Goodbye bites! 7 natural mosquito repellents to know this summer
When summer evenings rhyme with intensive scratching, it's time to draw effective weapons... but gentle ones. Because while chemical mosquito repellents are formidable, they're not always kind to our skin (or the planet). Fortunately, nature also has some formidable tricks up its sleeve to keep these little flying vampires at bay. Here are 7 natural solutions for a more peaceful summer... without ending up covered in mosquito bites!
1. Lemongrass: the classic that works
It's the sworn enemy of mosquitoes, and for good reason: its scent scares them away.
You can use it as an essential oil (diluted in vegetable oil), in candles, or even by planting potted citronella on your balcony.
Essential oils are not suitable for young children or pregnant women. Use in moderation.
2. Rose geranium: pretty and repellent
In addition to its pretty flowers, this plant gives off a lemony scent that is highly disturbing to mosquitoes.
Place some in window boxes, on the terrace or on the edge of the balcony: pretty and useful at the same time!
3. Lavender: pleasant scent for us, repellent for them
A real treat in summer, with its violet flowers and soothing fragrance. Mosquitoes hate it!
As an essential oil for spraying (diluted), or as a dried bouquet in the home, it both perfumes and protects.
4. Lemon eucalyptus: the most effective essential oil
It's one of the most powerful natural repellents, validated by several studies.
Applied in small quantities diluted in vegetable oil to the skin (before going out), it effectively repels mosquitoes for several hours.
5. Basil: an ally in the garden... and for your skin
As well as flavouring your dishes, basil naturally repels mosquitoes.
Plant near openings, rub lightly on the skin, or even leave to infuse to create a homemade lotion.
6. Cider vinegar: grandma's trick
Less glamorous but effective: cider vinegar, mixed with a little water and sprayed onto the skin, repels mosquitoes while being gentle on the epidermis.
For daytime use only, as its scent can be a little strong.
7. Garlic and onion (for prevention)
What if your diet played a role? Some claim that regular consumption of garlic or onion makes our body odor less attractive to mosquitoes.
Test it out if you like it... and aren't planning a romantic dinner in the process.
In a nutshell
You don't have to use DEET to enjoy a peaceful summer. With a few well-chosen plants, a drop of essential oil and a few simple gestures, you can keep mosquitoes at bay naturally while perfuming your home or garden. A gentler, greener solution... and often more pleasant to live with every day!
Adèle Peyches
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