Whatever season it may be, one thing that is constant throughout the year is the mosquitoes. From malaria to Chikungunya, mosquitoes are a host to thousands of diseases and sicknesses. We are very much familiar with the repellents available in the market today. These synthetic solutions do their job very well but can be toxic and harmful to our health. Instead, we can opt for natural and organic mosquito repellents and consciously avoid DEET products unless there is a very high risk of mosquito-borne diseases.
Following are some of the best organic alternatives for synthetic mosquito repellents:
1. Lemon Eucalyptus
The lemon-eucalyptus is an essential oil distilled from the lemon eucalyptus tree. One of its major chemical components is citronella, which is a natural oil that repels insects. Multiple studies show that lemon eucalyptus oil can provide up to 95% protection against mosquitoes for 2 to 3 hours.
2. Garlic Water
Garlic contains amino acids and natural sulfur that repels mosquitoes. You can chop or crush a few garlic bulbs and boil them in water. Spraying the water in nooks and corners of the house will keep the mosquitoes at bay. The pungent smell of the garlic repels the mosquitoes for at least a good few hours. It is also very effective in controlling the infestation because of its larvicidal properties.
3. Lavender
Lavender oil or crushed lavender flowers produce a fragrance that repels the mosquitoes. Spraying some lavender in your room will cut down the bug activity, and rubbing some oil on your skin will act as an excellent natural repellent. You can add citronella and eucalyptus oils to lavender oil and use it as an advanced chemical-free mosquito repellent.
4. Neem
It is one of the traditionally used natural insect repellents and insecticides, especially in the Indian subcontinent. Applying Neem oil on your skin will ward off the mosquitoes. For the best effect, mix the Neem oil with coconut oil and rub it all over the body. Along with keeping the mosquitoes away, the mixture will moisturize your skin too. Burning the Neem leaves is also an effective mosquito repellent.
5. Tea Tree Oil
Known for its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and antiseptic properties, tea tree oil is highly effective as a mosquito repellent. Along with preventing bug bites, it also helps in treating the bites. You can directly apply it on the skin, or you can dilute it in jojoba or olive oil.
6. Catnip
Catnip plant is a part of the mint family effectively used as a mosquito repellent in many parts of the world. Multiple researchers have reported catnip to be ten times more effective in keeping mosquitoes at bay than DEET products. The essential oils in the catnip plant have a characteristic odor that repels away the mosquitoes. Take a sprig of catnip and crush it with your hands, thus releasing the oils and the scent. Tuck the crushed part of catnip in your collar or sleeve and any other exposed parts.
7. Lemon and Clove
Flies and bugs are everywhere when it comes down to living on farms or in the countryside. And the combination of lemon and clove has been a star bug repellent for decades in these vicinities. The strong scent of clove and citrus repels all the insects, including mosquitoes. Diffusing lemon and clove essential oils will help to keep the pests away. You can also cut a lemon into half and stuff the insides with cloves to make your own organic mosquito repellent.
Also Read: 5 Ways To Make Your Room More Eco-Friendly
