Home Remedies for Mosquito Repellent

Mosquitoes are not only annoying, they can be dangerous to your health as well. Some mosquitoes carry West Nile Virus. According to the CDC, West Nile Virus is an illness that can cause fever, headache, muscle weakness vision loss, coma, convulsions and even death. A variety of products are available to repel mosquitoes; however, these products often contain harsh ingredients. Opt for a home remedy mosquito repellent instead to ensure the products you are putting on your body are safe.

Put 2 and a 1/2 teaspoons of basil, citronella, juniper, lemon, cedarwood, myrrh, pine, palmarosa, rose, rosemary or geranium essential oil into a jar. You can use each essential oil individually or in combination. Add one cup of 190-proof grain alcohol to the jar. You can purchase this at most liquor stores. Shake up the ingredients, then use a cotton ball to rub it onto your exposed skin. You can also dab it onto your clothing. The fragrance and alcohol will keep the mosquitoes away.

The sweet smell of vanilla extract will keep mosquitoes from attacking you. Fill an empty spray bottle with one cup of water and one tablespoon of vanilla extract. Spray the mixture all over your body, clothing and hair while outdoors.

Garlic is very aromatic and works well for repelling mosquitoes. Although you may not like the odor garlic will give your body, it will help prevent mosquitoes from biting. Simply mix one part garlic juice and five parts water in a spray bottle. Shake it well and spray the solution lightly onto exposed skin. For added protection, dip several strips of cotton cloth into the mixture and hang them in areas where you wish to keep the mosquitoes away.

Neem oil is vegetable based and extremely safe for use on the skin. Sallanin is a compound found in Neem oil that is effective at repelling mosquitoes. Moisten a cotton ball with Neem oil and rub it onto exposed skin to prevent mosquito bites.