They swarm, they bite, and you’re left itching for days after. Those blood-thirsty mosquitos can be a real bother without any type of prevention, regardless of your chosen outdoor activity during the warm season. DEET-base bug sprays have been the commonsense solution for many decades, but public opinions on these solutions have begun to change in part due to their noxious smell and oily texture.
In order to find a more natural DEET alternative, some curious researchers and at-home testers have begun to turn to long-known folk medicinal methods of keeping mosquitos at bay. Many of these methods rely on popular plants, herbs, or their associated derivates. And each method holds a different degree of potential when it comes to measuring up to DEET’s standard of effectiveness.
Herein, you’ll find a brief summary of the scientific research surrounding many plant- and herb-based mosquito prevention solutions. In addition, you’ll find a succinct appraisal of each solution’s overall effectiveness. Before you try any of these plant- or herb-based mosquito prevention methods on your own, be sure to take the time to learn if your chosen method is scientifically proven or simply an anecdotal antidote. With a bit of research, you too can learn to repel mosquitoes for good.
Lavender – Does It Work?
Our Conclusion: Yes
A Scientific Primer on Effectiveness
Scientifically known as Lavandula angustifolia, lavender remains a vibrant option for home gardeners who desire a pop of gentle color in their flower beds. Lavender is also well-known because of its ability to deter grazing animals such as rabbits and deer, who simply refuse to chomp down on them.
This is likely caused by an odiferous compound found in lavender known as linalool. While this compound smells pleasant to humans, it likely causes animals and insects with more sensitive olfactory capabilities to keep their distance (1). When tested (in its essential oil form) on mosquitos in a 2009 study, lavender was even shown to repel 93% and 53% of indoor and outdoor mosquitos, respectively (2).
Our Thoughts
Current research into lavender and its essential oil derivates are promising, with indications that its chemical composition may be able to abate mosquitos in their unrefined state. In the same vein, current research doesn’t indicate any specific dangers from using lavender oil (on the skin, at least). At this point, though, lavender will probably best serve its users mosquito prevention needs if used in conjunction with another better-researched solution.
To learn more about lavender, its uses, and the research surrounding its effectiveness as a mosquito repellent, click here.
Marigolds – Does It Work?
Our Conclusion: Yes
A Scientific Primer on Effectiveness
Currently, many home gardeners use marigolds as an ornamental border without knowing the practical origins of the practice. As it turns out, this floral arrangement system derives from anecdotal evidence showing that marigolds keep mosquitoes and a variety of insects out of their vicinity with their natural odor. Scientific evidence backs this practice as well, with research showing that a compound called pyrethrum serving as the malodorous culprit (3).
This compound (as well as several others) are produced as a marigold plant completes its regular biological processes, causing mosquitos and other insects to keep their distance. Concentrations of these compounds can be found in a marigold’s blooms, meaning that their petals can be concentrated down to an essential oil to take advantage of their abating properties beyond the garden’s limits.
Our Thoughts
Green thumbs have long praised marigolds for their ability to keep hungry bugs away from sensitive produce plants. Though there remains a lack of research to precisely explain the effectiveness and risk of marigolds (or their oil) when used on human skin, current research isolating the plant’s malodorous properties are just as useful when looking for a biological origin for their bug-blocking properties.
So, while marigolds can be said to be broadly effective at keeping mosquitos away, they can only be called conclusively effective when in their living plant form. To learn more about marigolds, their uses, and the research surrounding their effectiveness as a mosquito deterrent, click here.
Floss Flower – Does It Work?
Our Conclusion: No
A Scientific Primer on Effectiveness
Anecdotally, floss flowers (Ageratum houstonianum) are often included in lists of mosquito repellent plants that can work in a particular area. However, little to no reliable scientific research exists to back up these claims, including a lack of research into a chemical source for these insect-repelling properties.
On the other hand, though, biologists have analyzed the pyrrolizidine alkaloids found in this plant’s blooms and found that they are toxic to grazing animals (4).
Our Thoughts
Simply put, floss flowers are not worth your time or attention if you are looking for a proven plant-based mosquito mitigation solution. With so little reliable scientific research speaking to its productivity in this domain, there’s simply no reason to go through the trouble of growing these annual blooms if they will not result in the desired effect. What’s more, the presence of a known toxic compound in this plant makes it a certain no-go for any type of bodily application.
