Mosquito sprays and other miracle cures that the chemical industry produces are promising in the fight against mosquitoes, but they usually help little or not at all. In addition, many of these products contain substances that can damage our bodies sooner or later.
How does catnip work against mosquitoes?
Catnip is an effective, natural mosquito repellent because it contains essential oils that repel mosquitoes. In particular, the active ingredient nepetalactone is ten times stronger than chemical alternatives. You can use the plant itself or diluted catnip oil to keep mosquitoes away.
Essential oils work here
Catnip provides relief and is an ideal anti-mosquito agent. It contains the active ingredient called nepetalactone. While bees, bumblebees and cats are attracted to the plant and its scent, mosquitoes are repelled by the essential oils.
Mosquitoes at a distance
Nepetalactone, according to scientists, is 10 times more effective than the most popular chemical mosquito repellent, which is called diethyltoluamide - DEET for short. Mosquitoes are kept at a distance without causing any harm to you. In addition, catnip is free in the garden and easy to propagate.
How can you use catnip against mosquitoes?
On the one hand, pure catnip oil can be used against mosquitoes. This should be diluted and applied to the skin. Otherwise, irritation or allergic reactions may occur. For example, the oil can be mixed with another body oil such as coconut oil, a cream or just water. The best mixing ratio is 1:4.
The plant itself in use
Alternatively, the whole plant can be used. However, it is not recommended to use them when dried. When catnip is dried, much of the essential oils evaporate.
The following options are available for using the plant itself as mosquito repellent:
- Put catnip on the window sill in the bedroom
- Pluck fresh leaves and rub them on the body before going to bed
- Plant catnip on the terrace or balcony (rest from mosquitoes when sitting together)
- Brew the leaves into tea, put the cooled liquid in a spray bottle and spray it on the skin
Tips & Tricks
A good side effect of using catnip on your own skin or in the house: If you have cats, they will be happy about this new anti-mosquito agent and the environment will thank you too.
