Whether during a simple family hike, a picnic, or a barbecue on the terrace, mosquitoes are lurking. Bad news: you’re on the menu! And these biting insects know how to spoil the party like no other… So, you have to find effective strategies to get rid of them. Needless to say, using chemical insecticide mosquito repellents with unpleasant and harmful chemicals for your family, or bracelets that serve no purpose, is out of the question! As for diffusers or sprays, it’s the same thing, and they smell terribly bad, so no thanks… Fortunately, the aromatherapy route is very effective against this insect that can sometimes carry diseases (dengue, malaria, chikungunya). In skin repellents (diluted in vegetable oil) or in diffusion, they are unbeatable anti-insects and safe if used correctly! Here are the best essential oils to repel mosquitoes!
Note that essential oils cannot be applied to pregnant or breastfeeding women and very young children.
1) Among all essential oils against mosquitoes, impossible not to mention Java citronella!
Citronella is a classic in the fight against mosquitoes, even if its repellent effectiveness is relative. However, citronella essential oil contains excellent repellent molecules. For example, Java citronella contains 40% citronellal and more than 20% geraniol, components that act on the nervous system of mosquitoes to keep them away. And add a particularly lemony scent that these little flying biting insects particularly detest as a complement! So, a few drops can be diffused for 30 minutes or placed on candles to facilitate diffusion in the room if you don’t have a diffuser. Also, you can apply it on the skin for 3 to 4 hours of protection on exposed skin areas or on clothing. Use 1 drop for every 4 of vegetable oil (not suitable for children under 3). Finally, use this soothing essential oil with anti-inflammatory properties to relieve pain and itching related to insect bites.
2) Lemon eucalyptus essential oil, one of the best essential oils against mosquitoes
If it shines in its effectiveness, it’s thanks to its higher citronellal content than citronella oil. Hence its ultra-powerful repellent power! It’s also a soothing anti-inflammatory product that easily relieves itching. It’s loved both for diffusion and local application on the skin in good dilution with vegetable oil. To diffuse it, you can add a few drops to water (or better: repellent white vinegar). Otherwise, always keep a cloth soaked with a few drops on you or in the sleeping bag if you’re camping. Also, you can add a few drops to your shower gel or body cream. In any case, do not use it on children under three years old.
Good to know: citronellal is also found in organic combava essential oil (about 77% of its composition). This island citrus fruit acts as a natural repellent and destroys insect larvae.
3) Rose geranium, another excellent choice oil
Looking for an excellent plant to hang on your window for mosquito-free nights? Head to the gorgeous geranium! With a high dose of geraniol, a molecule with notable repellent properties, there’s nothing better to repel mosquitoes and combat bites. Additionally, rose geranium essential oil helps in skin healing and relieves itching. Don’t worry about its flowery and fruity scent! Very pleasant for humans, it remains very disturbing for many biting insects.
4) Lavender essential oil… of course!
In case of an invasion, a drop of lavender essential oil (lavandula angustifolia) can save the day. Combining linalyl acetate and linalool, it’s perfect for those looking for a radical solution to repel the invasion. It’s a great choice to keep flies and ants away in addition to mosquitoes. In addition to a repellent effect when applied to sensitive or non-sensitive skin, it’s also analgesic and soothing on itching.
5) Peppermint essential oil, the latest of these notable anti-mosquito essential oils
It’s not usually the first oil that comes to mind. However, it can indeed help you avoid some bites as well as instantly soothe the inflammation that itches. Its cool effect due to its menthol will have this effect and many others. For example, by diluting a drop in aloe vera, you can effectively refresh your skin. This will help relieve the heat while making you less attractive to these little creatures. In addition, some authors believe it would help the body to release less CO2. Mosquitoes are attracted to this molecule. This is why pregnant women are more targeted by them in summer (they emit more CO2).
Other tips in addition to essential oils against mosquitoes
To repel mosquitoes and protect yourself naturally without resorting to essential oils, you can implement several methods and practices.
Use repellent plants that essential oils against mosquitoes are derived from
Some plants can indeed repel mosquitoes. All the essential oils mentioned earlier come from plants that are also natural repellents. You can plant them around your house or use them indoors. However, others are also very effective. So, think about planting the right plants in your garden. For example, basil, another very popular herb, is a recognized
