Essential oils have been used for centuries and they have a myriad of uses. One of these is their potential to repel mosquitoes.
When we spend much time outdoors, we become victims of these flying pests, which leave itchy bites and can transmit disease.
However, essential oils are excellent in keeping mosquitoes away and thus prevent these issues. Yet, you should learn which ones to use and how to combine them in order to get the best effects.
These are the best carrier oils for the mosquito-repelling essential oils:
- Olive oil
- Sunflower oil
- Witch hazel
- Vodka
You should always read the instructions on the bottle of the oil to learn how to properly dilute it in order to ensure it is safe for use.
- Cinnamon Oil
Cinnamon essential oil quickly destroys mosquito eggs and thus reduces the number of mosquitoes. Mix 4 ounces of water and 24 drops of this oil in a spray bottle, and spray on upholstery , clothes, as w plants and patio furniture.
- Lemon Eucalyptus Oil
Lemon eucalyptus oil has been used as a mosquito repellent since the 1940s, and it has been confirmed to be effective by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
According to a study published in the Journal of the American Mosquito Control Association, a 32 percent lemon eucalyptus essential oil ensures up to 3 hours of mosquito protection and stops about 95 percent of mosquitoes from biting.
All you need to do is to add one part of this essential oil to 10 parts of some carrier oil, preferably witch hazel or sunflower oil. Note that this mixture is not suitable for use in the case of children three years of age and younger.
- Thyme Oil
The Journal of the American Mosquito Control Association published a study that analyzed the way this essential oil works to protect hairless mice against mosquitoes.
Apparently, researchers found that it offers 91 percent protection. You should mix a teaspoon of either jojoba oil or olive oil with 4 drops of thyme oil and spray to keep mosquitoes away.
Also, you can add 5 drops of it to 2 ounces of water in a spray bottle and prepare a natural repellent.
- Lavender
Mosquitoes hate the smell of lavender, but apart from this, this essential oil can actually soothe mosquito bites.
You should dilute it as written on the bottle, and then dab some of it on the ankles and wrists to keep mosquitoes at bay. It is a wise idea to plant some lavender plants in your garden, which will protect you from these pests.
- Greek Catnip Oil
This essential oil is a member of the mint family, and a study published in Parasitology Research confirmed its strong mosquito repelling properties.
A single application will protect you from mosquitoes for approximately two to three hours. Additionally, another research study conducted at Iowa State University, which compared this essential oil to DEET, found that it is even 10 times more effective at repelling mosquitoes.
- Soybean Oil
A 2% soybean oil is excellent in the fight against mosquitoes, and due to this property, it is used as a primary ingredient in numerous commercial mosquito repellents. You can add some lemongrass oil to enrich its fragrance.
We suggest the following ultimate essential oil natural mosquito repellent:
Ingredients
- 30 drops of lemon eucalyptus essential oil blend
- 4 ounces witch hazel, rubbing alcohol, or vodka
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Ingredients:
In a small bowl, mix these ingredients and pour the mixture into a spray bottle. Then, spray before going outside, especially around water, and during mosquito hours, early in the morning.
Therefore, essential oils can be your potent ally against mosquitoes and the itchy, annoying bits they leave behind. Yet, always make sure you dilute the oil properly and do a small patch test to ensure it is safe and won’t cause any irritations, or allergies.