There’s nothing quite like long summer evenings- the breeze is soft, the flowers smell sweet, and there is a gentle buzz of nature all around. But as the sun dips low and dusk settles in, so do some less welcome guests: mosquitoes.
Mosquito Away Lanterns
Nothing ruins outdoor entertaining faster than mosquitoes. These citronella jars double
as elegant table décor while naturally helping to keep those pesky bugs at bay. Whether you’re popping to the supermarket or foraging in your garden, gather up the following supplies:
Rosemary, Lavender, Mint, Basil, Lemon Slices, Essential Oils, Floating tealights
Fill a glass jar with as many fresh herbs and citrus slices as you can find, top up with water then add a 10-20 drops of your chosen essential oil. I like to use Lemon, but Lavender, Eucalyptus and Peppermint work too. Finally, place a floating tealight on top, light and enjoy.
Essential oils: Natures Secret Weapon
Many essential oils are celebrated for their insect-repelling properties. Here are some of my favourites:
- Thyme essential oil: Place a cotton wool ball with a drop of thyme oil near you at night and mosquitoes will stay clear. Its potent aroma is a natural deterrent.
- Peppermint essential oil: The cooling scent of peppermint is delightful to humans but detested by mosquitoes. Mix peppermint essential oil with an oil and dab onto pulse points.
- Lemon eucalyptus essential oil: The lemon oil disrupts mosquitoes ability to detect human scents, making it harder for them to locate people to bite, acting as a natural deterrent.
Home Scenting
Use 5-10 drops of Lemon, Peppermint, Eucalyptus or Lavender essential oil with an electric diffuser. Or light a candle infused with mosquito repelling essential oils.
Protecting Your Skin
Apply a few drops of Lavender essential oil to a clean, damp cloth and wipe over any exposed skin. You can also use a Lavender infused Body Oil to help repel mosquitoes and soothe the skin.
Repelling Plants That Repel Mosquitoes
Plant Marigold, Mint, Basil and Rosemary in pots and place them on patios or windowsills;
Lemongrass is also a great plant to have in the garden to help repel mosquitoes. Crushing the leaves and rubbing them on your skin can provide an extra layer of protection.
Other Natural Tips:
- Remove standing water: Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water. Regularly empty birdbaths, plant trays, and puddles around your home.
- Use herbal mists: Spritz your outdoor spaces with herbal tonics infused with lavender or peppermint to gently deter insects.
With a little help from nature’s larder, you can reclaim your summer evenings. Whether you’re blending your own essential oils, planting fragrant herbs, or simply enjoying the Norfolk breeze, you can repel mosquitoes gently and effectively.
Let nature nurture you, and let the mosquitoes find somewhere else to be.
Talk soon
B x
