Mosquito bites can transfer harmful diseases.
Mosquitoes are more than a nuisance during pool parties and barbecues. Several species of these biting insects can transmit dangerous diseases to humans and animals. Sustainable solutions to repelling mosquitoes have become viable options since chemical mosquito repellents are not assumed harmless over long periods of time. A number of common perennial herbs are surprisingly safe, effective and delicious while deterring mosquitoes. Does this Spark an idea?
Catnip is not Just for Cats
Cats love catnip.
Catnip is named for its fame of being a stimulating cat indulgence. Part of the mint family, catnip grows wild in many places. A 2001 study at Iowa State University proved that catnip is 10 times more effective at repelling mosquitoes than the potentially dangerous chemical DEET. According to researchers Joel Coats and Chris Peterson, nepetalactone, the oil that gives catnip its odor, repelled 39 to 59 percent of tested mosquitoes. Drape catnip in hanging baskets to avoid attracting unwanted cats.
Rosemary
Rosemary blooms attractive flowers.
The same rosemary used as a culinary herb and fragrant essential oil sends mosquitoes flying in the opposite direction. There is just something about rosemary that these biting pests would rather avoid. Rosemary is attractive in containers lining decks and patios while they do double duty reducing mosquito bites. The essential oil is safe to rub on skin. In the winter and spring, rosemary blooms pretty light blue flowers.
Lemon Grass
Lemon grass is tasty in many recipes.
A popular herbal addition in Thai and other Asian dishes, lemon grass gets its name from the lemony scent it emits that mosquitoes apparently find offensive. The oil from lemon grass will repel cats and dogs, as well as mosquitoes. Lemon grass oil is nontoxic on skin. Full sun and soil with excellent drainage keep this tropical grass happy. Lemon grass is perennial only in the warmest climates of United States zones 9 and 10.
Lavender
Mosquitoes cannot stand the smell of lavender.
Lavender is more than just a lovely, fragrant bush. Fewer mosquitoes will swarm yards full of lavender plants because it seems they do not like the smell. Lavender oil is highly effective in repelling mosquitoes, and it is safe for external use. Drop the oil on cotton balls and carry them around or place plants in areas mosquitoes frequent. Sachets stuffed with dry lavender leaves keep insects out of the house. Lavender is a handsome herb that grows 1 to 2 feet tall and sports purple flowers every July to November.
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