To learn more about floss flowers, their uses, and the research surrounding their effectiveness as a mosquito deterrent, click here.
Lemongrass – Does It Work?
Our Conclusion: Yes, for a short time
A Scientific Primer on Effectiveness
Known for its fibrous nature and uses in Asian cuisine, Cymbopogon citratus (known commonly as lemongrass) has been shown to contain citronella grass (a known natural mosquito repellent) within its chemical composition (5). When concentrated down to its essential oil form, studies have shown that lemongrass has the potential to prevent some 95% of several mosquito species from biting for a 2.5 hour period (6).
This same study further found that lemongrass oil can, in some cases, act as a skin irritant when applied externally. This is likely due to the plant’s rather acidic nature when concentrated.
Our Thoughts
Based on current research, lemongrass appears to be a fairly safe and effective method of keeping mosquitos from biting your skin. However, this plant (and its essential oil-based derivates) may only be minimally useful to anyone looking to stay outside for more than a few hours. That’s because this plant’s oil is fairly volatile, meaning that it will evaporate from the skin in just a couple hours (as studies have shown). Dilution may only further this volatility.
To learn more about lemongrass, its uses, and the research surrounding its effectiveness as a mosquito deterrent, click here.
Mint / Peppermint – Does It Work?
Our Conclusion: Yes, for a short time
A Scientific Primer on Effectiveness
Several members of the mint family (biologically, the Mentha family) have been found to have noteworthy bug-blocking properties (in addition to their naturally crisp aromas). In particular, M. piperata (commonly known as peppermint) has been found to be effective at deterring the hungry gaze of mosquitos for up to 45 minutes when applied topically in its essential oil form (6).
Along the same lines, a field study in Bolivia found Japanese mint (Mentha arvensis var. piperascens) to be around 41% effective at preventing mosquito bites from one species (6). In almost all cases, mint plants are safe for dermal application both deluded and in essential oil form. One notable exception is pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium), which is known to be toxic at any concentration.
Our Thoughts
Mint is an enjoyable garden addition in its own right, given the refreshing odors that emanate from its leaves. However, a savvy gardener may be able to put these leaves to further use by concentrating their oils and applying them dermally as a natural mosquito repellant. Though it may evaporate quickly, research currently shows this oil to fairly effective in this domain. If other natural solutions have been ineffective, mint may be a worthwhile option for you.
To learn more about mint, its uses, and the research surrounding its effectiveness as a mosquito deterrent, click here.
Catnip – Does It Work?
Our Conclusion: Yes
A Scientific Primer on Effectiveness
Feline fans have long known that an active ingredient in Nepeta cataria (commonly known as catnip) drives a cat’s senses into a tizzy. While catnip is a magnet for cats, this mint family’s member’s active ingredient – nepetalactone – has, in fact, been shown to have the polar opposite effect on insects. When distilled and turned into a wax, one 2010 study found catnip to be around 99% effective at keeping observed flies at bay for 3 hours (7).
This is believed to be a result of olfactory overstimulation on the insect’s part. An older study from 2001 backs this up further by demonstrating that Aedes aegypti mosquitoes were up to 10 times more sensitive to catnip compared to commercially-available DEET (8).
Our Thoughts
Though contemporary research relating to mosquito-specific uses is lacking, current research regarding catnip’s use in this domain are promising. As such, catnip may be a useful method of abating mosquitos from a specific area, especially if left in its living form and situated among other known mosquito-blocking plants. Prospective planters should be careful though, given this plant’s invasive nature.
To learn more about catnip, its uses, and the research surrounding its effectiveness as a mosquito deterrent, click here.
Basil – Does It Work?
Our Conclusion: Yes
A Scientific Primer on Effectiveness
Common basil (scientifically known as Ocimum basilicum) has actually received a decent amount of contemporary research that speaks to its effectiveness when it comes to disrupting mosquito biology. One 2009 study, for example, found basil oil to be “highly toxic” to a variety of mosquito larvae. A further 2011 literature review even found basil leaves alone to be 79% effective when it came to mosquito repelling. (6).
