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Warmer days are here and we are busy looking for ways to enjoy life outside: brunching on patios, splashing around in pools and firing up the grill. However, rather than running to the backyard, we sometimes find ourselves running for cover from those pesky mosquitoes.
Mosquitoes are attracted to and repelled by certain smells. Unfortunately, humans give off the sweetest of smells to this pest. Carbon dioxide is the key component for mosquitoes while identifying potential food sources. As we breathe, we are exhaling carbon dioxide. These molecules are carried on wind currents and picked up by the mosquitoes, who can use this scent to “track us down”. As we spend more time outside, humans become mosquitoes’ favorite snack.
Some plants can act as a natural repellent to mosquitoes. Citronella, garlic oil, cedar oil and eucalyptus, for example, have powerful and pungent scents that interfere with a mosquito’s ability to use its senses to detect prey. Other plants, like garlic, repel mosquitoes when consumed because the scent leaves through the pores.
Instead of loading up on garlic to repel mosquitoes (and potentially your friends), you can plant a few of our favorite mosquito-repelling herbs in your garden.
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