Does Basil Repel Mosquitoes?

There is some evidence to suggest that basil may help to repel mosquitoes.

A study published in 2019 (1) found that when basil essential oil was used in a diffuser, it helped to reduce the number of mosquito bites on people nearby.

Basil is a popular herb that is often used in cooking. It has a strong, unique flavor that can add depth to dishes. But did you know that basil may also help to keep mosquitoes away?

Does the Basil Plant Repel Mosquitoes?

The actual basil plant has not been proven to repel mosquitoes.

However, the essential oil made from basil has shown some promise in mosquito repellent studies.

how effective is basil oil to repel mosquitoes

What is Basil?

Basil is a herb that belongs to the mint family. It is native to tropical regions and has been used for centuries in cooking and traditional medicine.

Basil has a strong, pungent flavor and is often used to add depth to dishes. The basil plant is also known for its many health benefits.

Basil is a good source of vitamins A and C, as well as iron and magnesium. It also contains antioxidants that can help to protect your cells from damage.

Basil essential oil is made by distilling the leaves of the basil plant. This process helps to concentrate the plant’s oil, which contains the plant’s active ingredients.

Basil essential oil has a strong, spicy flavor and is often used in aromatherapy.

What are Basil’s Properties?

Basil essential oil is high in a chemical called eugenol. Eugenol is known for its mosquito repellent properties.

Eugenol can be found in other essential oils such as clove and cinnamon. It works by masking the scents that mosquitoes use to locate their victims.

How Does Basil Repel Mosquitoes?

There is some evidence to suggest that basil may help to repel mosquitoes.

The diffuser released eugenol into the air, which masked the scents that mosquitoes use to locate their victims.

This made it more difficult for mosquitoes to find people to bite.

The study found that the diffuser was most effective when used in smaller, enclosed spaces.

Basil essential oil is a natural mosquito repellent that can be used in a diffuser or added to lotions and potions.

When used properly, it can help to reduce the number of mosquito bites.

Is it Safe to Use Basil Oil as a Repellent?

Basil essential oil is generally considered safe to use. However, it can cause skin irritation in some people.

If you have sensitive skin, it is best to do a patch test before using basil oil on your skin.

To do a patch test, apply a small amount of the oil to a small area of skin and wait 24 hours to see if there is any reaction.

If you experience any redness, swelling, or irritation, do not use the oil.

Holy Basil Mosquito Repellent

There are many different recipes for mosquito repellents that contain basil.

One popular recipe is for a holy basil mosquito repellent.

To make this repellent, you will need:

  1. 1/2 cup of holy basil leaves
  2. 1/2 cup of water
  3. 1/4 cup of vodka or rubbing alcohol
  4. 1 tablespoon of glycerin

To make the repellent, simply combine all of the ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth.

Then, transfer the mixture to a spray bottle and use as needed.

Basil mosquito repellents can be made at home with just a few simple ingredients.

When used properly, they can help to reduce the number of mosquito bites.

Basil Oil VS Citronella Oil to Repel Mosquitoes

There are many different essential oils that can be used to repel mosquitoes. However, not all of them are equally effective.

Ciitronella oil is one of the most popular mosquito repellents. But which one is more effective?

According to a study in 2019 (1) citronella oil was found more effective than basil oil. Also Peppermint Oil was better than Basil.

References

  1. Effectiveness of plant-based repellents against different Anopheles species: a systematic review