Female mosquitoes feed on blood to help their eggs develop
The Bad News: Sadly scientists have found no evidence that certain foods such as bananas or garlic will repel mosquitoes. In fact, the only food or beverage that affects mosquitoes is alcohol--which tends to attract them. The Good News: There are plenty of effective ways to avoid these blood-sucking insects. DEET-based repellents and a host of "natural" products will ward off mosquitoes. There are also several easy-to-follow steps that can help protect you.
Instructions
1. Throughout human history, the world's 2,700 species of mosquitoes have killed more people than all the wars combined. Mosquitoes transmit diseases such as West Nile Virus, various types of encephalitis and malaria. The truth is that claims about specific foods keeping mosquitoes at bay are little more than wishful thinking. Experts say the best protection against mosquitoes is avoidance. For example, consider staying inside at dusk and dawn, which is when mosquitoes are most active. When you are outside, wearing long sleeves, pants and a hat will limit the amount of bare skin where mosquitoes can bite you. Steer clear of areas of standing water where mosquitoes thrive.Also avoid items and activities that are known to attract mosquitoes. These include dark clothing, perspiration and floral or fruity fragrances.
2. Mosquito repellents with the synthetic chemical DEET are proven to be both safe and effective. These products are available as sprays, wipes, sticks, foams and lotions. Check labels to see how often these substances must be applied to the skin. Remember that the effectiveness of mosquito repellents can be diminished by many sunscreen products, rain, perspiration or swimming, skin absorption and evaporation from wind or high temperatures.
3. Oils derived from plants such as citronella, lemon grass, cinnamon, cloves and peppermint can also repel mosquitoes. But keep in mind that these "natural" products typically do not last as long as DEET-based repellents. Some people also believe that the consuming ample quantities of B1 vitamins will enable the body to produce an odor that keep mosquitoes away, but there is scant scientific data to support this claim.
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