Natural ingredients can repel mosquitoes.
More than 3,500 species of mosquitoes exist throughout the world, but it only takes a few mosquitoes in your backyard to ruin a summer dinner on the back patio. If you'd like to fend off mosquitoes without using harsh chemicals, you may make your own home repellents. Does this Spark an idea?
Mosquitoes
Small, with translucent wings, mosquitoes are nuisance insects found across the United States. They feed on blood from humans and animals. Not only can a mosquito's bite leave behind an itchy red welt, but it can also spread dangerous diseases like West Nile Virus. Mosquitoes can be deterred from bothering you and your family with naturally occurring scents and chemicals.
Home Repellents
The leaves of a rose geranium plant emit a strong odor when bruised; that scent repels mosquitoes. Plant rose geranium bushes in your yard or purchase rose geranium essential oil at aromatherapy or natural food stores. Citrus fruits contain a compound called d-limonene that repels insects, including mosquitoes. Purchase citrus oil or create your own d-limonene infused solution. To make your own, chop up two or three lemons or oranges, then pour boiling water over them, peels and all. Let the water cool, then strain it into a spray bottle.
Application
To use rose geranium as a homemade mosquito repellent, simply bruise the leaves of the plants in your yard about 30 minutes before you plan on spending time outside. To protect your pets, buy them fabric collars, then place a few drops of rose geranium oil on them. Refresh the oil every week to keep it strong. To use the d-limonene infused solution, spritz down your patio furniture about 15 minutes before you plan to spend time outside. You can spray the solution directly on your skin or spritz your clothes to keep mosquitoes away.
Considerations
Don't spray the citrus spray on cats; it can make them ill. It is safe to use on dogs. If you spray it on your skin, remember that citrus oil can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, which increases your risk of sunburn. Avoid direct sunlight if you use it. Reapply natural repellents every few hours when you use them so they maintain their strength. Discard the citrus solution after a few weeks; it will lose its effectiveness over time.
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