Natural ways to keep mosquitoes at bay – HRS essential oils showcase

 Whether you are indoors or outdoors, keeping pesky mosquitoes away should be a priority to avoid malaria and other mosquito-borne diseases.

However, protecting yourself and your loved ones should not come at the cost of exposing yourself to toxic chemicals. Instead of using harmful mainstream pesticides laced with dangerous substances, try natural alternatives that are healthier for you, your family and your home environment.

These five essential oils are tried to true natural solutions to keeping mosquitoes at bay.  

Cinnamon bark essential oil – Cinnamon bark essential oil contains an active component called cinnamaldehyde which can not only effectively kill off mosquito eggs, but can also inhibit the growth and development of yellow fever mosquito larvae. Cinnamon bark oil can also work well against adult mosquitoes, especially the Asian tiger mosquito. For a DIY mosquito repellant, simply dilute a quarter of a teaspoon (or 24 drops) of cinnamon bark essential oil in four ounces of water. Spray this solution onto your skin and on your clothing, plants, upholstery or around your home for mosquito protection.

Peppermint essential oil – The pleasant and invigorating aroma of peppermint essential oil helps ward off mosquitoes, ants, spiders and other pests, especially when used in high concentrations. This is also why this highly potent essential oil is a popular choice for use in aromatherapy. When mixed with water and sprayed onto the surrounding area, peppermint essential oil can kill most insect larvae before they can develop into full-grown insects. 

Citronella essential oil – As one of the most reliable essential oils for repelling mosquitoes, citronella essential oil is frequently the top choice as an ingredient in many natural mosquito repellants. It has a proven track record of warding off pesky mosquitoes and other annoying bugs due to its unique and fragrant aroma that can effectively mask other scents that attract most insects, including mosquitoes. As a non-toxic and eco-friendly alternative to commercial insect repellents, citronella oil has been found to be as effective as DEET and can provide protection against mosquitoes for up to 2 hours. However, since the oil evaporates over time, be sure to re-apply diluted citronella oil topically once every 30 – 60 minutes.  

Tea tree essential oil – Also known as melaleuca oil, tea tree essential oil is a great multipurpose insect repellent which can work well against not only mosquitoes but also fleas, lice, bush flies, biting midges and many other pests. Simply mix it with water in a spray bottle and spray the mixture around your home. But in case you do get bitten by a mosquito, diluted tea tree oil can be used to naturally help ease the swelling and itchiness that often accompanies mosquito bites.

Lavender essential oil – Derived from crushed lavender flowers, lavender essential oil has a fragrance that is effective at warding off pesky mosquitoes. As one of the mildest essential oils, lavender oil is considered safe enough for topical use without dilution and is suitable for those with sensitive skin. Simply add a few drops of lavender oil onto a clean cloth and rub the oil onto the bite-sensitive areas of your body.