Is Neem oil mosquito repellent?
Neem tree is said to treat leprosy, diabetes, ulcers, gastrointestinal troubles, fever, gum disease, liver problems, and additionally, intestinal worms. Despite their area of specialization, most part of neem tree consisting of its bark, leaves, seeds, flower, fruit, stem and even twigs are having some or the other herbal usage.
As a potent attaractant for mosquitoes and a deterrent for most pests, Neem oil which comes from seeds is a valuable by-product of the plant. Neem contains a few active ingredients specifically azadirachtin, nimbin and salannin which are known for their repelling properties against mosquitoes which can be deemed harmful. The primary active compound azadirachtin is known to modify the metamorphosis stages of larva thus inhibiting insect fertility and growth, with such a property against mosquitoes it can prove to be greatly beneficial in infested regions.
How does Neem oil repel mosquitoes?
A strong odor accompanied by bitterness makes Neem oil unpalatable to mosquitoes while neem oil constituents make it noxious to them. There are also various secondary constituents which act as toxins to protect pests. Azadirachtin which is the chief active ingredient in neem oil inhibits the hormone system of mosquitoes thereby interfering with its growth cycle to the extent that egg laying does not happen.
Nimbin and salannin are two of the other active compounds that are contained in neem oil and they are also responsible for its anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory activities.
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When used topically, it is possible that mosquitoes do not bite a person even if they are nearby as being bitter, the scent neem oil releases is able to cover the carbon dioxide and lactic acid emitted by humans. As for the use of sprays, mosquitoes cannot tolerate the strong bitter scent to the point that it repels them and discourages them from seeking out the humans that smell of it.
How to dilute Neem oil for mosquito repellent?
Concentrated Neem oil is always diluted before using as mosquito repellent. Neem oil can be diluted as follows:
1. Neem oil with carrier oil
Neem oil can be diluted by placing five to ten drops undiluted in one table spoon of carrier oil like coconut oil or olive oil. mainly serves the purpose of applying directly on skin i.e. topical applications.
2. Neem oil with water
Mix 10 to 20 drops of Neem oil with 1 cup of water. Add few drops of liquid soap to help the oil to get mixed with water. This is mainly used for spray solutions and can be sprayed in surrounding areas to keep mosquitoes away.
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How to make Neem oil mosquito repellent?
You can easily prepare your own Neem oil mosquito repellent, which is easy and quiet cost-effective. Follow the instructions below:
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon of Neem oil
- 1/2 cup of carrier oil (either coconut or olive oil)
- Few drops of liquid soap (for mixing it well)
- 10 drops of either Lavender or Peppermint oil for fragrance (optional)
Instructions:
- Take a small bowl and mix the Neem oil with the carrier oil, with few drops of liquid soap.
- If you want additional fragrance you can add essential oil at this stage, which is optional.
- Transfer the mixture into a small bottle, which is easy to use.
- Apply on exposed skin areas.
This homemade neem oil mosquito repellent will remain effective and mosquito protection for up to 8hrs. For outdoor visits, you may reapply as needed.
Before applying directly on skin you must check by applying a small patch on skin for any allergic reactions or discomfort.
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Methods to use Neem oil as mosquito repellent
1. Direct application on skin
The extracted oil from Neem tree can be easily blended with a carrier oil such as coconut or olive and be used directly on skin. It helps in providing self defense by repelling and mutes the aroma signals that body emits, which mosquitoes follow in the search of their prey. Simply prepare a neem oil mosquito repellent by combining neem oil and any carrier oil as previously instructed.
2. Neem oil mosquito repellent spray
Most of the neem oil mosquito repellent spray is used in gardens, backyards, lawns or even on areas such as sitting outside. Indoors, it can be sprayed around several areas such as around the frames of the doors and windows, in the bathrooms and toilets as well. It can also be sprayed around, bird baths, plant pots, garage, ponds and fountains, rain barrels, dog pen, chicken coops, etc.
3. Burning Neem oil in lamps or diffusers
Neem oil on burning releases smell with smoke that is unpleasant for mosquitoes. It is excellent for deterring mosquitoes away at outdoor locations. But, it can be used indoors by using diffusers or burning over lamp, to give similar mosquito repelling action.
4. Using Neem oil with other natural repellents
Neem oil can be combined with other natural mosquito repellents like Lemongrass or Citronella oil, Eucalyptus oil, Peppermint oil, Tea Tree oil, etc. These combinations can be prepared as per need in any ratios that give desired results. It can be prepared into lotions, sprays, or solutions for diffusers, etc.
Neem oil mosquito repellent DIY recipes
1. Neem oil and Lemon Eucalyptus spray
Ingredients:
- 10 drops Neem oil
- 10 drops Lemon Eucalyptus oil
- 1 cup of water
- 1 tablespoon alcohol or witch hazel
- 1 empty spray bottle
Instructions:
- Take all the 3 ingredients – Neem oil, Lemon Eucalyptus oil and alcohol or witch hazel and mix them in a spray bottle
- Shake well before use.
2. Neem oil and water spray
Ingredients:
- 20 drops of Neem oil
- 1 cup of water
- few drops of liquid soap
Instructions:
- Take all the 3 ingredients – Neem oil, water, and liquid soap and mix them in a spray bottle.
- Shake well before use.
3. Neem oil and coconut oil lotion
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon of Neem oil
- 1/2 cup of coconut oil
- few drops of lavender or rosemary oil
Instructions:
- Mix Neem oil and coconut oil in a small bowl.
- Add essential oil for fragrance, its optional.
- Store and apply directly on skin as needed.
Advantages and disadvantages of Neem oil mosquito repellent
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Natural and Non-toxic | Unpleasant bitter smell |
| Effective against mosquitoes and many other insects and pests | Skin irritation in some individuals, if not properly diluted |
| Multi purpose, apart from insect repelling has many other heath and skin benefits | Need frequent reapplication as compared to commercial mosquito repellents |
How to use Neem leaves as mosquito repellent?
Neem leaves cannot be directly used. However, it can be used by either burning in fire pits or extracting in some media like water to get Neem infused water solution.
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- Burning Neem leaves: Burn sufficient quantity of dried Neem leaves in a fire pit or any fire proof container. The smoke released will be unpleasant for mosquitoes and will cause disorientation in them. They will fail to locate their hosts due to neem smell within the smoke. It will give a strong repelling action against mosquitoes.
- Neem leaf spray: Take some Neem leaves in a bowl, add water and boil it for 30 minutes. Cool down this Neem infused water and filter it into a spray bottle. Spray this Neem water around your surroundings or at home to keep mosquitoes away.
