by We can all agree that mosquitoes are one of the most annoying insects known mankind! In addition to sucking blood when they find you in pitch black darkness, they are also capable of biting through clothing as well.
While most people reach for sprays and other store-bought mosquito repellents, the truth is that they are packed with chemicals and toxins that cause more harm than good.
The good news is that there are many natural remedies that can repel mosquitoes effectively and naturally. Contrary to popular belief, going natural doesn’t necessarily mean that you are to give up repelling power!
The best thing regarding any home remedy is that it is available to everyone. But, the internet is full of misinformation that could tell you the opposite and lead you off target.
So, you might wonder what is that separates the remedies that really work from the ineffective ones. In fact, you should look no further than science- scientists are quite enthusiastic about one particular essential oil blend. Its heavenly smell is basically the key to having an all-natural mosquito repellent this summer!
Not only are mosquitoes extremely annoying, but they also carry deadly diseases like the Zika virus and malaria. Therefore, protecting against mosquito bites is protecting your health.
It has been scientifically shown that the blend of lemon and eucalyptus essential oils acts as potent mosquito repellent. It contains a compound that is far more effective than DEET, one of the most common and highly toxic insect repellents.
In fact, the researchers noted that DEET provided 84% protection in a 4-hour period, compared to the lemon-eucalyptus blend which provided 97% in the same time period!
Needless to say, preparing this mosquito repellent takes more than just dumping the oils into a spray bottle with water. But, although it requires a few extra ingredients, the preparation is super easy and simple!
Ingredients:
30 drops of lemon-eucalyptus essential oil blend 4 oz vodka, rubbing alcohol, or witch hazel 1 tsp. vanilla extract
Instructions:
Simply mix all the ingredients above in a spray bottle and use as needed. Note that the formula lasts for up to 4 hours, so make sure you re-apply it regularly.
In addition to the lemon eucalyptus blend which has been approved by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as an effective mosquito repellent; there are a few other natural options available. Check them out!
1. Lavender
Crush the lavender flowers and apply the oil onto the sensitive areas of the body, such as the arms or ankles. Another option is to pour a few drops on a clean cloth and rub in on the skin.
2. Cinnamon Oil
Mix 24 drops of oil for every 4 oz of water. Spray the solution on the skin or clothing, on plants, or around the home.
3. Thyme Oil
For a spray, mix 5 drops of thyme oil with 2 oz of water. For a homemade brew, mix 4 drops of the oil to every teaspoon of jojoba, olive, or other base oil of choice.
4. Greek Catnip Oil
It has been scientifically shown that Greek catnip oil repels mosquitoes for 2-3 hours. Additionally, scientists at Iowa State University found that it can work 10 times better than DEET.
5. Soybean Oil
The combination of soybean oil and lemongrass oil has been shown to repel different species of mosquitoes.
6. Tea Tree Oil
It has been shown that repellents containing tea tree oil are extremely effective against bush flies, biting midges, and mosquitoes.
