Herbs That Repel Mosquitoes: Natural Ways to Keep Bugs at Bay

The Problem with Mosquitoes

If you've ever been camping or spent time outside during the summer months, you know how pesky mosquitoes can be. Not only do they leave itchy bites on your skin, but they can also carry diseases like malaria and West Nile virus. While there are plenty of chemical sprays and repellents available, many people are looking for more natural ways to keep these bugs at bay. Luckily, there are plenty of herbs that repel mosquitoes and other flying insects.

15 Herbs That Repel Mosquitoes

Here are 15 herbs that have been shown to repel mosquitoes:

1. Citronella

Citronella is one of the most well-known mosquito-repelling herbs. It's often used in candles and outdoor sprays, but you can also plant citronella grass in your yard. The scent of citronella masks the scents that attract mosquitoes, making it harder for them to find you.

2. Lemon Balm

Lemon balm, also known as Melissa officinalis, has a strong lemon scent that mosquitoes don't like. You can crush the leaves and rub them on your skin, or make a tea out of them to drink.

3. Lavender

Lavender not only smells great, but it also repels mosquitoes. You can plant lavender in your garden or use lavender essential oil in a diffuser or spray.

4. Peppermint

Peppermint is a natural insect repellent that's safe for humans and pets. You can use peppermint essential oil in a spray or rub crushed peppermint leaves on your skin.

5. Catnip

Catnip contains a chemical called nepetalactone, which is a natural insect repellent. You can grow catnip in your garden or crush the leaves and rub them on your skin.

6. Basil

Basil has a strong scent that repels mosquitoes. You can plant basil in your garden or crush the leaves and rub them on your skin.

7. Rosemary

Rosemary is another herb that mosquitoes don't like. You can plant rosemary in your garden or use rosemary essential oil in a diffuser or spray.

8. Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus has a strong scent that mosquitoes find unpleasant. You can use eucalyptus essential oil in a spray or rub crushed eucalyptus leaves on your skin.

9. Lemongrass

Lemongrass contains citronella, which is a natural mosquito repellent. You can plant lemongrass in your garden or use lemongrass essential oil in a spray.

10. Thyme

Thyme has a strong scent that repels mosquitoes. You can plant thyme in your garden or use thyme essential oil in a diffuser or spray.

11. Sage

Sage is another herb that mosquitoes don't like. You can plant sage in your garden or use sage essential oil in a diffuser or spray.

12. Garlic

Garlic contains compounds that repel mosquitoes. You can eat garlic or crush garlic cloves and rub them on your skin.

13. Marigold

Marigolds contain pyrethrum, which is a natural insecticide. You can plant marigolds in your garden to repel mosquitoes and other insects.

14. Chrysanthemum

Chrysanthemums also contain pyrethrum, making them a natural insect repellent. You can plant chrysanthemums in your garden or use chrysanthemum essential oil in a spray.

15. Mint

Mint has a strong scent that repels mosquitoes. You can plant mint in your garden or use mint essential oil in a diffuser or spray.

How to Use Herbs That Repel Mosquitoes

There are several ways to use herbs that repel mosquitoes:

1. Plant them in your garden

Planting mosquito-repelling herbs in your garden is a great way to keep bugs at bay. You can plant them in pots or directly in the ground.

2. Make a spray

You can make a mosquito-repelling spray by combining essential oils with water or witch hazel. Spray the mixture on your skin or around your campsite.

3. Crush the leaves

Crushing the leaves of mosquito-repelling herbs releases their natural oils, which can help keep bugs away. Rub the crushed leaves on your skin or place them in a sachet.

4. Burn candles

Mosquito-repelling candles are a popular option for outdoor gatherings. Look for candles made with citronella, lemongrass, or other mosquito-repelling herbs.

Precautions When Using Herbs That Repel Mosquitoes

While herbs are a natural way to repel mosquitoes, it's important to use them safely. Here are a few precautions to keep in mind:

1. Check for allergies

Before using any new herb, it's a good idea to check for allergies. Apply a small amount of the herb to your skin and wait 24 hours to see if you have a reaction.

2. Dilute essential oils

Essential oils are very concentrated and can cause skin irritation if used at full strength. Always dilute essential oils with a carrier oil or water before using them on your skin.

3. Keep away from children and pets

Some herbs can be toxic to pets and children. Keep all herbs and essential oils out of reach of children and pets.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do herbs really work to repel mosquitoes?

Yes, many herbs contain compounds that are known to repel mosquitoes and other insects.

2. Are herbs safer than chemical insect repellents?

Herbs are generally considered safer than chemical insect repellents, but it's still important to use them responsibly and follow precautions.

3. Can I use herbs to repel ticks?

While some herbs may repel ticks, it's generally recommended to use a tick-specific repellent when spending time in tick-prone areas.

4. Can I eat herbs that repel mosquitoes?

Yes, many mosquito-repelling herbs are also edible and can be used in cooking.

5. How long do mosquito-repelling herbs last?

The effectiveness of mosquito-repelling herbs can vary depending on the herb and how it's used. You may need to reapply oils or sprays every few hours.