Growing certain types of plants can help you to naturally deter mosquitoes.
Mosquitoes can be a problem when spending time outdoors. Combine the potential for bites that itch with the health risks that are associated with them and the importance of mosquito repellent becomes obvious. Unfortunately, many of the commercial products include chemicals, such as DEET, and are not ideal for people who prefer more natural solutions. However, certain plants can act as deterrents against blood-sucking mosquitoes to keep you safe and itch-free. Does this Spark an idea?
Mosquito Plant
The mosquito plant, or citrosa geranium, is a combination of geraniums and citronella grass. Both geraniums and citronella grass are believed to repel biting insects such as mosquitoes. However, according to a plant fragrance specialist at Delaware State College in Dover, the mosquito plant only contains approximately 0.09 percent citronellal, which is one of the main components of citronella oil. In addition, while the potted plant has little to no effect on repelling mosquitoes, in its crushed form it has approximately 40 percent of the repellent ability of DEET.
Lemon Balm
Lemon balm is a herb from the mint family that shares a similar appearance. Certain forms of lemon balm are useful in repelling mosquitoes due to the high concentrations of citronellal. In Mother Earth News, Delaware State University ethnobotonist Arthur Tucker states that lemon balm may contain up to 38 percent citronellal. Lemon balm is most effective when the leaves are crushed and rubbed over the surface of your skin.
Cat nip
Catnip is a perennial herb that is most often thought of as a stimulant for cats. It is, however, also useful for repelling mosquitoes. This is due to the essential oil that's found in the catnip called nepetalactone. Nepetalactone is 10 times more effective than the chemical DEET in keeping mosquitoes away, according to members of an Iowa State University research group.
Lemon Thyme
Lemon thyme, also known as mosquito repellent thyme, is a perennial herb that is thought to repel mosquitoes due to its strong lemon scent and high concentration of citronella oil. While the potted plant has limited efficacy, according to Iowa State University, rubbing the crushed leaves on your skin has 62 percent of the protection that is provided by products that use the chemical DEET.
Rose Geraniums
Rose geraniums are an effective deterrent against mosquitoes. The plant contains both citronellal and geranol oil. While the potted plants may work somewhat at keeping the biting insect away, it works best when crushed and rubbed over your skin as a deterrent.
Tags: repelling mosquitoes, State University, your skin, approximately percent, chemical DEET, citronella grass, crushed rubbed