However, this same 2011 literature review also found some components of basil oil (namely, methyl eugenol) to be carcinogenic if used at concentrations higher than 0.07%.
Our Thoughts
At-home chefs still have every reason to grow and use basil in their culinary creations. However, those looking to use basil as a natural mosquito prevention method should only do so with caution. While basil oil has been shown to be effective in a scientific setting, its potential health drawbacks at low concentrations necessitate precise dilution when used externally.
To learn more about basil, its uses, and the research surrounding its effectiveness as a mosquito deterrent, click here.
Sage – Does It Work?
Our Conclusion: Maybe
A Scientific Primer on Effectiveness
Salvia officinalis (commonly known as sage) has long found use in creative kitchens around the world and now, may find some use for abating insects. While anthropological evidence shows that the use of sage in this latter domain is prevalent, proper research into its efficiency is sparse. Only one study from 2012 showed a strong correlation be presence of Salvia microphylla or cherry sage and aphid deterrence (9).
Our Thoughts
While the minor body of research on the topic points to sage’s productivity in this domain, very little follow-up research exists to clearly connect these findings to the deterrence of mosquitos, specifically. Also, a lack of research into potential side effects from prolonged dermal sage use implies that interested outdoorsman should probably not use sage in this manner until it can be conclusively ruled safe.
To learn more about sage, its uses, and the research surrounding its effectiveness as a mosquito deterrent, click here.
Lemon Thyme – Does It Work?
Our Conclusion: Maybe
A Scientific Primer on Effectiveness
Thymus citriodorus (commonly known as lemon thyme) has been the subject of folk medicinal solutions for mosquito prevention for generations now. But as far as its specific species is concerned, it remains largely untested both in terms of effectiveness and safety.
However, regular thyme (scientifically known as Thymus vulgaris) has been studied on several occasions. These studies found that a topical application of this plant’s oil to be 97.3% effective at fending off mosquitoes for around 80 minutes. Similar testing found this thyme species to be fairly safe at 2% concentrations (though some photosensitive reactions have been known to occur) (6).
Our Thoughts
Simply put, lemon thyme is not in the conversation when it comes to effective natural mosquito prevention methods. Though some correlations might be drawn between the proven effectiveness of its common thyme relative, these connections cannot be called conclusive due to a lack of analysis of individual active ingredients. Prospective users may choose to look to a more proven option, as a result.
To learn more about lemon thyme, its uses, and the research surrounding its effectiveness as a mosquito deterrent, click here.
Lemon Balm – Does It Work?
Our Conclusion: No
A Scientific Primer on Effectiveness
Melissa officinalis (commonly known as lemon balm, among other names) is commercially used in aromatherapy and perfumery, with some ascribing its aromatic qualities to being able to deter a mosquito’s nose. Some studies have attempted to explain an active connection between this plant’s oil chemical composition and mosquito deterrence, with preliminary (though unenumerated) results. One study in particular attributed any potential bug-blocking properties to the presence of citronella in the plant’s chemical composition (10).
Our Thoughts
At this time, lemon balm cannot receive a proper endorsement in this domain due to the general lack of evidence explaining how and to what degree it is able to prevent mosquitos from biting. Until larger-scale lab and field tests are conducted to test lemon balm’s properties and safety, inquisitive outdoorsman should avoid it in favor of a better-proven option.
To learn more about lemon balm, its uses, and the research surrounding its effectiveness as a mosquito deterrent, click here.
Rosemary – Does It Work?
Our Conclusion: No
A Scientific Primer on Effectiveness
A perennial herb that sees uses from cooking to perfumery, rosemary (scientifically known as Rosmarinus officinalis), with its needle-like evergreen leaves, has been anecdotally prescribed for abating mosquitoes due to its strong natural smell. While this would work in theory, due to the methods mosquitoes use to hunt prey, current research does not support rosemary’s effectiveness in this domain because very little research has been committed to proving this conclusion.
Conversely, research has shown that rosemary may have harmful side effects when its oil is applied dermally. One study noted that the oil contains methyl eugenol, a known carcinogen, which may be harmful to humans at higher than 36% concentrations (6).
