Spring and summer are the perfect time to enjoy all the wonderful things warm weather allows us to do. Backyard barbeques, trips to the park, or just walking around the neighborhood are all great.
Unfortunately, mosquitoes can quickly ruin your time outdoors, making backyard party planning virtually impossible. Mosquitoes are not only a bothersome pest, but they can carry many dangerous diseases.
While many people are skeptical of using chemical repellents, our mosquito yard sprays are the most effective way to eliminate mosquitoes throughout the season. However, if you’re looking for a more organic route, essential oils can be effective, though unreliable.
We’ll explore the efficacy of using essential oils to keep mosquitoes away and what (if any) essential oils you should be using.
Why Do You Need To Keep Mosquitoes From Biting?
Mosquito bites are more than just annoying. These pesky insects need blood to fertilize their eggs, so they will constantly seek out a host. Once they poke you with their proboscis, they not only take your blood, but they can leave behind some nasty side effects. At the very least, you might end up with a raised, red mark on your terribly itchy skin. At worst, you could end up with a horrible disease.
Mosquitoes are one of the deadliest creatures alive simply because of the diseases they can pass on, including the Zika virus, yellow fever, malaria, and many more.
How Do Essential Oils Keep Mosquitoes Away?
We’ve all heard about using citronella candles to keep flies and insects away, but how does it work?
Mosquitoes use a combination of carbon dioxide, body heat, and skin odors to locate humans and animals for feeding. Female mosquitoes use the nutrients found in mammal blood to aid in reproduction.
Certain essential oils contain compounds that mask these cues or repel the mosquitoes due to their strong smell. In theory, applying these oils at large should be enough to keep outdoor parties mosquito-free.
How Effective Are Essential Oils at Keeping Mosquitoes Away?
Studies have shown mixed results about the efficacy of using essential oils to combat mosquitoes.
According to one study, no essential oils were effective at preventing mosquito bites at small concentrations of 5-10%. Larger concentrations of thyme and clove oil were effective at keeping mosquitoes away for more than 3.5 hours, but these were only at high concentrations (50%).
However, most experts don’t recommend applying essential oils topically for concentrations above 2-5%. Likewise, you shouldn’t exceed these amounts when misting the oils either.
While essential oils can be somewhat effective, they are far from guaranteed to prevent mosquitoes from you and are not recommended for people living in areas with high volumes of disease-carrying mosquitoes.
Popular Essential Oils for Keeping Mosquitoes Away
If you decide to try the essential oil route to keep mosquitoes away, here are some ones that have shown efficacy in the past:
- Citronella: Citronella is a great option. In fact, this oil is used in many repellents and candles on the market. When used as an essential oil, it is remarkably effective for short periods and is by far the most effective of all the oils on this list.
- Lemon Eucalyptus: The citrus scent of lemon eucalyptus can keep many insects, including mosquitoes, at bay. This is another oil that needs to be applied often, even after a few hours.
- Peppermint: If you don’t mind the sharp scent of peppermint, this can ward mosquitoes away. However, keep in mind peppermint is only useful in high concentration.
- Lemon Grass: Keeping with the citrus theme, lemongrass can help ward off mosquitoes for a short time. However, it isn’t as effective as Citronella.
- Basil: More than just a delicious spice, mosquitoes can’t stand the scent.
- Lavender: This option not only smells great, but it helps chase off mosquitoes too. Plus, you can use it for additional things; the versatility is a plus.
- Tea Tree Oil: While this option can be effective, it has been known to dry out your skin. If you are planning on using it sparingly or for short trips outside, it is effective at keeping mosquitoes at bay.
Things To Keep In Mind When Applying Essential Oils
While essential oils are a great alternative treatment, there are some pitfalls to be aware of. These products don’t last as long as DEET repellents and aren’t as effective overall. At times, you may have to use a decent amount to keep mosquitoes away, and you must reapply often. If you don’t have a healthy stash of oils, this may end up hurting your wallet more in the long run.
If you plan on using these treatments, be careful to test them on your skin before applying them all over. An allergic reaction can prove worse than a mosquito bite.
Many experts don’t recommend using a homemade formula, especially around children, as it can be dangerous.
Regarding effectiveness and long-lasting protection, take precautions based on your activities. Essential oils might be enough if you are heading out in the backyard or on a short walk. However, if you are hiking, or spending a long time outdoors, you may want to use other methods. Remember, the goal is to protect yourself from these disease-carrying pests. Weigh the options before heading out under-protected.
Additional Ways to Protect Against Mosquitoes
There are more effective ways to get rid of mosquitoes. DEET-based repellents can keep mosquitoes and ticks at bay. Additionally, wearing long sleeves and pants can be effective, provided the material isn’t too thin.
By far, the longest-lasting and most effective way to keep mosquitoes away is with a mosquito yard spray. The Pest Rangers offers a monthly protection plan with optional mosquito protection, as well as monthly mosquito plans, that can keep your property mosquito-free throughout the warm and wet months. For more information, contact us today for a quote!
FAQs
How do I use essential oils to repel mosquitoes?
You can use essential oils by diluting them with a carrier oil and applying them to your skin, adding them to diffusers, or creating DIY sprays to use indoors and outdoors. Always perform a patch test before applying essential oils to your skin.
Can I combine essential oils for better protection?
Yes, combining oils like citronella, lavender, and tea tree can enhance their mosquito-repelling properties. You can mix them with a carrier oil for a stronger, natural repellent.
Do essential oils work as well as chemical repellents like DEET?
Some essential oils, like lemon eucalyptus, have been shown to be as effective as DEET for short periods. However, essential oils typically need more frequent reapplication compared to synthetic repellents.
