How to Use Mint As an Insect Repellent

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Mint plants are one of many aromatic herbs that have been used for centuries and have been passed down for generations. [1] Although the plants' main uses are for culinary and medicinal purposes, the mint plants are also known to have a strong insect repelling quality. [2] This article will introduce you to methods on utilizing the refreshing mint leaves for a natural and effective homemade insect repellent.

Ingredients

  • A pot of live mint plant (Any species will work!)
  • Fresh mint leaves
  • A small bottle of mint oil
  • Small sachets to fill the mint leaves
  • A small bottle of rubbing alcohol
  • One cup of distilled water
  • One spray bottle

Steps

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    A pot of fresh mint plant will also reduce the risk of many pests entering your beautiful home. [3]
    • Did you know a live mint plant can also prevent rats from entering your house? Possible spots include an area with lot of open windows with vegetation growing on the outer side. Don’t forget to put it at a place with plenty of sunlight!
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    Fill an empty sachet with a spoonful of dried mint leaves.
    • You can either hang the sachet on the ceiling to prevent insects from flying in or place it near the small corners.
    • This will be an effective method to prevent cockroaches and ants from entering the house.
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    • By mixing the rubbing alcohol to the mint oil at a ratio of five to one, you can successfully guard yourself and your lovely pets from biting insects. Don't forget to shake before use!
    • Crushing the mint leaves and applying the oil directly to the clothes and to the animal fur will also bring effective results against mosquito bites.
    • Check out the tip section below for a detailed description on making an insect repellent with dried mint leaves.
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    • This prevents insect attacks.
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    • One in the mouth after eating will prevent mosquitoes and ants while you sleep outside.
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    • Boil a half cup of water with a spoonful of the dried mint leaves.
    • Adding other herbs such as Lavender will strengthen the repellent.
    • Cool it down for couple of hours.
    • After straining the mint leaves, add the mint liquid to the spray bottle.
    • Add about a half cup of rubbing alcohol to the spray bottle.
    • Shake well and it is ready to use!
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Expert Q&A

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  • Question
    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
    Pest Control Specialist, MMPC
    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
    Pest Control Specialist, MMPC
    Expert Answer
    Sure, that would be fine. It won't take away from the effectiveness. Go for it.
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    Not Helpful 5 Helpful 6
  • 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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      Tips

      • Dicerandra fruitescens , an endangered mint species, is known to have the strongest repellent quality. [4]
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      • Other oils that can be used as an effective insect repellent include Lavender, tree, and essential oils.
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      Warnings

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      Things You'll Need

      • A pot of live mint plant (Any species will work!)
      • Fresh mint leaves and mint oil
      • Small sachets to fill the mint leaves
      • A small bottle of rubbing alcohol
      • One cup of distilled water
      • One spray bottle

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      Expert Interview

      Thanks for reading our article! If you’d like to learn more about entomology, check out our in-depth interview with Brandon Runyon .

      References

      1. ↑ https://www.homestead.org/herbs/facts-about-mint-history/
      2. ↑ https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/15-household-uses-for-mint-mother-earth-living-187527
      3. ↑ https://www.almanac.com/news/natural-health-home-tips/benefits-of-mint-plant#
      4. ↑ https://www.archbold-station.org/html/research/plant/dicfrusppacc.html
      5. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c666sjSdSzs

      About This Article

      Article Summary X

      Mint naturally repels many insects, and when combined with other ingredients, it can be used as a natural bug spray. To make a bug spray, blend together 2 heads of peeled garlic and 3 cups of mint leaves and stems in a food processor. Then, place a large pot on the stove and add the garlic and mint paste, 2 teaspoons of cayenne pepper, and 12 cups of water. Bring everything to a boil, which should take between 10 and 20 minutes. Once it has started boiling, remove the pot from the heat and let it sit overnight so it can steep. Strain the mixture through a colander and pour the remaining liquid into spray bottles. Finally, add a couple of small squirts of dish soap and shake the bottle to combine everything. To learn how to use dried mint leaves to repel bugs, read on!

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