Why Does Lemongrass Repellent Mosquitoes?

Besides being used as a mosquito repellent, lemongrass can also be used in a variety of cooking recipes. It has an intense, earthy-lemony scent that’s known for its ability to fight off flying bugs. In fact, the strong odor has become a signature scent for many mosquito-infested areas.

Besides being effective, lemongrass can also be grown as a decorative plant. It’s hardy enough to survive temperatures that are far from its native Asia.

If you’re interested in making a natural, homemade mosquito repellent, you’ll need lemongrass oil and water. You can make a simple spray by adding 25 drops of lemongrass oil to 500 ml of water. Place the mixture in a spray bottle and use it to protect your skin from biting insects.

Although lemongrass isn’t as effective as DEET, it’s a good alternative. The oil contains citronella, a compound that blocks the mosquito’s sense of smell. It’s also nontoxic and pleasant to the human body. You should reapply the product every 30 to 60 minutes.

However, you should use caution when applying the oil directly on your skin. It’s best to dilute it with a carrier oil, such as avocado oil or coconut oil. You should also keep the essential oils out of the reach of children.

Another option is to crush the leaves of the plant and rub it directly onto the skin. You should reapply the lemongrass oil as needed. This is especially important if you are using a spray, since the plant’s oils only last for a short period.