It’s very annoying when you get bitten by mosquitoes, especially when you are outdoors. Even when you are deep in the jungle wanting to experience nature surrounding you. Mosquitoes can be very tricky creatures to avoid. In fact, they can detect the scent of a human 100 feet (30.5 meters) away. Fortunately, there are many methods and products that can repel insects and allow you to enjoy the great outdoors.
Here are list of ways to get the mosquitoes away from yourself naturally. Scroll down to view the fun graphics that we have prepared for you.
Biting bugs don’t like the scent of peppermint.
You can crush up the peppermint leaves and rub it on your skin to ward them off. As an added bonus, peppermint also can also do double-duty as itch relief if you do get bitten!
Catnip, the powerful plant
Yes, catnip is 10x more effective than DEET (the ingredient used in most commercial bug repellents, which is highly toxic). It also repels cockroaches, an attribute that many of us living in urban areas can certainly appreciate. It can be used similarly to peppermint; crushed and rubbed onto the skin.
Lemon balm, another natural bug repellent
Lemon balm is a member of the mint family, and looks quite similar, with soft, grooved, slightly “furry” leaves. But rather than having a minty fresh scent, it has a strong lemony aroma, somewhat similar to lemon verbena and citronella. It contains high levels of a compound called citronellal, which gives it its lemony aroma and flavor that bugs find so unpleasant. You’ll notice that “citronellal” sounds a lot like “citronella,” another plant used in many bug repellent sprays, lotions and candles. BUT they are not the same. Citronella, a grass-like plant that can grow up to 6 feet tall, can be skin-irritant!
Going Fragrance-free
There’s nothing more natural than going fragrance-free and sporting your natural scent. Of course that doesn’t mean you can’t wear sunscreen, deodorant or use hair products – just make sure they are all fragrance-free. Also, be sure to watch your use of scented fabric softeners and dryer sheets, which can remain on your clothes well after laundering.
No Dark Color Clothes
Wearing light-colored clothing not only keeps you cooler, but it also repels mosquitoes. These bloodsucking insects are attracted to dark colors, and they can easily find you if you don’t dress accordingly. In addition to dressing lightly, be sure to pay attention to how much of your skin is exposed. If you’re going to be outdoors for a long period of time, you’ll want to wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, shoes and socks that cover your skin. Another tip for blocking mosquitoes is to wear clothes made of tightly woven materials.