Australians are being advised to protect themselves against mosquitos this summer due to recent weather conditions which have been favourable for mosquito breeding across Australia. Mosquito numbers are particularly high across many parts of Victoria, including species known to transmit diseases to humans. Taking measures to avoid mosquito bites is therefore a critical step to protect against infections.
A 2019 systemic review has found that some plant extracts and essential oils have significant repellent activity against Anopheles spp. mosquitoes, which transmit malaria. The researchers concluded that they could be formulated for the development of eco-friendly mosquito repellents with easy-to-administer, low-cost and risk-free properties.
Herbal Mosquito Repellent (adapted from Mountain Rose Herbs)
Makes about 250mL.
Ingredients
120mL witch hazel water
20mL lemon balm extract
20mL thyme extract
20mL cinnamon extract
20mL rosemary extract
20mL clove extract
20mL epilobium extract
20 drops peppermint essential oil
20 drops eucalyptus essential oil
20 drops lavender essential oil
10 drops lemongrass essential oil
10 drops lemon essential oil
10 drops geranium essential oil
Directions
Pour both the witch hazel extract and the herbal liquid extracts into an 250mL spray bottle.
Slowly drip the essential oils into the bottle.
Cap the bottle and shake vigorously to combine.
Store in the refrigerator. Mixture will be shelf-stable for up to a year when stored properly.
To Use
Shake well before each use. Spritz over exposed skin, avoiding eyes and mucous membranes. Reapply as often as needed. Should skin irritation occur, cease using immediately and wash clean. Do not ingest. Please research essential oils prior to use, especially if pregnant or nursing.
References
Friedman D. Health warning on Ross River virus, Barmah Forest virus and other mosquito-borne diseases. Victorian Government Department of Health (updated Dec 15 2022; accessed Dec 15 2022). Available from https://www.health.vic.gov.au/health-advisories/health-warning-on-ross-river-virus-barmah-forest-virus-other-mosquito-borne-diseases
Asadollahi A, Khoobdel M, Zahraei-Ramazani A, Azarmi S, Mosawi SH. Effectiveness of plant-based repellents against different Anopheles species: a systematic review. Malar J. 2019 Dec 21;18(1):436. doi: 10.1186/s12936-019-3064-8. PMID: 31864359; PMCID: PMC6925501.
Heidi. Homemade Mosquito Repellent. Mountain Rose Herbs c2022 (updated July 13 2022; accessed Dec 15 2022). Available from https://blog.mountainroseherbs.com/noskeeter-spritz
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