Mosquito bites not only cause itching on the skin, but also carry the risk of spreading diseases such as dengue and malaria. But not only that, but even worse, dengue fever and malaria have the potential to cause death.
Naturally, there are many people who try desperately to repel mosquitoes using mosquito repellent sprays or lotions. Unfortunately, the use of this chemical over time will cause other serious diseases for humans. So why not turn to this beautiful, safe mosquito repellent plant?
List of mosquito repellent plants
Lavender
First of all, there is lavender which is well known for its mosquito repellent properties. The secret of this property is in the scent of lavender which contains linalool and lynalyl acetate.
Both of these substances are avoided by mosquitoes, but are not harmful to humans and pets. It smells good and can make the mind calmer. This purple flower plant is small in size so it can be used to decorate a home too. Place it near the door or window to prevent mosquitoes from roaming in the dwelling.
Lemongrass
Lemongrass plant has been known as a complement to cooking spices and also a complement to refreshing drinks. But did you know that lemongrass can also be used as a mosquito repellent? Lemongrass contains citronella oil which mosquitoes do not like. This citronella oil is then extracted by a number of manufacturers to make mosquito repellent mops and lotions.
Lemongrass can grow to a height of 100 cm so it is not suitable for planting in a pot. Instead, plant this mosquito repellent near a fence or near a window.
Catnip
Before becoming a mosquito repellent plant, catnip has become more popular as a plant to lure cats to be more active in their daily lives. This catnip contains nepetalactone oil which is feared by mosquitoes. This oil is also said to be more potent than the chemical diethyl-meta-toluamide.
Plant catnip in a garden area as this mosquito repellent plant can grow tall. You also have to regularly prune it so that the garden still looks neat. For those of you who have cats, be prepared to see them become more active during the day thanks to this plant.
Geranium
Geraniums, also known as ‘tapak dara’ (Indonesian), have beautiful flowers in various colors. This beautiful plant can be used as a mosquito repellent because it contains geraniol and citronellol substances. These two substances create a fragrance that humans love but are afraid of by mosquitoes.
The size of this plant is small to medium. You can plant it near the fence to beautify the exterior or bring it into the house using a small pot to repel mosquitoes that roam.
Lemon balm
Another mosquito repellent plant that contains citronellol is lemon balm. This plant has no flowers, but looks very beautiful and refreshes the atmosphere.
The aroma is also refreshing so it can improve the owner’s mood. Unfortunately, this mosquito repellent is invasive, aka fast growing. Like it or not, the owner must regularly prune so that the garden looks always tidy.
Garlic
You know, who said garlic can only be used to ward off vampires? Planting garlic in a home garden is not a common thing, but it doesn’t hurt to try because garlic has mosquito repellent properties.
If you are too lazy to grow your own garlic, you can take advantage of the garlic bought in the market by slicing it and then spreading it in several corners of the house. If this garlic scent bothers you too much, just add a few drops of lavender oil.
Let’s move from chemicals to natural, safe, and beautiful mosquito repellents!
