A person’s vulnerability to mosquito bites is often influenced by scent, light, heat, and humidity. If you attract mosquitoes, bumpy, itchy skin might be a usual experience for you.

Certain mosquito species, such as those that transmit malaria, prefer perspiration and bacteria. Other mosquitoes are drawn to certain hand odors and carbon dioxide.  

While you are outdoors when are out hiking, lounging in your backyard, or camping, natural repellents might be a preferable choice. Given that children are more sensitive, this may be particularly useful for them. 

Here are 5 natural mosquito repellents that are very effective. 

Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus 

Citronellal makes up 85% of the essential oil of lemon eucalyptus. Because of its pleasant aroma, this product appeals to customers including children. Lab tests show that lemon eucalyptus oil is an efficient repellent against several malaria-carrying mosquito species and the yellow fever mosquito.  

According to a 2014 study, a formula with 32% lemon eucalyptus oil offers at least 95% three-hour mosquito protection. 

Citronella Oil 

Citronella is a well-known insect repellent. It is initially just as effective as DEET (an insect repellent). Citronella oil is effective for a brief time because it evaporates easily.

Skin irritation may result from high citronella concentrations. Source has demonstrated that topical applications of 100% citronella can offer total protection against three types of mosquitoes for up to 120 minutes (about 2 hours). 

Geraniol Oil 

Manufacturera use alcohol of the geraniol variety as a flavoring or fragrance. They derive it from plant oils such as rose, lemongrass, and citronella. Depending on the species, researchers have shown it to be effective as an ingredient in mosquito repellents for two hours to four hours.

Thyme Oil 

Thyme can serve as an effective mosquito repellent for a brief time. According to lab research, topical applications of thyme essential oil compounds can offer 89.0- 97.3% protection against mosquitoes for as long as 82 minutes.

Burning thyme leaves can help deter mosquitoes, offering up to 90 minutes (about 1 and a half hours) of 85% protection. 

Peppermint Oil 

Depending on the species, peppermint oil can repel 84%-100% of mosquitoes. Another efficient method for eliminating mosquito larvae in standing water is to add a few drops of peppermint oil.

According to a 2011 study, applying peppermint oil could provide a shield from mosquito bites for up to three hours. Peppermint is a successful insect repellent against ants, cockroaches, and mosquitoes in both its plant and essential oil forms.  

Natural insect repellents are a great substitute for products made of chemicals; they offer the same level of protection at a lower risk to the environment and public health.

By improving user comfort and lowering dependency on artificial chemicals, incorporating these natural repellents into regular activities or outdoor pursuits can help promote a safer and more environmentally friendly approach to mosquito control.