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The sunny days are difficult to arrive, but the temperatures are mild enough to mark the return of an insect particularly feared in summer: the mosquito. While we must be particularly concerned about tiger mosquitoes, which carry viruses, the bites of the most harmless mosquitoes can cause itching, redness, or even temporary swelling that is particularly annoying on a daily basis. Here are three natural solutions to keep them as far away from your home as possible.
A pot of fresh basil
Basil not only adds flavor to summer dishes, it is also considered an excellent mosquito repellent, and for good reason: mosquitoes hate the smell of the aromatic plant. However, it is not a question of slathering yourself in it, nor of eating too much pizza and other basil-based dishes to keep mosquitoes away. On the other hand, it is advisable to install pots of fresh basil, or failing that, bouquets, in the rooms of your home, or on the window sills; which will allow you to avoid all the inconveniences linked to mosquito bites. Note, basil is also known for its antiseptic properties; which allows it, by simply rubbing the leaf on the skin, to soothe itching.
A coconut scented soap
Some focus on the mosquitoes’ attention while others repel them without even lifting a finger… Something that could be due to the soap used by some. This is the observation made by a team of American researchers who were interested in the effect that certain perfumes could have on these small insects. Published in the journal iScience, the study tells us that coconut-scented soaps would repel mosquitoes and therefore reduce the risk of bites, although each individual has a unique odor profile. This research also highlights the fact that soaps with scents of plant origin or imitating plants would, on the contrary, attract mosquitoes which, contrary to popular belief, do not feed only on blood, but on the nectar of plants. It would therefore be a question of these undesirables confusing perfumed skin with flowers of all kinds.
Eucalyptus in diffusion
We know the virtues of lemongrass and geranium essential oils to keep away many insects, but eucalyptus oil also helps prevent itchy skin throughout the season. If there are ball-on or roll-on applicators, which allow the product to be applied directly to the skin, it is also possible – and recommended – to diffuse a few drops of eucalyptus oil into the atmosphere to pass peaceful nights. Note also that certain variants, such as lemon eucalyptus essential oil, can soothe mosquito bites, to limit itching and redness. However, it is not recommended to use these oils during the first three months of pregnancy, as well as in children under 6 years old.
Slide: Discover the 10 natural mosquito repellent remedies