Tell Mosquitoes to Buzz Off, Naturally

Warm weather is finally here and that means one thing: Mosquitoes and other biting insects are ready to swarm. The iching bumps that result from an attack are as much a part of the season as a sun tan or barbeque but, depending on where you live, mosquito bites can be more than just a summer annoyance. Malaria, yellow fever, and West Nile virus are all spread by mosquitoes. Preventing a bite from these insects is clearly important, but who wants to use DEET based repellents known to be harmful to both the environment and our health?

Fortunately, there are some natural alternatives to hash, chemical insect repellents. The first step is to avoid attracting mosquitoes in the first place. Mosquitoes are drawn to the following things:

• Dark Clothing: Dressing in light colors keeps you cool, seasonally stylish, and unappetizing-looking to mosquitoes.


• Carbon Dioxide: Keep track of your carbon aura to avoid mosquito bites. Exercise and sitting in the heat cause you to emit elevated levels of CO2. Candles and other open flames also give off CO2.


• Fragrances: Your summer crush isn't the only one that likes the smell of your fruity perfume or heavy cologne. Mosquitoes are drawn to these scents, especially fruity and floral ones.


• Skin Temperature: Fortunately, mosquitoes favor cool skin. We don't have much of that when we're lounging outside in the summer.


• Moisture: Unfortunately, they also like moist skin and sweat.

Keeping these attractors in mind, there are also several things you can experiment with to repel mosquitoes. Usually, natural insect repellents use the essential oils from plants as a base. Common plant oils include:

• Citronella Oil
• Lemon Eucalyptus Oil
• Cinnamon Oil
• Rosemary Oil
• Peppermint Oil
• Clove Oil

Any of these plants can be used simply by crushing them and rubbing the oil on key areas like behind the ears and knees, inside the elbows, and on the ankles. If your skin is sensitive to the oils, try crushing a large handful of the plant inside a cloth then tying it around your neck.

Or, try this easy recipe:

Easy Natural Insect Repellent

1. Take a large handful of a couple kinds of the plants listed above (different mosquitoes are repelled by different plants, so it's best to use a mixture).


2. Place the plants in a food processor and chop them well.


3. Carefully add two cups of boiling water, steeping the chopped plants like tea.


4. Once the liquid has cooled, strain and refrigerate.


5. When you're ready to use, pour the cooled repellent into a spray bottle and apply liberally and frequently.

Some research has shown catnip to be a very effective repellent that can also be easily made at home.

The final thing to remember when using these natural alternatives is that, while they may initially be just as effective as DEET-based sprays, they do not last as long. Take care to reapply frequently especially if it is raining or you are sweating.

With natural insect repellent there is no reason to stay inside this summer. Get outdoors and stay bite-free the green way.

Read more about the outdoors:
How to Attract Birds to Your Yard
6 Ways to Go Green on Your Rock Climbing Trip
How to Go Urban Foraging this Spring
How to Have an Eco-Friendly Picnic