How to Use Lemongrass Oil to Keep Mosquitoes Away Naturally

How to Use Lemongrass Oil to Keep Mosquitoes Away Naturally

Mosquitoes can quickly turn a relaxing evening into an itchy nightmare. But reaching for chemical repellents loaded with DEET isn’t always ideal—especially for families with kids, pets, or sensitive skin. Fortunately, lemongrass oil offers a natural, effective, and safe alternative.

Thanks to its high content of citral and geraniol, lemongrass oil is a proven mosquito repellent used in many organic bug sprays. Best of all, you can use it in your diffuser, on your skin, or outdoors—without harsh chemicals.

In this article, you’ll discover how lemongrass oil works to repel mosquitoes, and easy ways to incorporate it into your home and outdoor lifestyle.

🦟 Why Lemongrass Oil Repels Mosquitoes

Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) is a tropical grass known for its strong citrusy scent. That scent isn’t just pleasant to us—it’s highly irritating to mosquitoes.

🔬 Key Compounds:

  • Citral – disrupts mosquito scent receptors

  • Geraniol – known insect repellent found in many natural sprays

  • Limonene – enhances the mosquito-repelling effect

These compounds mask the carbon dioxide and lactic acid our bodies release, which mosquitoes use to locate their targets.

🌿 Top 5 Ways to Use Lemongrass Oil to Keep Mosquitoes Away

1. Diffuse Indoors to Keep Mosquitoes Out

Running a diffuser with lemongrass oil indoors creates an invisible scent barrier that mosquitoes hate.

How to:

  • Add 5–7 drops of lemongrass oil to your diffuser

  • Place near entry points: windows, doors, balconies

  • Run during mosquito-prone hours (early morning and dusk)

Pro Tip: Mix lemongrass with citronella or eucalyptus for extra power.

2. Make a DIY Mosquito Spray

Create your own chemical-free bug repellent with just a few ingredients.

DIY Recipe:

  • 15 drops lemongrass oil

  • 10 drops peppermint or citronella oil (optional)

  • 1 tablespoon witch hazel or vodka

  • 3 tablespoons distilled water

Shake well and spray on:

  • Clothes

  • Curtains

  • Window screens

  • Outdoor furniture

✅ Safe to use around kids and pets (avoid direct skin contact on them).

3. Apply Topically as a Natural Bug Repellent

Lemongrass oil can be worn on the skin—but always dilute it first.

How to:

  • Mix 2–3 drops lemongrass oil with 1 tablespoon carrier oil (like coconut or almond oil)

  • Apply to ankles, wrists, neck, and arms

  • Reapply every 2–3 hours outdoors

⚠️ Always do a patch test first to avoid irritation.

4. Add to Outdoor Candles or Diffuser Lamps

Using lemongrass outdoors in candles or diffuser lamps can repel mosquitoes during garden parties or camping trips.

Method:

  • Add a few drops of lemongrass to melted wax or oil reservoir

  • Place candles or lamps around sitting areas or doorways

🪔 This creates a gentle scent shield without overpowering your space.

5. Mix with Water for a Mosquito-Repelling Surface Spray

You can use lemongrass oil to clean and repel mosquitoes from surfaces they like to rest on.

DIY Spray:

  • 20 drops lemongrass oil

  • 1 cup distilled water

  • 1 tsp mild liquid soap (for emulsifying)

Shake and spray on:

  • Door frames

  • Patio chairs

  • Window sills

  • Screens and mosquito nets

🌳 Outdoor Use: Protect Your Garden & Balcony

Mosquitoes love:

  • Stagnant water

  • Shaded areas

  • Leafy corners

Use lemongrass oil in plant-friendly sprays to repel mosquitoes without harming your garden.

Garden-Friendly Mix:

  • 10 drops lemongrass oil

  • 1 tsp neem oil (optional)

  • 1 liter of water

Spray on plant leaves (especially near sitting areas) once every few days.

🧠 Why Choose Lemongrass Over Chemical Sprays?

Feature Lemongrass Oil Chemical Repellents
Natural & non-toxic ✅ ❌ Often contains DEET
Safe for kids & pets ✅ (with care) ❌ Can cause skin irritation
Pleasant citrus scent ✅ ❌ Strong chemical smell
Eco-friendly ✅ ❌ May harm environment
Multiple uses ✅ Aromatherapy, cleaning, etc. ❌ Limited to bug repelling

⚠️ Safety Tips and Precautions

  • Always dilute before applying to skin

  • Avoid contact with eyes, cuts, and mucous membranes

  • Don’t diffuse continuously around infants or pets

  • Store oil in a cool, dark place

  • Discontinue use if irritation occurs

🙋 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I use lemongrass oil around babies or toddlers?

A: Diffuse only in short sessions (15–20 min), and keep babies at a distance. Topical use is not recommended under age 2.

Q2: Does lemongrass oil kill mosquitoes or just repel them?

A: It repels mosquitoes by interfering with their ability to locate humans. It doesn’t kill them.

Q3: Can I apply lemongrass oil directly to my skin?

A: No. Always dilute it with a carrier oil before skin application.

Q4: Will lemongrass oil work against other bugs too?

A: Yes! It can also deter ants, flies, ticks, and fleas.

Q5: How often should I reapply it outdoors?

A: Every 2–3 hours, especially if you're sweating or near water.

🌟 Final Thoughts

Lemongrass oil is not just a fragrant addition to your diffuser—it’s a powerful, natural tool to keep mosquitoes away safely and effectively.

Whether you’re relaxing at home, camping outdoors, or protecting your family from bites, lemongrass oil provides a clean, eco-friendly, and budget-friendly solution.

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