Chat with 
Chat with
Summer is here, and with it comes the promise of sunshine, ice cream and cool drinks. But along with these joys of summer, come some not-so-welcome guests: mosquitoes! These pesky little creatures can quickly turn a perfect day outside into an itchy and scratchy nightmare. But fear not, as we have compiled a list of natural mosquito repellents and preventive measures to help you enjoy your summer mosquito-free. Let us find out how to prevent mosquito bites naturally at home.
Summer is a time for outdoor activities and fun in the sun, but it is also the time when mosquitoes are at their most active. Mosquitoes are not only a nuisance, they also carry diseases such as dengue fever, malaria and the Zika virus. Preventing mosquito bites is essential to avoid the risk of contracting these diseases.
Essential oils such as citronella, eucalyptus, peppermint, and lavender contain compounds that repel mosquitoes naturally. One study published in the Journal of the American Mosquito Control Association found that citronella oil was as effective as DEET in repelling mosquitoes for up to two hours.
Garlic contains compounds such as allicin that are released through the skin, making it difficult for mosquitoes to detect you. While there is limited research on the effectiveness of garlic as a mosquito repellent, a study published in the Journal of Vector Ecology found that garlic oil was effective in repelling mosquitoes for up to eight hours.
Neem oil is a natural insecticide and repellent. A study published in the Journal of the American Mosquito Control Association found that neem oil was effective in repelling mosquitoes for up to 12 hours.
Apple cider vinegar contains acetic acid, which has been shown to repel mosquitoes. Mix equal parts of apple cider vinegar and water and apply it to your skin and you will notice less mosquitoes landing on your skin.
Tea tree oil contains compounds such as terpinen-4-ol that repel mosquitoes. A study published in the Journal of the American Mosquito Control Association found that a combination of tea tree oil and lavender oil was effective in repelling mosquitoes.
Rubbing citrus fruits such as lemon or lime on your skin can repel mosquitoes. The strong scent of citrus fruits such as lemon or lime can mask the scent of your skin, making it difficult for mosquitoes to detect you.
Basil or tulsi contains compounds such as eugenol that repel mosquitoes. A study published in the Journal of the American Mosquito Control Association found that basil oil was effective in repelling mosquitoes for up to two hours.
Also read: Using mosquito repellents to keep the bugs away? It can have these side effects on your skin
It is important to keep in mind that their effectiveness may vary depending on factors such as the concentration of the active ingredients, the method of application, and individual variations in body chemistry. So, it is important to follow some preventive measures.
1. Use mosquito repellents as they are one of the most effective ways to prevent mosquito bites.
2. Wearing long-sleeved shirts, pants and socks can help prevent mosquito bites. Mosquitoes are attracted to dark colours, so wear light-colored clothing to make yourself less attractive to mosquitoes.
3. When camping or sleeping outside, use mosquito nets to prevent mosquito bites.
4. Mosquitoes breed in standing water, so get rid of any standing water around your home.
5. Make sure that all of your windows and doors have screens to prevent mosquitoes from entering your home.
6. Mosquitoes are most active during dawn and dusk, so try to avoid being outside during these times.
7. Mosquitoes are weak fliers, so using fans can help keep mosquitoes away from you.
Also read: Burning mosquito coils can kill you. YES, it’s true
Give these methods a try to prevent mosquito bites. Stay safe and enjoy your summer season!
Get latest updates on health and wellness along with How To
