Always follow label instructions carefully and perform a skin patch test before wide application.

Area Sprays

Some natural repellents come in spray bottles designed to cover a larger area. You can spray these around:

• Patios, decks and porches.
• Around doorways and windows.
• Near pools, fountains or standing water sources.
• Around the perimeter of your yard.

This creates a protective barrier to keep mosquitoes away from an entire area rather than just one person.

Diffusers

Plug-in diffusers provide wider mosquito protection by dispersing repellent essential oils into the surrounding air:

• Place diffusers near entry points like doors or windows.
• Use on patios, porches, or wherever you congregate outdoors.
• Add repellent oils like citronella, eucalyptus, peppermint or lemongrass.
• One diffuser can cover up to 1,000 square feet.

Diffusers provide ongoing mosquito protection without needing to constantly reapply repellent.

Candles or Incense

Burning citronella or other essential oil infused candles creates mosquito-repelling aromas. You can also use incense sticks or cones containing natural repellents.

• Place candles or incense around patios, decks, picnic areas, etc.
• Use citronella or eucalyptus scented varieties for the best mosquito protection.
• Position candles/incense near seating areas, food stations, pathways and entrances.
• Replace candles or incense sticks/cones frequently for ongoing results.

Candles and incense provide easy, effective natural mosquito control around get-togethers and outdoor living spaces.

Wearable Repellents

Some natural mosquito deterrents are designed as wearable accessories:

• Wristbands - Treated with repellent oils to create a protective aroma bubble.
• Patches - Adhesive pads infused with plant extracts to repel mosquitoes.
• Clothing - Shirts, pants and hats treated with Permethrin to ward off insects.

These types of mosquito repellents provide targeted, ongoing protection without needing to constantly re-apply sprays or lotions.

Tips for Using Natural Mosquito Repellents

Follow these tips to safely and effectively use natural mosquito repellents:

Read the Label

Carefully read all labels and follow instructions for proper usage. Pay attention to any cautions about using on children or pregnant women.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.