Q&A for How to Use Mint As an Insect Repellent

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What other oils can be used as an insect repellent?

Brandon Runyon
Entomology and Pest Control Expert
Brandon Runyon is a board-certified Entomologist based in Evansville, Indiana. He has over 18 years of experience as a Pest Control professional, and is the Technical Director of Swat Pest Management. Swat Pest Management serves areas throughout Kentucky, Indiana, and Illinois, where they provide safe, cost-effective solutions for client’s pest control needs. He authored Bugged by Bugs: A Comprehensive Guide to Pest Control, a user-friendly guide to commercial pest control practices in hotels, restaurants, apartments, and offices. He graduated from Purdue University with a BS in Entomology, and received a MS in Entomology from The University of Nebraska-Lincoln. He also received an MBA from Western Governors University.

Brandon Runyon

Entomology and Pest Control Expert

Expert Answer

You can also use castor oil. To make a basic insect repellent using castor oil, combine 10 drops of castor oil with 2 tablespoons of carrier oil (like olive, coconut, or sunflower oil), rubbing alcohol, and witch hazel in a small bottle. Shake well and apply a small amount to the skin. Don't forget to test a small amount on your skin first to check for any allergic reactions.

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Question

Can we add lemon extract for scent?

Kevin Carrillo
MMPC, Pest Control Specialist
Kevin Carrillo is a Pest Control Specialist and the Senior Project Manager for MMPC, a pest control service and certified Minority-owned Business Enterprise (MBE) based in the New York City area. MMPC is certified by the industry’s leading codes and practices, including the National Pest Management Association (NPMA), QualityPro, GreenPro, and The New York Pest Management Association (NYPMA). MMPC's work has been featured in CNN, NPR, and ABC News.

Kevin Carrillo

MMPC, Pest Control Specialist

Expert Answer

Sure, that would be fine. It won't take away from the effectiveness. Go for it.

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Question

What is the best way to use citronella leaves as a mosquito deterrent?

Caeiia

Top Answerer

You can get an already established plant and plant it around a patio. For leaves, blend it with some water and spread it around, or rub it on your skin. Carrying/distributing some crushed leaves would help, too.

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Question

Can I use the spray with the alcohol in it on the floors? How can I make a spray that I can use in the house that will not damage the wood but will repel spiders and other insects?

Community Answer

I used a mild window cleaner and added lemon juice (3 to 1 proportion). Shake well and spray inside the house, in the top and bottom corners of walls especially, and wherever else you find spiders and ants. I haven't seen any insects for 2 months.

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How often do I need to use mint leaves for them to be effective?

Community Answer

You would need to use one of these methods each time you went outside around insects.

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Will nibbling on mint leaves every day repel mosquitoes from me?

Community Answer

No. That's just going to keep your breath fresh. If you want to use it as a mosquito repellent, plant mint in a pot. You can always put it outside your backyard door so that mosquitoes don't try to get in through cracks.

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