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Itching, redness, swelling… Mosquito bites are particularly feared in summer, whether they come from tiger mosquitoes, which carry viruses, or from perfectly harmless insects. Fortunately, there are many natural solutions to repel them, or at least keep them away, like basil and coconut, two essentials.
In the form of a candle, essential oil, room fragrance or plant, lemongrass is undoubtedly the best-known natural repellent for fighting mosquitoes. But it is far from being the only one: there are many tips, accessible and just as natural, which allow you to protect yourself from mosquito bites. Here are three to adopt this summer.
Eucalyptus
We know the virtues of lemongrass essential oil to keep many insects away, but eucalyptus oil also helps prevent itchy skin throughout the summer. While there are roll-on applicators that allow you to apply the product directly to the skin, it is also possible – and recommended – to diffuse a few drops of eucalyptus oil into the air to spend peaceful nights.
It should also be noted that some 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.
Fresh basil
Basil perfumes our summer dishes, but not only that… it is also considered an excellent mosquito repellent, and for good reason, the latter 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.
It is rather advisable to install pots of fresh basil, or failing that bouquets, in the rooms of your home, or on the windowsills to keep mosquitoes at bay. Note that basil is also known for its antiseptic properties; which allows it, by simply rubbing the leaf on the skin, to soothe itching.
Coconut soap
Why do some people get eaten by mosquitoes while others don’t even get their attention? According to a team of American researchers, this could be due to the soap or shower gel used by each person. Published in the journal iSciencetheir study suggests 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 plant-based or plant-like fragrances may actually attract mosquitoes, which, contrary to popular belief, do not feed solely on blood but on plant nectar. These pests may therefore confuse scented skin with flowers of all kinds.
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