Not everyone likes to put on mosquito spray before they head outdoors. Some types of sprays contain many chemicals that are harsh on the skin and even to the body. Luckily, there are many types of natural mosquito repellent, whether by spray, plants, or what you eat.
Plants as a Natural Mosquito Repellent
Certain herbs and garden plants are a natural mosquito repellent by what their leaves contain. Different types of lemon-scented herbs will keep mosquitoes away, simply because of the smell. Lemon basil and lemon grass can be planted on the edge of a garden or in pots on the deck. Marigolds are another “stinky” flower that mosquitoes will stay away from, so plant them at the edge of the garden or in pots around the deck. Citronella is also a natural mosquito repellant and the same ingredient used in candles that are lit to keep mosquitoes away from the yard.
How to Place Plants to Keep Mosquitoes Away
By being a savvy gardener, it is possible to plan a natural mosquito repellent garden or landscape. Placing a few plants around the deck where you often sit out at night, eat or grill can be a great way to eliminate the mosquitoes. Most of the plants are small enough that they can be planted in pots and moved around on the deck or patio, or out in the yard for your protection.
Sprays to Repel Mosquitoes Naturally
The plants that are natural mosquito repellents can be made into different sprays to go on the skin. When mixed with water and glycerin, the herbs are much safer on the skin than the chemicals in commercially sold cans and bottles. However, the natural mosquito repellent made from plants isn’t usually as strong or long-lasting so it is important to weigh the safety versus the practicality of the spray they use. Younger kids and babies might benefit from having a safer spray on their skin, but they may also have a worse reaction if a mosquito does bite them.
Lotions for Organic Mosquito Repellent
The same plants that can be mixed into a spray can be mixed into a lotion with various recipes also. The lotion is safer to put on, like the spray, because the natural mosquito repellent herb is not toxic to humans. A lotion can be made into a large batch and stored in an airtight canister to use through the spring and summer months. Apply the lotion liberally as it won’t be as strong as a commercial lotion would be if it were placed on the body.
Teas that will Organically Repel Mosquitoes
Some scientists argue that what you eat can also be a natural mosquito repellent. Since mosquitoes don’t like lemon basil, it can be made into a tea. If a person drinks the tea daily, then their body would naturally give off a lemon scent that would be offensive and keep the mosquitoes away. Use caution if you make a tea with herbs. Check that the herbs are safe for human consumption and that they don’t interfere with any type of medicine you may be taking.
No one likes to have mosquitoes buzzing around their ears or to scratch bites all day long. Having a natural mosquito repellent around, no matter what form, is a great way to enjoy pest-free summer days. Research the options to discover which method works best for you at keeping the bugs at bay this summer.
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I wiuld like to thank you for making this website it has helped me with me science fair project. I was wondering if you would please notify me if you get anymore information about mosquito repellents.