Some essential oils can be used for repelling mosquitoes naturally, but when you want to protect an entire outdoor area, contact Terminix for a solution.
Helpful Tips for Repelling Mosquitoes Naturally
If you are prone to mosquito bites and are interested in natural repellents, various essential oils may be options to consider. Read what studies have found about using essential oils as mosquito repellent below.
Essential Oils for Mosquitoes
First things first: It’s important to note that essential oils for mosquitoes aren’t regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Likewise, essential oils cannot protect you against mosquito-borne diseases, such as malaria, yellow fever or the Zika virus. Some people may be allergic to the active ingredients found in essential oils, as well. If you plan to use essential oils as a mosquito repellent, keep that in mind.
Citronella Oil
Citronella is a common natural and effective essential oil that is often found in mosquito repellents. Outdoors, citronella candles can be used to protect concentrated areas. However, research has shown that it takes the right formula for citronella oils to be effective.
Cinnamon Oil
According to a study conducted in Taiwan, cinnamon oil can both kill mosquito eggs and likely act as a repellent against adult mosquitoes.
Lemon Eucalyptus Oil
Lemon eucalyptus has been used as a natural repellent for various insects since the 1940s. One study showed that a mixture of 32 percent lemon eucalyptus oil could provide up to three hours of protection.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is known for its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, but recent field studies have also noted it as an effective repellent against mosquitoes, bush flies and biting midges. .
Thyme Oil
Research conducted on hairless mice suggests that thyme oil is one of the best defenses against mosquitoes. Although the efficacy in humans needs to be studied further, in the study, a mixture of only 5% thyme oil provided a 91% protection rate for the mice.
Protecting Your Yard
When you’re throwing an outdoor event, you’ll need more than a couple of hours of personal protection to keep mosquitoes from buzzing around. Terminix® has a mosquito solution that begins working immediately to reduce the mosquito population in your yard and works for weeks to provide protection. Contact Terminix today to consult with one of our specialists.
