Mosquitoes: what natural methods to drive them away?

Mosquitoes: what natural methods to drive them away?

The mosquito, the sworn enemy of our summers. To hunt it without resorting to chemical insecticides, there are natural and effective solutions.

It is summer, arguably the favorite season for vacationers. Trips, beaches , naps, outdoor evenings... for two months, everything lends itself to relaxation. Almost everything. It is indeed difficult to relax with this unbearable buzzing that grazes our ears at night or these horrible itchy bites. We are of course talking about mystiques! 

How to get rid of it? 

First reflex to avoid this kind of inconvenience, rush on diffusers, sprays or other classic mosquito repellants. But most often, these repellents use DEET (N, N-diethyl-3-methylbenzamide), a chemical compound whose structure is similar to that of so-called organophosphate insecticides which are recognized neurotoxicants. If conventional mosquito repellents remain essential in certain regions of the world struck by diseases such as dengue or malaria, they are not always necessary in countries like France (except in areas where the tiger mosquito is rife ). Especially since there are many natural alternatives.

• Mosquito net

It may seem obvious, many do not have the reflex to install mosquito nets and have fun with chemical repellents polluting and harmful to health, especially that of children. It is however the most effective and the most durable solution to close your interior to mosquitoes.

• The home-made trap

It is possible to form a trap against these insects, with just a few ingredients, and a little elbow grease. For this we heat 20 cl of water in which we add 50 g of brown sugar. Once the mixture has cooled, it is poured into the base of a bottle cut in half. Then sprinkle 1 g of brewer's yeast on the sugar water, without mixing. The upper part of the bottle is then turned over, so that it forms a funnel that will trap mosquitoes. It is then sufficient to wrap the bottle in black paper so that the light does not enter. Mosquitoes, attracted by the fermentation of the mixture, should enter the bottle without being able to get out.

• Essential oils

In a diffuser, in a candle, on the sheets or simply by placing a few drops on the parts of the body exposed, certain essential oils are formidable for repelling mosquitoes . Among the most effective, the essential oil of lemongrass. It is useful both for keeping mosquitoes at bay and for soothing bites. For more intensity as a repellent, it is mixed with cedar and geranium oils. Likewise, lemon eucalyptus essential oil displeases mosquitoes, who shouldn't risk it. If you opt for skin application, however, it is important to be careful to dilute the oils in a little water if you have sensitive skin.If you are pregnant or have small children, always ask your doctor before using essential oils.   

• Plants

Among the plants that you can grow in the house to keep mosquitoes away are obviously lemongrass, but also lemon balm, basil, geranium, lemon verbena or lemon thyme . It is the smell of these plants that bothers these winged critters, dissuading them from stinging. They are therefore placed in strategic corners: balconies, window sills or all around the terrace .