Will Citronella Repel Flies? The Truth Revealed

The Buzz About Citronella

Flies are one of the most common pests that can invade our homes, gardens, patios, and campsites. They are not only annoying but can also transmit diseases. This is why people look for ways to repel them, and one of the most popular natural remedies is citronella.

Citronella is a type of plant that belongs to the lemongrass family. It has a strong, lemony scent that is known to repel insects, including mosquitoes and flies. It is often used in candles, sprays, lotions, and other products marketed as insect repellents.

But the question is, does citronella really work against flies? In this article, we will explore the truth behind this buzz and discover the science behind citronella as a fly repellent.

The Science Behind Citronella

Citronella oil contains several compounds that have been found to have insect-repelling properties. One of these compounds is citronellal, which gives citronella its characteristic scent. Citronellal works by disrupting the nervous system of insects, making it difficult for them to find their target.

Another compound in citronella is geraniol, which has been found to repel various insects, including flies, mosquitoes, and ticks. Geraniol works by interfering with the receptors in insects' antennae, which they use to locate food and mates.

However, the effectiveness of citronella as a fly repellent depends on several factors, such as concentration, formulation, and application method. Let's take a closer look at these factors.

The Factors That Affect Citronella's Effectiveness

Concentration

The concentration of citronella in a product determines how effective it is in repelling flies. Generally, the higher the concentration, the more effective the product will be.

According to a study published in the Journal of Insect Science, a citronella-based spray with a concentration of 10% was able to repel up to 70% of houseflies for up to two hours. However, a lower concentration (2%) was only able to repel 30% of flies for the same duration.

Formulation

The formulation of citronella products also affects their effectiveness. For example, citronella candles may not be as effective as sprays or lotions because the scent dissipates quickly in open spaces.

On the other hand, some studies have found that citronella-based sprays are more effective than DEET-based products in repelling flies and mosquitoes. This is because DEET works by blocking the receptors in insects' antennae, whereas citronella disrupts their nervous system.

Application Method

The way you apply citronella products can also affect their effectiveness. For example, if you're using a spray, make sure to apply it evenly on exposed skin and clothing. If you're using a candle, make sure to place it near you or in an enclosed space to maximize its effectiveness.

Other Natural Remedies For Repelling Flies

Citronella is not the only natural remedy for repelling flies. There are several other options that you can try, such as:

Lavender

Lavender is a fragrant plant that is known to repel flies, mosquitoes, and other insects. You can plant it in your garden or use lavender oil in a diffuser or spray.

Basil

Basil is another herb that has insect-repelling properties. You can plant it in your garden or use basil oil in a spray.

Mint

Mint is a refreshing herb that can also repel flies and other insects. You can plant it in your garden or use mint oil in a diffuser or spray.

How To Make Your Own Citronella Spray

If you're interested in making your own citronella spray, here's a simple recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup distilled water
• 1 cup witch hazel or vodka
• 20 drops citronella essential oil

Instructions:

1. Mix all the ingredients in a spray bottle.
2. Shake well before use.
3. Spray on exposed skin and clothing.

The Bottom Line

Citronella does work as a fly repellent, but its effectiveness depends on several factors, such as concentration, formulation, and application method. Other natural remedies, such as lavender, basil, and mint, can also be effective in repelling flies.

FAQs

Q: Is citronella safe to use?

A: Yes, citronella is generally safe to use. However, some people may experience skin irritation or allergic reactions to it. It's important to do a patch test before using any new product.

Q: Can citronella candles attract flies?

A: No, citronella candles do not attract flies. In fact, they repel them by masking the scent of carbon dioxide that humans exhale, which attracts flies.

Q: How long does citronella last?

A: The effectiveness of citronella can vary depending on the product and concentration. Generally, it lasts for a few hours and needs to be reapplied every 2-3 hours.

Q: Can citronella repel all types of flies?

A: Citronella has been found to repel some types of flies, such as houseflies and stable flies. However, it may not be effective against all types of flies.

Q: Can pregnant women use citronella?

A: Pregnant women should consult their healthcare provider before using any insect repellent, including citronella.