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With monsoon comes the mosquito menaces and so are the diseases like Dengue, Malaria and chikungunya. Real fight for a parent is to protect children from these diseases and we all know the side effects of various mosquito repellents present in the market. In this post, let us look at natural alternatives to keep off the mosquitoes.

Here are some popular natural mosquito repellents DIY recipes that should drive the mosquitoes away.

Neem Oil

Neem oil is considered as one of very effective mosquito repellent. Neem oil is easily available at nearest chemist shops.

You can dilute this oil with coconut oil and apply on body.

Citronella

This is a popular essential, it is derived from a species of lemon grass and the smell of it is researched to be quite offensive for the mosquitoes, especially the dengue-causing variety. Many top brands repellent cream has this citronella content.

Clove oil

Clove is again a very common ingredient in Indian kitchen and also another very popular and easily-available oil, this too have insect repelling feature.

If using on a small child, mix this oil with coconut oil and apply.

Lemon Eucalyptus Oil (OLE)

A very well-documented mosquito repellent, OLE is known to have an effect as powerful as a chemical repellent. If you read the labels, you will find it listed as an ingredient in most natural insect repellents. If you wish to use it, try and procure the insect-repellent version of it and not the essential oil as the efficacy of the latter is not yet confirmed.

These oils do not work for longer hours, most have an efficacy of maximum 2-3 hours.

However, you can reapply these oils.

• While taking your child to park, ensure they wear full sleeves
• Use mosquito nets or apply mosquito repellents on the hands & legs that are not covered

Here are few plants you can have in your garden to keep mosquito away – 

• Citronella (lemon balm, lemon grass, lemon verbena)
• Geranium
• Eucalyptus
• Rosemary
• Basil
• Anise
• Mint
• Marigold
• Catnip
• Wormwood
• Lavender
• Cedar
• Tansy
• Cloves

Do share in comments if you have any tips or tricks to keep mosquito away naturally.

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