Our Thoughts
Like several other plant-based mosquito prevention methods, rosemary should likely be avoided simply due to the potential harm it can cause over long-term external exposures. This aside, rosemary has not (in scientific literature) every been conclusively linked to mosquito-blocking properties. As such, it can do little to help a user prevent bothersome bites.
To learn more about rosemary, its uses, and the research surrounding its effectiveness as a mosquito deterrent, click here.
Garlic – Does It Work?
Our Conclusion: No
A Scientific Primer on Effectiveness
Though a common sense understanding of mosquito hunting techniques might lead to the conclusion that pungent garlic oils would be enough to keep bugs at bay. But scientific research into the topic only found middling results, with a 2011 literature review concluding that there were “far more effective [natural] repellents available that also have a more pleasing odour”(6).
Along the same lines, the same 2011 literature review concluded that consuming garlic has “not been shown to be effective at repelling mosquitoes,” even at consistent volumes as part of a regional diet.
Our Thoughts
Though it anecdotally works to deter vampires, garlic has not been conclusively shown to be an effective mosquito deterrent (when eaten or applied externally) and as such, should not be used for that purpose. Those in search of a natural DEET alternative might opt for a solution that does not require the constant application of a socially-offensive smell to their person.
To learn more about garlic, its uses, and the research surrounding its effectiveness as a mosquito deterrent, click here.
Eucalyptus – Does It Work?
Our Conclusion: Yes
A Scientific Primer on Effectiveness
“Eucalyptus” is not a single plant, but rather an entire genus of over 700 plants that are often fibrous with oily leaves. However, when discussing plant-based mosquito prevention methods, this generalized term tends to refer to Eucalyptus globulus (commonly known as the southern blue gum tree). That being said, this term may also refer to “lemon eucalyptus”, which derives from a different tree and is subject to its own research.
In terms of research, Eucalyptus globulus oil (or eucalyptus oil) has been found to be moderately effective at deterring mosquitoes in a laboratory environment, including in a 1991 study. Later testing in Guinea found the same oil to be 72% effective when it came to blocking mosquitos for two full hours (6).
Our Thoughts
Generally speaking, common eucalyptus oil shows promise and may be used for natural mosquito prevention if it is available in your region. However, the efficiency and safety of eucalyptus should not be confused with lemon eucalyptus, which derives from a different botanical source and has been found to be even more effective when applied externally.
To learn more about eucalyptus, its uses, and the research surrounding its effectiveness as a mosquito deterrent, click here.
Lemon (Fruit) – Does It Work?
Our Conclusion: No
A Scientific Primer on Effectiveness
Lemons and other similar citrus fruit have often been tossed around in folk medicine as an effective mosquito deterrent, likely due to its sharp odor. However, current research to this end is sparse at best, with only a 2006 study concluding that lemon (or its derivatives) is not among the top five plant-derived extracts to demonstrate mosquito abatement properties (11).
Beyond this, few scientific conclusions can be drawn about this option (other than its irritating acidity when applied to sensitive skin.
Our Thoughts
In so many words, lemon or its juices are not a good method of naturally abating mosquitos. Other than its strong, acidic odor, lemons do not contain any active ingredients that have been proven through testing to effectively dissuade a mosquito’s gaze. Those looking to enjoy a lemon’s refreshingly strong scent and still receive effective insect protection may consider commercially-available lemon eucalyptus spray bottles instead.
To learn more about lemons, their uses, and the research surrounding their effectiveness as a mosquito deterrent, click here.
Clove – Does It Work?
Our Conclusion: Yes
A Scientific Primer on Effectiveness
Out of many plant-based mosquito prevention methods, clove (scientifically known as Syzygium aromaticum) actually has a fairly solid case on the scientific front. A 2011 survey study, for example, found this plant’s oil to be effective at an 100% rate for up to 225 minutes in a laboratory setting (6). This has been attributed to clove’s active ingredient, eugenol, which may pose a risk of skin irritation at higher-than 0.5% topical concentrations.
Even so, some significant research institutions have vouched for clove’s effectiveness, such as the University of Illinois Extension (12).
Our Thoughts
If you’re going to go with anyone plant-based DEET alternative (besides lemon eucalyptus), you may as well give clove a try. Even for its potential for skin irritation, clove’s efficiency when it comes to abating mosquitoes is unrivaled in its class. Those lab results have even been duplicated, indicating that at-home DIY users may be able to replicate these long-lasting results for themselves.
