One of the most terrible things in summer and on hot days are mosquitoes. Not only do these insects bother you by buzzing near your ears, they also sting and leave welts. They don’t differentiate according to age, they all bite the same. Although there are several studies that indicate that mosquitoes bite certain types of people (some say through blood, others through sweat), it is necessary to prevent them from settling in the home.
Below we will tell you some of the most effective recipes to keep away those annoying mosquitoes that can ruin a quiet night or dinner in the garden. The good thing is that since they are homemade and made from natural ingredients, you can use them if you have children or are allergic.
Clove protectant
They say it is the most effective repellent against mosquitoes. You will need baby shampoo, 1 liter of water and 30 units of cloves. Prepare an infusion of cloves and water, strain and pour into the shampoo until a homogeneous mixture is obtained. Apply to all skin exposed to insects (arms, face and feet).
Eucalyptus repellent
For this recipe you need 250 grams of eucalyptus leaves and 1 liter of water. Cook both ingredients for 45 minutes to allow the leaves to release all their essence. While it is still hot, pour it into damp areas of the house and especially onto the door and window frames. This way you prevent mosquitoes from entering.
Chamomile protective agent
You need 250 grams of chamomile flowers and water (necessary amount). Wash the chamomile well and rub it into your skin. Repeat every two hours.
Almond protectant
It is recommended for babies and children as it is very gentle and effective. They are mosquitoes’ favorites because they don’t know how to defend themselves. The ingredients are: 100 ml almond oil, 20 drops of geranium essence and 20 drops of basil essence. Make a mixture of all three and apply to the skin.
Lavender repellent
You will need 100 ml of lavender oil and a skin moisturizer. Make a mixture of both and apply directly. You will feel fresh and protected from mosquitoes.
Citronella repellent
They say that it is one of the elements that most repels mosquitoes and other insects. You can get their oil as a spray, lotion, and wipes to prevent insects from bothering you and your family.
Eucalyptus Protectant (Recipe II)
Eucalyptus essential oil has a very pleasant aroma and is effective in repelling mosquitoes from approaching you. Apply to skin and repeat after 6 hours. You can mix it with thyme, pennyroyal, basil and lemon oil to enhance the effects.
Defense recipe with oil and alcohol
Chemicals can harm your health and that of your family. Therefore, natural repellents are the best option. In addition, they are proven to be the most effective and, above all, economical. In this case, a very good and popular recipe for repelling mosquitoes, flies, fleas and ticks consists of:
• between 10 and 25 drops of essential oil (cinnamon, lemon, eucalyptus, lemongrass, castor)
• 2 tablespoons oil (olive, sunflower or corn oil) or 2 tablespoons alcohol (96°, vodka)
Mix the two oils of your choice or with the alcohol. Rub directly onto skin and clothing. Be very careful not to get it in your eyes, nose or mouth. Reapply every hour when swimming or exercising, even if you have sweated from exposure to the sun. Store the repellent bottle in a cool, dark place. To make it more even, you can add aloe vera gel oil.
More tips to ward off mosquitoes
• Place several mint leaves on the terrace, in the garden or in the house. You can crush them with a few drops of water to release more fragrance.
• Always have a fresh basil plant available (you can easily grow it in a small pot) and place it in the rooms to prevent mosquitoes from entering. Insects do not like the aromatic plant, which is why it is also used as a “living fence” in orchards.
• Put some water and a few sliced garlic cloves in a container. Let it marinate for a few hours and pour it into a spray bottle. Spray throughout the home, especially on curtains and corners of doors and windows. The sulfur in garlic repels mosquitoes, flies, ticks and fleas.
• Consume large amounts of vitamin C daily, especially when outdoors. It is soluble and does not accumulate in the body, so it secretes more sweat, which mosquitoes hate.
• Place a jar of vinegar next to the window. The strong smell will make no insect want to approach, let alone invade.
• Eat foods rich in vitamin B such as lentils, almonds and mushrooms.
• Use wheat sprigs or basil as “mosquito repellent.”
• Other oils of interest as mosquito repellents include castor, rosemary, pine, verbena, thyme, clove, geranium and cedar.
Better with health.