Lemon Grass Repellent: The Natural Solution for Mosquitoes and More

Are you tired of constantly battling mosquitoes in your home or backyard? Do you want to avoid using harsh chemicals to repel them? If so, then lemon grass repellent may be the solution you're looking for. Not only is it a natural and safe alternative to chemical-based repellents, but it also has many other benefits. In this article, we'll explore what lemon grass repellent is, how it works, and why it's such a great option for repelling mosquitoes and other insects.

What is Lemon Grass Repellent?

Lemon grass, also known as Cymbopogon citratus, is a tropical plant that is commonly used in cooking and herbal medicine. It has a distinctive citrus scent and flavor, which comes from its high content of citral oil. This oil is also what makes lemon grass an effective mosquito repellent. When applied topically, it masks the scent of humans and animals, which mosquitoes use to locate their prey. As a result, mosquitoes are less likely to bite when exposed to lemon grass oil.

The Science Behind Lemon Grass Repellent

Numerous studies have confirmed the effectiveness of lemon grass oil as a natural mosquito repellent. For example, a study published in the Journal of Vector Ecology found that a 15% concentration of lemon grass oil provided up to 98.8% protection against Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, which are known carriers of dengue fever, yellow fever, and Zika virus. Another study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that lemon grass oil was more effective than DEET, a common chemical-based repellent, at repelling mosquitoes.

How to Use Lemon Grass Repellent

Lemon grass repellent can be used in a variety of ways, depending on your needs and preferences. Here are some of the most common methods:

Spray:

One of the easiest ways to use lemon grass repellent is to make a spray. To do this, mix 10-15 drops of lemon grass oil with 1 cup of water in a spray bottle. Shake well before using, and spray on your skin or clothing as needed.

Candles:

Another popular way to use lemon grass repellent is to burn candles made with lemon grass oil. These candles not only repel mosquitoes but also provide a pleasant aroma. You can either buy pre-made lemon grass candles or make your own by melting beeswax or soy wax and adding lemon grass oil.

Diffuser:

If you prefer not to apply the oil directly to your skin, you can use a diffuser instead. Simply add a few drops of lemon grass oil to a diffuser and let it run for several hours. This will help keep mosquitoes away from your living space.

Benefits of Lemon Grass Repellent

In addition to its mosquito-repelling properties, lemon grass repellent has many other benefits. Here are just a few:

Safe and Natural:

Unlike chemical-based repellents, lemon grass oil is safe and non-toxic. It's also a natural and sustainable resource, making it an eco-friendly choice.

Pleasant Aroma:

Lemon grass has a fresh and citrusy scent that many people find appealing. Using lemon grass repellent can help improve the smell of your home or outdoor area.

Anti-inflammatory Properties:

Lemon grass oil has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and pain caused by insect bites.

Antimicrobial Properties:

Lemon grass oil also has antimicrobial properties, which means it can help kill bacteria and other pathogens. This makes it a great choice for cleaning and disinfecting surfaces.

Tips for Using Lemon Grass Repellent

Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your lemon grass repellent:

Choose High-Quality Oil:

Make sure you're using high-quality lemon grass oil to get the best results. Look for pure essential oils that are free of additives or fillers.

Reapply as Needed:

Lemon grass repellent is not as long-lasting as chemical-based repellents, so you may need to reapply it more frequently. Keep an eye on how long it lasts for you and adjust accordingly.

Avoid Sensitive Areas:

Be careful when applying lemon grass oil to sensitive areas like the face or genitals. It can cause irritation or discomfort in these areas.

Store Properly:

Store your lemon grass oil in a cool, dark place to help preserve its potency. Avoid exposing it to heat or sunlight, which can cause it to degrade more quickly.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is lemon grass repellent safe for children?

Yes, lemon grass repellent is generally considered safe for children. However, it's always a good idea to do a patch test first to make sure they don't have any adverse reactions.

2. Can I use lemon grass oil on my pets?

While lemon grass oil is generally safe for pets, it's best to check with your veterinarian before using it on them. Some animals may be more sensitive to the oil than others.

3. How long does lemon grass repellent last?

The duration of lemon grass repellent varies depending on factors like temperature, humidity, and how much you sweat. Generally, it lasts for a few hours and needs to be reapplied periodically.

4. Can I use lemon grass oil as a cleaning agent?

Yes, lemon grass oil has antimicrobial properties and can be used as a natural cleaning agent. Mix it with water or vinegar to create a non-toxic disinfectant.

5. Does lemon grass repel other insects besides mosquitoes?

Yes, lemon grass oil has been shown to repel other insects like fleas, ticks, and ants. It may also be effective at repelling flies and gnats.


Lemon grass repellent is a safe, natural, and effective way to keep mosquitoes and other insects at bay. Whether you're looking to protect yourself and your family from mosquito-borne illnesses, or simply want a chemical-free alternative to traditional repellents, lemon grass oil is definitely worth considering. Just be sure to follow the tips and guidelines outlined in this article to get the most out of it.