To learn more about clove, its uses, and the research surrounding its effectiveness as a mosquito deterrent, click here.
The Best Plant or Herb for Mosquito Prevention
Out of a crowded field, only a few plants and herbs can really shine through based upon their proven efficiency and safety when it comes to preventing mosquitos from biting. Though the field is still evolving, clove currently holds a distinct edge due to its 100% efficiency rating in several lab tests in the past decade.
However, as a close second, eucalyptus is also a worthwhile option for those looking to take a plant’s mosquito-blocking properties with them on the go. Marigolds are also a valuable option for those who are looking to mitigate the threat of mosquitos and other insects in a particular area (such as around a vegetable patch or pool deck).
Are Essential Oils Worth Trying for Mosquito Control?
Generally speaking, DEET is the best and most scientifically-proven method of individually shielding yourself from biting mosquitoes. It is non-toxic for regular use and can be worn by individuals young and old. However, some individuals with sensitive skin may find an opportunity for an effective alternative among essential oil dilutions.
Not all essential oils are alike though, and many are simply not effective in this domain. Be sure to consult professional, peer-edited sources of comparative research before settling on a particular essential oil-based method of mosquito control.
For more information on the effectiveness of essential oils for mosquito control, check out our information on the same topic on this page.
Sources
1 – Syed Z, Leal WS. Mosquitoes smell and avoid the insect repellent DEET. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2008;105:13598–13603. doi: 10.1073/pnas.0805312105.
2 – Müller GC, Junnila A, Butler J, Kravchenko VD, Revay EE, Weiss RW, Schlein Y. Efficacy of the botanical repellents geraniol, linalool, and citronella against mosquitoes. 2009 Jun;34(1):2-8. doi: 10.1111/j.1948-7134.2009.00002.x.
3 – Paul Simon. Science: Could marigolds slay killer mosquitoes?. 17 July 1993.
4 – Wiedenfeld H1, Andrade-Cetto A. Pyrrolizidine alkaloids from Ageratum houstonianum Mill. Phytochemistry. 2001 Aug. 57(8):1269-71.
5 – Leite JR, Seabra Mde L, Maluf E, et al. (July 1986). “Pharmacology of lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus Stapf). III. Assessment of eventual toxic, hypnotic and anxiolytic effects on humans”. J Ethnopharmacol. 17 (1): 75–83. doi:10.1016/0378-8741(86)90074-7
6 – Marta Ferreira Maia and Sarah J Moore. Plant-based insect repellents: a review of their efficacy, development and testing. Published online 2011 Mar 15. doi: 10.1186/1475-2875-10-S1-S11
7 – Junwei J. Zhu, Christopher A. Dunlap, Robert W. Behle, Dennis R. Berkebile, Brian Wienhold. (2010). Repellency of a wax-based catnip-oil formulation against stable flies. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 58 (23): 12320–12326. 8 Nov 2010. doi:10.1021/jf102811k
8 – Elaine Zablocki. Catnip Fends Off Mosquitoes. 28 Aug. 2001.
9 – Ikeura, Kobayashi & Hayata, Ikeura H, Kobayashi F, Hayata Y. Repellent effect of herb extracts on the population of wingless green peach aphid. Journal of Agricultural Science. 2012;4:139–144. doi: 10.5539/jas.v4n5p139
10 – Prof. Marie Chua-Perez, Prof. Maricon Ganas, Prof. Erric Ogdol. Sweet basil and Lemon balm as insect repellants. Assumption College, Higher Education Division.
11 – Amer & Mehlhorn Amer A, Mehlhorn H. Repellency effect of forty-one essential oils against Aedes, Anopheles, and Culex mosquitoes. Parasitology Research. 2006; 99:478–488. doi: 10.1007/s00436-006-0184-1
12 – University of Illinois Extension. Repellents: What Really Works?. 6 Sept. 2006.
Other Forms of Mosquito Repellents
Checkout our analysis of the claims behind other forms of mosquito repellents:
- Sprays
- Household Items
- Essential Oils
- Creams
- Diet
- Clothing
- Sound Frequency Apps