Whether during a simple family hike, a picnic or a barbecue on the terrace, mosquitoes are on the prowl. Bad news: you’re on the menu! And these stinging insects know how to spoil the party like no other… So, you have to find effective strategies to get rid of them. Suffice to say that it is out of the question to use mosquito repellent insecticides based on unpleasant and harmful chemicals for your family or bracelets which are of no use! As for the diffusers or vaporizers, it’s the same thing and they smell horribly bad, so no thanks… Fortunately, the aromatherapeutic approach is very effective against this insect which sometimes carries diseases (dengue fever, malaria, chikungunya…). As skin repellents (diluted in vegetable oil) or diffused, they are unbeatable insect repellents and safe if used correctly! Here are the best essential oils to repel mosquitoes!
Note that essential oils cannot be applied to pregnant or breastfeeding women and very young children.
1) Among all the essential oils against mosquitoes, it is impossible not to mention that of Java lemongrass!
Citronella is a classic in the fight against mosquitoes even if its repellent effectiveness is quite relative. However, lemongrass essential oil contains excellent repellent molecules. For example, that of Java contains 40% citronellal and more than 20% geraniol, components which act on the nervous system of mosquitoes to keep them away. And add a lemony smell that is particularly hated by these little flying biting insects as a complement! As a result, you can diffuse a few drops for 30 minutes or place it on candles to facilitate diffusion in the room if you do not have a diffusion device. Also, it can be applied to the skin for protection for 3 to 4 hours on exposed skin areas or on clothing. Count 1 drop for 4 of vegetable oil (not usable under 3 years). Finally, use this soothing essential oil to anti-inflammatory properties pour relieve pain and itching associated with an insect bite.
2) Lemon eucalyptus essential oil, one of the best essential oils against mosquitoes
If it stands out for its effectiveness, it is thanks to its richness in citronellal higher than lemongrass oil. Hence its ultra powerful repellent power! It is also an anti-inflammatory product easily calms the itching sensation. We like it as much in diffusion as in local application on the skin well diluted in vegetable oil. To diffuse it, you can drop a few drops on water (or better: repellent white vinegar as well). Otherwise, always keep a tissue soaked in a few drops on you or in the sleeping bag if you are camping. Also, you can add a few drops to your shower gel or body cream. In any case, do not use it on children under three years old.
Good to know: Citronellal is also found in organic kaffir lime essential oil (around 77% of its composition). This island citrus fruit acts as a natural repellent and destroys insect larvae.
3) Rose geranium, another oil of choice
Are you looking for a great plant to hang in your window for mosquito-free nights? Heading for the magnificent geranium! Composed in high doses of geraniol, a molecule with notable repellent properties, we can’t do better for repel mosquitoes et fight bites. In addition, rose geranium essential oil helps heal the skin and relieves itching. Above all, don’t worry about its flowery and fruity scent! Very pleasant for humans, it remains nonetheless very disturbing for many biting insects.
4) Lavender essential oil… obviously!
In the event of an invasion, an insect repellent drop of true lavender oil (lavandula angustifolia) can save the day. Combining linalyl acetate and linalool, it is perfect for those looking to find a radical solution to repel the invasion. Moreover, it is a great choice to keep flies and ants away as much as possible in addition to mosquitoes. In addition to a repellent effect when applied to sensitive or non-sensitive skin, it is also analgesic and soothing on itching.
5) Peppermint essential oil, the last of these notable anti-mosquito essential oils
It’s not the first oil that usually comes to mind. However, it can indeed avoid a few bites as much as instantly soothe inflammation itchy. Indeed, its cold effect linked to its menthol will have this effect and many others. For example, by diluting a drop in aloe vera, you can effectively refresh your skin. This will have the effect of relieving you from the heat while making you less attractive to these little creatures. In addition, some authors believe that it would help the body to release less CO2. However, mosquitoes are attracted to this molecule. This is also why pregnant women are more targeted by them in summer (they release more CO2).
Other tips in addition to essential oils against mosquitoes
To keep mosquitoes away and protect yourself naturally without using essential oils, you can implement several methods and practices.
Use repellent plants from which essential oils against mosquitoes are derived
Some plants help repel mosquitoes. All of the essential oils mentioned above come from plants which are also natural repellents. You can plant them around your house or use them indoors. However, still others are also very effective. So remember to plant the right plants in your garden. For example, basil, another popular aromatic herb, is a recognized antiparasitic and insecticide in oil and plant form. Others include rosemary, marigold (or calendula), garlic, verbena, lemon thyme, marigold, catnip, sage, lemon balm, ageratum , neem and patchouli.
Adopt physical methods
Install mosquito nets on windows and around beds. This is an effective method of keeping mosquitoes out. Mosquitoes are also bad fliers. Use of fans can therefore hinder them and keep them away. Also be sure to eliminate breeding areas. In particular, avoid stagnant waterbecause they lay their eggs there. So make sure there are no sources of stagnant water around your home (buckets, flower pots, clogged gutters, water in the sink, etc.). Additionally, keep grasses and bushes well trimmed to reduce places where mosquitoes can hide. Just leave an area fallow in a less frequented area of the garden for pollinators and biodiversity.
This also involves wear appropriate clothing. Wearing long, covering, light-colored clothing can reduce mosquito bites, as dark colors are more attractive to mosquitoes. Mosquitoes can bite through thin fabrics, so clothing made from thicker fabric may offer better protection. Opt here for cotton or linen, more pleasant when it’s hot.
Other ideas for natural repellents
Apply cider vinegar Diluted apple juice on the skin can help repel mosquitoes. Otherwise, eat garlic or rubbing a cut garlic clove on the skin can also keep them away, although this may not be pleasant for everyone. You can finally use DIY solutions such as garlic spray. To do this, boil garlic in water and spray this mixture around areas frequented by mosquitoes. You can finally make candles using citronella. This can indeed be an effective method of keeping unwanted people away. Flies won’t like it either just like many other pests!
By combining these different methods, you can significantly reduce the presence of mosquitoes and effectively protect yourself from their bites in a natural way.