Looking for essential oils for mosquito bites? You have found the right page.
In this article, you’ll read about some of the best essential oils for mosquito bites that are evidence-based and considered safe to use.
Read: Essential Oils for Dust Mites
Contents
The Best Essential Oils for Mosquito Bites
Here are some of the best essential oils:
1. Citronella Essential Oil
Citronella is one of the most commonly used mosquito-repelling essential oils.
Although researchers have shown that citronella essential oil has anti-fungal properties when used in a spray bottle or a diffuser can be an effective insect repellent.
In several studies, citronella oil was found to have a significant impact in reducing the frequency and duration of mosquito bites when used in lotion.
This recent study shows that citronella directly activates channels of cation that help with mosquito nuisance.
2. Tea Tree Essential Oil
It is another commonly used mosquito-repellent essential oil. Tea tree essential oil has also been found to have a significant impact in reducing itching during a bug bite.
Due to its amazing anti-itch properties, it is an ideal option for children that keep on scratching after a bite.
Not only this, but tea tree essential oil equally reduces the risk of infection from a mosquito bite.
According to this research, it works as a natural antihistamine. This means that application of tea tree oil reduces the activity of the body’s histamine receptors which reduces the allergic reaction from mosquito bites which eventually reduces itching and swelling.
3. Lavender Essential Oil
It is known to be an effective natural antihistamine that prevents the histamine response that can cause itching and swelling.
The healing properties of this essential oil can reduce swelling, stop itching and reduce the risk of infections in the affected area.
Research equally shows that Lavender essential oil has a compound known as linalool which has the same impact on the mosquito’s sense of smell as DEET.
4. Catnip Essential Oil
Catnip essential oil belongs to the mint family and therefore can repel mosquitos, ants, roaches, and gnats.
In this study comparing Catnip to DEET, it is clear that the catnip properties are very effective in repelling mosquitos. Although the properties cannot compare in effectiveness to DEET, the results are significant.
5. Neem Essential Oil
It is probably one of the best and most highly effective natural remedies that repel gnats, mites, ticks, sand flies, and mosquitos.
According to studies, the neem derivatives neutralize about 500 pests thus successfully repelling them. When combined with a carrier oil, it can be used topically and protect users against mosquitos.
Another study revealed that a 2% application of neem oil combined with coconut oil can provide about 96% protection against mosquitos for more than 12 hours.
6. Geranium Essential Oil
Geranium oil is another well-known essential oil that has a compound known as geraniol. Geraniol according to this research has the same effects as DEET on the mosquito’s sense of smell.
DEET is an active ingredient used in conventional mosquito repellants. This means that if you are looking for natural mosquito repellants, you can try geranium essential oil.
Geranium oil is also known to be very volatile and therefore evaporates quickly. Therefore, you might have to consider using it through a diffuse or just applying it on the skin after diluting.
7. Chamomile Essential Oil
Chamomile essential oil has a couple of beneficial properties which can help with mosquito and bug bites.
Although there are fewer reports and studies on this, this recent study shows that the anti-inflammatory effects of chamomile prevent common allergic reactions against mosquito bites.
The same studies show that this essential oil can speed the recovery process and at the same time prevent infections in the affected area.
Precautions!
- Always do a patch test before the application
- Dilute the essential oils before use
- Not for use by pregnant or nursing mothers
Side Effects
- Skin irritation
- Eye redness
- Nausea
- Allergic reactions
How to Use Essential Oils for Mosquito Bites?
Following are a few ways you can use these essential oils:
1. Diffuse
One of the best ways to repel common bugs including mosquitos is to diffuse any of the mentioned essential oils in your house.
Most of these essential oils are very volatile and they can evaporate to repel mosquitos and other bugs.
2. Mix with Lotion
It’s not advisable to apply essential oils directly to the skin in its concentrated state.
Therefore, you can add a few drops of the oil into your lotion and eventually apply it to the whole exposed area.
3. Mix with Carrier Oil
You can also add a few drops of your favorite essential oil to a carrier oil (e.g coconut) and apply it directly on your skin.
The Bottom Line!
The above-mentioned essential oils for mosquito bites are some of the best and safest essential oils available that you can use.
In very rare cases, you can have an allergic reaction. That’s why it is important to do a patch test before applying it to the whole area.
The content present on this page has not been evaluated by any medical authorities e.g FDA. All the information present is solely for informational purposes and is not a substitute for the medical advice provided by your physician. We do not aim to diagnose, treat, or cure any disease or illness.
I am a medical student (MD) and a professional blogger. My aim is to help and educate people about essential oils and how they can be beneficial in improving overall health if used in a proper way.
