Herbs That Repel Insects

If you're someone who loves spending time outdoors, then you know how bothersome insects can be. Mosquitoes, flies, and other pests can make it hard to enjoy your time outside. Fortunately, there are herbs that can help repel these insects. In this blog post, we'll go over some of the best herbs for keeping those pesky bugs away.

The Best Herbs for Repelling Insects

Lavender

Lavender is a beautiful herb with a pleasant fragrance. However, mosquitoes and flies don't like the scent at all. Planting lavender around your outdoor living space can help keep these insects away. Additionally, you can use essential oil made from lavender to create a natural insect repellent spray.

Citronella

Citronella is perhaps one of the most well-known herbs used for repelling insects. This plant produces a strong aroma that mosquitoes and other pests find unappealing. You can use citronella candles or essential oil to keep insects away while you're enjoying the outdoors.

Mint

Mint is another herb that insects tend to avoid. The strong scent of mint is off-putting to many types of bugs, including mosquitoes, ants, and spiders. You can plant mint in your garden or use it to make a homemade insect repellent spray.

Basil

Basil is a flavorful herb that can be used in many different dishes. It's also effective at repelling insects. Mosquitoes and flies don't like the smell of basil, so planting it in your garden or using it in a homemade insect repellent spray can help keep these pests away.

Rosemary

Rosemary is a fragrant herb that's commonly used in cooking. However, it's also effective at repelling insects. Mosquitoes and other pests don't like the scent of rosemary, so planting it around your outdoor living space can help keep these bugs away.

Catnip

Catnip is a plant that cats love, but mosquitoes hate. The essential oil found in catnip is actually more effective at repelling mosquitoes than DEET, which is often found in commercial insect repellents. You can use catnip to make your own natural insect repellent spray.

Other Herbs That Repel Insects

Chamomile

In addition to helping you relax and sleep better, chamomile can also repel insects. This herb produces an aroma that's unpleasant to many types of bugs.

Lemon Balm

Lemon balm is another herb with a pleasant fragrance that's effective at repelling insects. It's particularly good at keeping mosquitoes away.

Thyme

Thyme is a versatile herb that's used in many different dishes. It's also effective at repelling insects, including mosquitoes and flies.

Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus is a plant that's well-known for its medicinal properties. However, it's also effective at repelling insects. You can use eucalyptus essential oil to create a natural insect repellent spray.

Sage

Sage is a flavorful herb that can be used in many different dishes. It's also effective at repelling insects, including mosquitoes and flies.

How to Use Herbs to Repel Insects

Planting Herbs

One of the easiest ways to repel insects using herbs is to plant them around your outdoor living space. You can create a garden that's dedicated solely to herbs, or you can mix herbs in with other plants.

Making Homemade Insect Repellent Spray

You can also use herbs to make your own natural insect repellent spray. Simply combine essential oils from the herbs of your choice with a carrier oil and water. This is a great alternative to commercial insect repellents that often contain harsh chemicals.

FAQs About Herbs That Repel Insects

1. Are these herbs safe for pets?

Most of the herbs listed in this blog post are safe for pets, but it's always a good idea to do your research before introducing any new plants to your home or garden.

2. How effective are these herbs at repelling insects?

While these herbs won't completely eliminate all insects, they can be effective at keeping pests away.

3. Can I use these herbs to repel ticks?

Some of the herbs listed in this blog post, such as lavender and rosemary, may help repel ticks. However, it's important to note that there's no guaranteed way to repel ticks.

4. Can I eat the herbs listed in this blog post?

Yes! Many of the herbs listed in this blog post are commonly used in cooking, so they're safe to eat.

5. Where can I buy essential oils made from these herbs?

You can typically find essential oils made from these herbs at health food stores or online.

Using herbs to repel insects is a great way to enjoy the outdoors without having to deal with pesky bugs. Whether you choose to plant these herbs around your outdoor living space or make your own insect repellent spray, there are plenty of natural options available. So next time you're planning a picnic or barbecue, consider using some of these herbs to keep insects away.