Mosquito-Free Monsoons: 7 Natural Repellents You Can Make At Home (Image Credits: iStock)
Though monsoon brings a respite from extreme heat, it also brings a threat of mosquito-borne diseases. During the rainy season, they get an adequate atmosphere where they can breed and spread diseases like malaria, dengue, chikungunya and Zika virus. While commercial mosquito repellents are widely available, they often contain harmful chemicals that can be harmful to your skin. So what should you do to save yourself from mosquitoes? As per research, these are some natural mosquito repellents that are both effective and easy to prepare using common kitchen ingredients. Let’s check the list!
Lemon Eucalyptus Oil Spray
Lemon eucalyptus oil is one of the most effective natural mosquito repellents. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has listed it as an effective ingredient in mosquito repellent. The oil contains a compound called citronellal, which has strong mosquito-repelling properties.
Ingredients:
– 10 drops of lemon eucalyptus oil
– 1 tablespoon of witch hazel
– 1 tablespoon of sunflower oil
Instructions:
– Mix the lemon eucalyptus oil with witch hazel and sunflower oil.
– Pour the mixture into a spray bottle.
– Shake well before use and apply it to exposed skin.
Lavender Oil Spray
Lavender not only smells great but also effectively repels mosquitoes. Its fragrance is offensive to mosquitoes and other insects. Lavender also has antifungal and antiseptic qualities that make it great for soothing the skin.
Ingredients:
– 10 drops of lavender essential oil
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil (like olive oil or coconut oil)
Instructions:
– Combine the lavender essential oil with the vegetable oil.
– Apply the mixture to your skin, especially on exposed areas.
Peppermint Oil Spray
Peppermint oil is known for its strong, fresh scent that mosquitoes dislike. It’s also cooling and refreshing, making it a great choice for hot summer days.
Ingredients:
– 10 drops of peppermint essential oil
– 1 tablespoon of vodka
– 1 cup of water
Instructions:
– Mix the peppermint oil with vodka and water.
– Pour the solution into a spray bottle.
– Shake well and spray it on your skin and clothes.
Basil Leaves Spray
Basil leaves contain certain oils that can effectively repel mosquitoes. The oils, especially eugenol, give off a scent that mosquitoes find unappealing.
Ingredients:
– A handful of fresh basil leaves
– 1 cup of water
– 1/2 cup of vodka
Instructions:
– Boil the basil leaves in water for about 20 minutes.
– Remove from heat and let it cool.
– Strain the mixture and add vodka.
– Pour the solution into a spray bottle and apply it as needed.
Garlic Spray
Garlic has several compounds that are effective in repelling mosquitoes. Its strong odour is unappealing to mosquitoes and other insects.
Ingredients:
– 4 cloves of garlic
– 1 cup of water
Instructions:
– Crush the garlic cloves and boil them in water.
– Let it cool and strain the mixture.
– Pour the garlic-infused water into a spray bottle.
– Spray it around your living areas to keep mosquitoes at bay.
Apple Cider Vinegar Spray
Apple cider vinegar can be used as a natural mosquito repellent. Its strong scent masks the natural odours that attract mosquitoes, keeping them away.
Ingredients:
– 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup of water
– 10 drops of essential oil (e.g., eucalyptus, peppermint, or lavender)
Instructions:
– Mix apple cider vinegar, water, and essential oil.
– Pour the mixture into a spray bottle.
– Shake well and apply it to your skin or around your home.
Cinnamon Oil Spray
Cinnamon oil can kill mosquito larvae and repel adult mosquitoes. It has a pleasant scent and can be used in various forms.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon oil
– 1 cup of water
Instructions:
– Mix the cinnamon oil with water.
– Pour the solution into a spray bottle.
– Shake well before each use and spray it on your skin or around mosquito-prone areas.
