Mosquito Repellent: 5 Flowers and Herbs to Keep Pests Away
Mosquitoes are not only annoying pests, but they can also be carriers of diseases such as malaria, dengue, and Zika virus. While there are many commercial mosquito repellents available in the market, some people prefer using natural and chemical-free alternatives to keep these pests at bay.
Rosemary
Rosemary is not only a popular culinary herb, but it is also known for its mosquito-repelling properties. Its strong scent can mask the smell of carbon dioxide and lactic acid, which are attractive to mosquitoes. You can plant rosemary in pots or in your garden to keep mosquitoes away.
Lavender
Lavender is a fragrant herb that is loved for its calming properties as well as its ability to repel mosquitoes. You can crush its flowers and apply the oil on your skin or use lavender-scented candles or sprays to keep mosquitoes at bay. Planting lavender in your garden can also deter mosquitoes from entering your outdoor space.
Citronella
Citronella is a well-known mosquito repellent that is commonly found in candles, sprays, and lotions. Its strong scent masks the smell of humans, making it difficult for mosquitoes to locate their targets. You can also plant citronella grass in your garden or in pots to create a natural barrier against mosquitoes.
Marigold
Marigolds are not only beautiful flowers but they are also effective in repelling mosquitoes. Their strong scent deters mosquitoes from entering your garden or outdoor space. You can plant marigolds in pots or create a border around your outdoor area to keep mosquitoes away.
Peppermint
Peppermint is a versatile herb that is known for its cooling properties as well as its ability to repel mosquitoes. You can crush its leaves and rub them on your skin, or use peppermint oil in a diffuser to keep mosquitoes away. Planting peppermint in your garden can also help in deterring mosquitoes.
Conclusion
Using flowers and herbs to repel mosquitoes is not only effective but also a natural and chemical-free way to keep these pests away. By incorporating plants such as rosemary, lavender, citronella, marigold, and peppermint in your garden or outdoor space, you can create a mosquito-free environment while enjoying the beauty and fragrance of these plants.
FAQs
Q: Can these flowers and herbs be used indoors to repel mosquitoes?
A: Yes, you can use these flowers and herbs indoors in the form of essential oils, candles, or sprays to repel mosquitoes.
Q: Do these flowers and herbs have any side effects?
A: These flowers and herbs are generally safe to use, but it is always recommended to do a patch test before applying them on your skin to check for any allergic reactions.
Q: How often do I need to replace or reapply these flowers and herbs to keep mosquitoes away?
A: For the best results, you may need to replant or refresh these flowers and herbs every few weeks to ensure their effectiveness in repelling mosquitoes.
