How to use essential oils to repel mosquitoes effectively.

Essential oils are considered a natural solution for repelling mosquitoes, contributing to the prevention of mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue fever, Zika, and malaria. Essential oils like lemon eucalyptus, lemongrass, lavender, and peppermint all emit scents that repel mosquitoes, but the important thing is knowing how to use them effectively.

Essential oils are effective at repelling mosquitoes, but the duration of their protection can vary.

"Essential oils work by masking odors that attract mosquitoes, such as carbon dioxide (CO2) and body odor," says entomologist Trent Frazer, director of Aptive, a leading pest control company in North America. However, because natural oils are volatile and decompose quickly, they typically only provide protection for a limited time unless combined with a stabilizer or reapplied frequently.

Mr. Frazer confirmed that lemon eucalyptus essential oil, characterized by its refreshing lemon and eucalyptus scent, has been shown to provide protection equivalent to low concentrations of DEET – a common ingredient in commercial mosquito repellents.

In terms of effectiveness, according to entomologist Shannon Harlow-Ellis, Technical Services Manager at the pest control company Mosquito Joe, lemon eucalyptus is one of the most effective essential oils, capable of repelling mosquitoes for up to 6 hours. Meanwhile, citronella oil is the most popular choice, but its mosquito-repelling effect lasts only about 1 hour, or longer if incorporated into candles or lotions. Lavender oil has a repelling effect of about 30-60 minutes, comparable to peppermint oil.

According to expert Frazer, the effectiveness of essential oils can vary significantly depending on factors such as the plant source, extraction method, and concentration. "Whether you use pure or diluted essential oils affects their effectiveness," he added. And because essential oils can evaporate quickly, this means they need to be reapplied frequently.

When buying essential oils, experts recommend carefully checking the information. For example, lemon eucalyptus essential oil is extracted from the leaves of a tree called Corymbia citriodora or Eucalyptus citriodora. And before applying it to the body, we should test for skin sensitivity, as some oils can cause irritation or allergic reactions. Start applying from the top down, dabbing the oil on the neck, elbows, wrists, behind the knees, and ankles.

Experts also recommend using essential oils as a supplementary mosquito repellent, not as the sole method, especially in areas with high mosquito populations or a high risk of disease.

LE THU (According to Real Simple)

Source: https://baocantho.com.vn/cach-su-dung-tinh-dau-chong-muoi-hieu-qua-a204607.html