Lemongrass is a tropical plant that contains an oil similar to that found in lemon peel.
The results of a 2004 California State Science Fair project show that lemongrass is 30 percent less effective than commercial preparations containing DEET, or diethylmetatoluamide, in repelling mosquitoes. Lemongrass, or cymbopogon ciatrus, may still be a suitable substitute for persons who cannot tolerate DEET. Does this Spark an idea?
Background
Lemongrass is a tall plant native to the tropics. The stalks contain the same type of oil that is found in lemon peel and has a similar scent. This oil is commonly known as the basic ingredient found in citronella candles, according to the Epicentre Encyclopedia of Spices.
Considerations
Drugs.com reports that lemongrass was tested in experiments involving adult mosquitoes using different levels of the oil in paraffin. While other tests have been done on lemongrass, Drugs.com adds that clinical data on its usefulness as an insect repellent are still incomplete.
Organic Alternative
Organic Impact suggests growing your own lemongrass and making an extract from it that you can spray on your skin. An easy way to extract the oil from the plants is to cut the lemongrass into small pieces and soak it in water for a few hours, using 2 cups water for every cup of lemongrass.
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