The pharmacies are filled with dozens of synthetic mosquito repellents. But what if want to ‘go green' with when it comes mosquito repellents. Are there any natural, non-synthetic options?

The good news is that there are natural mosquito repellents and they're easily available too (first advantage).  Some can be applied directly onto the skin and clothing, and others can be used in your garden.

Skin Applications

1. Citronella Oil

An essential oil (meaning naturally derived) from a grass-like plant found in tropical countries and commonly known as lemon grass. Deemed as one of the most effective of the naturally occurring mosquito repellents, it has a sweet lemony scent. Citronella is available as pure oil, but note that pure citronella oil can cause skin irritation and be harmful to children. Add a few drops of the pure oil to a spray bottle of water. Alternatively there are many citronella-containing lotions, ointments, creams and candles available to buy as insect repellents.

2. Cinnamon Oil

Extracted from the bark and leaves of the cinnamon tree, among its many uses is that of repelling mosquitoes. A few drops of pure oil can be added to a bottle of water and spayed onto your skin or clothing.  Avoid putting too much pure cinnamon oil as it can cause skin irritation especially in children. Alternatively add a few drops to your lotion or sun block cream; just enough to give it a cinnamon scent.

3. Clove Oil

Pure clove oil is another natural substance with mosquito-repelling activities. Again, in its pure form it should be diluted with distilled water, olive oil or rubbing alcohol – a ratio of at least 10:1 – and mixed well before spraying onto the skin. However avoid applying around the nose, mouth or eyes. Also, wash off the clove oil from your skin once you return indoors as over long periods it may cause irritation.

4. Neem Oil

Originating from the tropical Neem tree, it also contains anti-insect properties. Neem oil can be applied directly onto the skin, but if the pure oil feels too oily, mix it into your lotion at 5 parts to 1. It is also safe to use on children. To check for allergic reactions, apply a little onto your skin and check for any adverse effects.

All the oils listed above can be purchased at your local drugstore, supermarket or health food shops.

Garden Treatments

1. Rosemary

An herb used in many cooking recipes, the live rosemary bush is known to ward off mosquitoes – in addition to giving off a pleasant, mint-like smell to your garden. In cold weather, rosemary can be potted and grown indoors.

2. Marigolds

A garden plant, it is well known by farmers for fending off inspects, including mosquitoes. It has attractive yellow, orange or red flowers and can be potted or planted around flower beds or along the house perimeter.

3. Mint

This common, pleasant-smelling cooking herb is known to repel insects including mosquitoes. It can be easily grown as a small bush from which the leaves maybe plucked, crushed and tossed about the garden. Or you can use a mint-infused spray over your garden plants and house deck.

All these plants are readily available from well-stocked nurseries. As you can see, help is not far off for dealing with those pesky little creatures – and you can do so using safe, natural and easily obtained treatments.

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