How to Use Eucalyptus Oil as Mosquito Repellent

Introduction

Eucalyptus oil is known for its insect repelling properties and have been in use for many years. The possibility to use eucalyptus oil as mosquito repellent has also been exploited extensively. It has been found to be highly effective against mosquitoes and best option as a natural substitute against chemical based repellents.

How to use eucalyptus oil as mosquito repellent and how to enhance its effectiveness through combination with other natural repellents, have been explained below. Will also discuss the benefits and safety considerations, specially against dogs and other pets.

How eucalyptus oil works as a mosquito repellent?

Eucalyptus oil has great medicinal applications, and has phenomenal repelling action against pests and insects. They also possess anti-fungal and anti-microbial properties against many bacteria and fungi. The active components of eucalyptus oil that are responsible for its insect repelling action are:  1,8-cineole, citronellal, citronellol, citronellyl acetate, p-cymene, eucamalol, limonene, linalool, α-pinene, γ-terpinene, α-terpineol, etc.

Citronellal, the most effective component, also found in citronella oil, but the mosquito repelling effect of eucalyptus oil is more efficient and long lasting. A research study, published in Journal of Insect science, has proved that eucalyptus oil provides mosquito protection for up to 3 hours. It attacks mosquitoes with following actions:

1. Citronellal disturbs the mosquito’s senses by interfering with its smelling and host locating mechanism. In short, the body heat and body odors released from humans are kept hidden or masked from mosquitoes.
2. Citronellal has a strong pungent odor that mosquitoes find very unpleasant, and so they leave the area.
3. It also causes disorientation and confusion in mosquitoes, they find it difficult to navigate around.

As per the above citronellal actions, the mosquitoes leave the area without feeding upon humans and animals.

Preparing to use eucalyptus oil as mosquito repellent

The main step for preparing eucalyptus oil for using it as mosquito repellent is dilution. One should dilute it properly using a carrier oil that will help in proper mixing along with other health and skin benefits.

Find below necessary steps to prepare eucalyptus oil for use:

1. Select a carrier oil

Eucalyptus oil is very strong in its action and in its concentrated form may cause skin irritations so, it should be applied only after diluting with a carrier oil like coconut oil, olive oil or almond oil. It also provides additional health benefits and a base for proper mixing.

2. Proper dilution

The eucalyptus oil should be properly diluted in a ratio around:
10 to 15 drops of eucalyptus oil in 1 ounce of carrier oil.

If you are using 2 ounces of coconut oil you should add 20 to 30 drops of eucalyptus oil and mix it thoroughly. For kids, you must dilute it further as they will be having more sensitive skin.

3. Combining with other essential oils

To improve its effectiveness, you can combine it with another natural mosquito repellent essential oil like Citronella oil, Tea tree oil, Lavender oil, etc. You can combine in following ratio:

• 2 parts of Eucalyptus oil,
• 1 part of Citronella oil,
• 1 part of Lavender oil,
• 2 parts of carrier oil

This boosts the overall mosquito repelling action of the combination along with a pleasant smell.

3 ways to Use eucalyptus oil as mosquito repellent

Eucalyptus oil can be easily used in different ways as given below:

1. Direct to skin application

The oil can be used directly after dilution. The diluted eucalyptus oil can be applied on skin around arms, legs and neck areas, because of which mosquitoes will refrain from landing on you or even from coming near you. This creates a protective barrier or shield around your body.

2. In diffusers

The eucalyptus oil can be used in diffusers in your bedroom which will create a mist of air dispersed throughout the room. By adding just few hours of eucalyptus oil in a diffuser, it will form a vapor of active mosquito repelling compounds, and will be spread in every corner of the room. Due to its volatile nature, it can be efficiently used in diffusers.

3. In form of sprays

Eucalyptus oil spray solutions can be made at home using:

• 20 to 30 drops of eucalyptus oil
• 2 ounces of water
• 1 table spoon of witch hazel or alcohol to get it mixed evenly

Mix all together and transfer it into a spray bottle. Shake well before every use. Don’t store for a long time as its effectiveness may not lasts long on storage. This homemade eucalyptus oil spray can be used directly on skin or sprayed around the room corners, beds and curtains, clothing, etc.

You can also spray these solution around your sitting areas in backyard, garden, lawn on patio furniture, etc. for protection at outdoors.

4. In form of candles

Eucalyptus oil candles are also available or you can prepare one at home. These candles are effective for outdoor gatherings. You can also add few drops of eucalyptus oil on a citronella candle or a torch, that will slowly release the active compounds of the oil in the air.

Benefits of using eucalyptus oil mosquito repellent

There are several benefits of using eucalyptus oil as mosquito repellent as given below:

• It is a natural alternative against chemical based mosquito repellents.
• It is bio-degradable, and does not causes pollution and therefore eco friendly.
• It is not unpleasant, it improves the ambience of the surrounding with its pleasant smell.
• It is multi-purpose, apart from mosquito repelling action, It has anti-microbial and anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory properties and can be used against minor cuts and insect bites. It also has strong repelling action against other insects. Also used for cleaning purposes due to its anti microbial properties. Have also got applications in aromatherapy.
• Its a cost effective natural alternative.

Safety considerations while using eucalyptus oil mosquito repellent

• It should be kept away from children. It should never be ingested or consumed, It may cause toxic reactions internally.
• While using for pets, specially cats; you must take extra care as it may be safe for humans but not for pets. Do not apply eucalyptus oil directly on pets or their fur. If using as a spray in air, make sure the space or room is well ventilated.
• The eucalyptus oil should be well diluted as per your skins sensitivity. You must do a patch test on your skin before applying it all over. Check for any rashes, itching or discomfort.
• For using around infants and pregnant women, you should take appropriate care or even seek medical advice from a healthcare provider.

Conclusion

The eucalyptus oil is the most effective natural mosquito repellent and the best alternative for commercial mosquito repellents. The benefits are enormous and its easier to prepare and use. Homemade mosquito repellent products like eucalyptus oil candles, eucalyptus oil mosquito repellent spray, etc. are getting more focus specially among the nature lovers and environment conscious individuals.

The dilution step is very important and should be taken care of. Take safety precautions while using around pets, kids and pregnant women.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)