It is always great to avoid using chemicals and go for natural products instead. Choosing for natural products help in sustaining the balance of the nature and thus helps keeping the environment chemical free. Though there are many mosquito repellent creams and lotions available in the market, but needless to say that they have harsh effects on your skin and environment. But with a little hard work we can substitute them by growing few plants in your garden, which will not only keep the mosquitoes away, but will also ensure a environment filled with great fragrances and herbs. You can grow these plants in pots and keep them near your window and corners, or areas prone to mosquitoes. Here are few herbs which will help….
Lemon Grass– Known for its strong fragrance, it is one of the best plant to keep the mosquitoes away. It also air purifier and can be grown easily in hot regions, as it needs sunlight. Citronella is a natural oil found in lemongrass, and is used as essential oils too.
Marigold– They look amazing and come in different shades too. Similar to Lemon grass this flower has a special fragrance which is not so loved by mosquitoes. Marigolds contain Pyrethrum, a compound used in many insect repellents. Marigolds prefer full sunlight and reasonably fertile soil.
Mint– Mints can spread easily, and they are best cultivated in small containers. Its leaves can be dried and used to make herbal tea. Its flowers will also attract bees and butterflies to your garden. Its strong fragrance is not so liked by the mosquitoes and therefore it will create a barrier for them wherever its kept.
Basil– It has essential oils that can be extracted and used as a spray to repel mosquitoes. It is best used when crushed , to get the maximum benefits, but growing it around, also keep the mosquitoes and germs away. It is also an air purifier. Therefore in most of the Hindu houses, one can find Basil plants at the entrance of the houses.
Lavender– A flower plant, has a rich fragrance used in many health and beauty products. It also promotes sound sleep and helps in distressing. The dried flowers can also be placed in wardrobes to repel moths. It is also used in essential oils.
Rosemary– They do best in hot and dry climates and thrive in containers. It is also used in most recipes for garnishing and flavoring. It also keeps the mosquitoes away.
