Mosquitoes are a common warm-weather annoyance, capable of delivering itchy bites and, in some regions, transmitting diseases. While many commercial repellents exist, there is growing interest in natural, scent-based methods to deter these insects. Understanding which scents mosquitoes dislike can provide alternative approaches for protection.
Natural Scents That Deter Mosquitoes
Several plant-derived scents repel mosquitoes, offering a natural alternative. Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) is notable; the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) approves it as an effective repellent. A 32% OLE mixture provides over 95% protection for approximately three hours, due to its active compound, para-menthane-3,8-diol (PMD).
Citronella, derived from lemongrass, is a widely recognized natural repellent, often incorporated into candles and sprays, offering protection for up to two hours. Lavender, with its sweet floral fragrance, also acts as a deterrent. Studies indicate lavender essential oil can provide an 80% repellent rate for as long as eight hours, partly due to compounds like linalool.
Peppermint oil, known for its strong, minty aroma, can mask human scents that attract mosquitoes, offering protection for up to two and a half hours. Catnip, a member of the mint family, contains a compound called nepetalactone, which has proven highly effective at repelling mosquitoes, with some studies suggesting it can be as potent as synthetic repellents. Rosemary, a common culinary herb, also possesses mosquito-repelling properties; its essential oil provides significant protection for several hours in concentrated forms.
How These Scents Work
Natural scents interfere with a mosquito’s highly developed olfactory system. Mosquitoes locate hosts by detecting cues like carbon dioxide, lactic acid, and human body odors. Plant-derived repellents work primarily by masking these attractive odors or by directly irritating the mosquito’s sensory receptors.
When volatile molecules from these plant oils are released into the air, they create a protective barrier. This sensory overload makes it difficult for mosquitoes to accurately pinpoint their human targets. For instance, the active ingredient in catnip, nepetalactone, specifically activates the insect’s TRPA1 irritant receptor, creating an unpleasant sensation that prompts them to avoid the area.
Practical Ways to Use Repellent Scents
Natural scents can be incorporated into mosquito deterrence strategies. Essential oils can be diffused indoors or in covered outdoor spaces, dispersing aromatic compounds into the air to create a scented zone.
For personal application, dilute essential oils with carrier oils such as jojoba, almond, or coconut oil, or with witch hazel or distilled water, to create topical sprays. Apply these homemade sprays to exposed skin or clothing; shake the mixture well before each use.
Planting specific herbs known for their repellent properties, such as lavender, peppermint, or rosemary, in gardens or in pots near outdoor seating areas can also contribute to deterrence. While the plants themselves provide some benefit, crushing their leaves and rubbing them on the skin can release more potent repelling compounds. Additionally, candles or incense infused with citronella, lemongrass, or rosemary essential oils can be lit outdoors to create a localized repellent effect. Burning dried rosemary sprigs in an outdoor fire pit is another way to release mosquito-deterring aromas.
Key Considerations for Scent-Based Repellents
When using natural scent-based repellents, it is important to understand their duration and efficacy. Many natural oils are volatile, meaning they evaporate quickly, necessitating more frequent reapplication compared to synthetic repellents like DEET. While some natural repellents may offer only an hour or two of protection, Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus (OLE) is an exception, providing comparable protection to DEET for several hours.
Proper dilution of essential oils is crucial for safety; undiluted oils can cause irritation or allergic reactions in some individuals. It is advisable to perform a patch test on a small area of skin before widespread application. Distinguish between essential oils and processed extracts; for example, “lemon eucalyptus essential oil” is not the same as “Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus (OLE).” OLE contains a higher concentration of the active repellent compound PMD and is the only plant-based repellent recommended by the CDC for areas with mosquito-borne diseases.