Natural Ways to Prevent Mosquitoes
The best natural method of mosquito prevention is limiting the things in your outdoor area that might attract them. The most important way to do this is to eliminate all sources of still water. You’ll often find it collecting in birdbaths, pools, buckets, playsets, and more. Make sure to inspect your yard for new standing water regularly. In addition, mosquitoes are weak fliers and don’t do well travelling in windy conditions. Turning on a fan when you are in your backyard is a reliable method of natural mosquito prevention.
Mosquito Repellents You Can Make at Home
Essential oils have many benefits outside of insect prevention, but do they also work as a natural mosquito repellent? It’s always important to dilute essential oils with carrier oils and perform a skin patch test to make sure that you have no adverse reactions to the mixture. Here’s what we know about these popular mosquito home remedies:
- Lemon eucalyptus oil. This oil is classified by the EPA and the CDC as a natural mosquito repellent. Keep in mind, though, that it has not been approved for use on kids younger than three years old.
- Peppermint oil. When blended with a carrier oil like olive or canola, peppermint can keep mosquitoes away via its fragrance.
- Catnip oil: Derived from catnip by a process of steam distillation, catnip oil is EPA-approved and is capable of affording you seven hours of mosquito protection.
- Lavender oil: Another pungent oil, studies have shown that lavender oil works to keep mosquitoes away.
Can Vitamin B and Coconut Oil Repel Mosquitoes?
Despite claims that taking vitamin B will build up mosquito immunities in your body over time, all reputable research shows that it does not have an effect on mosquito preference. Similar studies have been conducted concerning the effects of coconut oil. While found to be ineffective by itself, topical applications of coconut oil mixed with essential oils on the skin could work to repel mosquitoes. No matter what you try, always talk to your doctor before attempting to use any DIY mosquito repellents.
