Everyone knows DEET spray works well against mosquitoes. Some say planting scented plants like citronella or lavender helps too. But just having these plants nearby usually won’t stop mosquito bites.
Mosquitoes find people by sensing carbon dioxide, body heat, and skin odors. Certain plants like citronella, lemon eucalyptus, and mint can confuse or repel them, but only if the scent is strong and close. Plants far away won’t protect you much.
Rubbing fresh leaves on your skin doesn’t work because the scent comes from plant oils. Using essential oil sprays is better. Lemon eucalyptus oil is the most effective natural option, but it has a strong smell and wears off quickly.
Different mosquitoes react differently to scents, and some are very aggressive. To reduce mosquitoes, remove standing water where they breed, use larvicide products, and encourage birds or bats that eat mosquitoes.
The easiest personal defense? Use a big fan to keep mosquitoes from landing on you. Wind makes it hard for them to bite.
