How to Repel Insects with Citronella

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Make insects buzz off using natural citrononella products
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The lemon scent of citronella is used as a natural insect repellent in the form of candles, oil burners (citronella torches), sprays, lotions and soaps. Research has confirmed the effectiveness of citronella in repelling mosquitoes for short periods. For longer lasting protection or when in areas at risk from serious mosquito borne diseases, chemicals such as DEET offer better protection. [1]

Method 1
Method 1 of 2:

Using a Citronella Repellent Product

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    [2] Citronella candles are suitable for repelling insects and mosquitoes in the home and on porch areas. Generally they won't be effective in areas with free flowing air since the scent is dispersed too quickly and won't be strong enough to repel insects; the range of effectiveness is small. [3]
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    They are oil burners suitable for garden use in repelling air borne insects. These are normally available from garden centers. They are great for use during evening barbecues and other garden events. Place several citronella torches around the garden area you wish to protect.
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    These can be applied when bathing before contact with insects or mosquitoes is likely. Be aware that the strength of the repellent effect may not be lasting and lotions or candles may be more effective.
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    Citronella wrist bands are available that are advertised to offer long lasting repellent against insects and mosquitoes. In reality they will only be effective as long as the citronella scent is strong. You may find them useful for use on your children as an alternative to repeatedly applying a repellent lotion or spray.
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    Citronella lotions and sprays are commonly available or you may make you own. Citronella is generally considered safe for application to the skin but apply with care and be wary of any allergic reactions. Apply the lotion or spray to exposed skin and avoid contact with the face and eyes. For citronella to be effective it needs to be re-applied often, at least once an hour.
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Method 2
Method 2 of 2:

Making Your Own Citronella Lotion Spray

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    • Optionally, add 1 or 2 tablespoons of either vegetable glycerin, grapeseed oil, jojoba oil, almond oil, olive oil, or neem oil.
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    Choose from clove, lemongrass, rose geranium, bergamot, lemon, peppermint, rosemary, tea tree, cajeput, cypress, eucalyptus, cedar, catnip and lavender essential oils.
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    Label the bottle accurately so that the ingredients and usage are clear.
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    Spray the lotion on to exposed skin and re-apply every hour.
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Expert Q&A

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  • Question
    What other essential oils can be used as mosquito repellent?
    Ritu Thakur, MA
    Natural Health Care Professional
    Ritu Thakur is a healthcare consultant in Delhi, India, with over 10 years of experience in Ayurveda, Naturopathy, Yoga, and Holistic Care. She received her Bachelor Degree in Medicine (BAMS) in 2009 from BU University, Bhopal followed by her Master's in Health Care in 2011 from Apollo Institute of Health Care Management, Hyderabad.
    Ritu Thakur, MA
    Natural Health Care Professional
    Expert Answer
    Some other good choices are lavender, tea tree oil, sweet basil, lemon, eucalyptus, peppermint, and clary sage.
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  • Question
    Can I put citronella oil in water when I wash the floor?
    Community Answer
    Yes, but you still need soap or detergent. Use 10 drops of citronella to a pint of warm water. Open windows to hasten fresh air drying. The main purpose for using citronella is to discourage insects. If you're simply after a fresh aroma, use pine, eucalyptus, cedar or any woodsy essential oils.
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      Warnings

      • Citronella can cause increased heart rates and allergic skin reactions for some people. Avoid using if you are pregnant and on children under 6 months [4] . Always perform a spot test to a small piece of skin for 30 minutes to test for any reaction before applying to more skin.
        Thanks
      • In geographical areas where mosquitoes are known to carry serious diseases such as Malaria, Dengue and Zika virus use a repellent containing DEET which has been shown to be the most effective mosquito repellent and can last up to 10 hours [5] .
        Thanks
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      References

      1. ↑ http://www.npr.org/sections/goatsandsoda/2016/01/30/464740275/whats-the-best-way-to-keep-mosquitoes-from-biting
      2. ↑ http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/8827606
      3. ↑ http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18437832
      4. ↑ http://npic.orst.edu/ingred/citronella.html
      5. ↑ http://jinsectscience.oxfordjournals.org/content/15/1/140

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