Dengue prevention: How to make natural mosquito repellents work?

Protecting yourself from dengue starts with keeping mosquitoes away. Natural repellents can be effective when used correctly, helping you stay safe without relying only on chemicals.(Image: pexele)

Dengue season, when mosquito-borne illnesses may explode into a life-threatening condition, is upon us so the best strategy is prevention — which starts with avoiding mosquito bites. There are chemical-based repellents on the market, but some individuals want more natural options to limit their exposure to artificial ingredients, particularly for children or if they have sensitive skin.

Natural mosquito repellents are better for the environment and healthier for you. They are made with plant-based essential oils and other naturally derived ingredients that mosquitoes hate. These repellents can be topically applied or sprayed in the environment, or used in diffusers to repel mosquitoes.

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There’s citronella, neem oil, lemongrass, lavender, and eucalyptus, among many others in nature’s arsenal of solutions that are easy, nontoxic and cost-effective. Knowing how to use these natural repellents properly is essential to enjoy their fullest protective benefits," says Dr Radhika Menon, Public Health Expert, GreenLeaf Wellness Clinic, Chennai.

Below are the most effective natural repellents in the season of dengue, how they work and how you can apply them safely and effectively.

Citronella Oil: The Time Honored Mosquito Repellent!

• Lemongrass-based citronella oil can help to hide the smells that draw in mosquitoes. Use it in:

• Candles or diffusers, inside and out.

• Combine a couple of drops in coconut oil and rub on exposed skin.

• The neem oil possesses great insecticidal properties. To use:

•  Gently, massage a blend of neem oil and coconut oil in 1:1 proportion.

•  Use on arms, legs and other exposed areas. It lasts for about 8 hours.

• A powerful duo Eucalyptus and lemon oils both have elements that fend off mosquitoes well.

•  Blend 10 drops of each oil in a carrier oil such as almond oil.

•  Lightly dab onto skin before going outside.

• Not only is Lavender delightful to smell, it is also a great mosquito repellent.

•  Mix a few drops with your body lotion.

• Put lavender sachets in rooms or use pillow spray.

Garlic Spray – An Oldie but Goodie Solution

• Sulfur is a natural mosquito repellent, and compounds derived from it can repel mosquitoes, even at doses as small as 1 part per million.

• Boil a couple of garlic cloves in water.

•  Spray this mixture in parts of your house prone to mosquitoes.

• Camphor works best while used indoors.

• If space is closed, burn camphor tablets for 15 minutes.

•  The fumes scare mosquitoes away without any harmful chemicals.

•  Recoat with the natural oils every 2-3 hours since they will also evaporate rapidly.

•  When you are camping or hiking, you can use mosquito nets and dresses with long sleeves to afford extra protection.

•  Keep the surroundings neat and free of stagnant water and avoid breeding.