Lavender can indeed repel mosquitoes, although its effectiveness can vary depending on the form it's used in (plant vs. essential oil) and the concentration.
Here's a breakdown:
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Lavender Plants: Growing lavender plants in your garden, especially around seating areas or near doorways and windows, can help deter mosquitoes due to the strong scent released by their essential oils. The compound linalool in lavender is thought to be responsible for this repellent effect, as it can overwhelm a mosquito's sense of smell, making it harder for them to locate hosts. However, the effectiveness of plants in repelling mosquitoes from a large area can be limited and depends on the number and density of the plants.
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Lavender Essential Oil: This is generally more concentrated and therefore more effective than the living plant.
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Studies: Some studies have shown lavender essential oil to be effective at repelling mosquitoes. For instance, a 2019 study mentioned in one search result indicated an 80% repellent rate against mosquitoes for up to eight hours with lavender essential oil. Other research suggests varying degrees of repellency, with one 2009 study finding a 93% repellent rate indoors and around 53% outdoors.
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How to Use:
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Topical Application: Dilute lavender essential oil with a carrier oil (like coconut oil or avocado oil) and apply it to exposed skin. A common recommendation is 1-2 drops of lavender oil per ounce of carrier oil, or a 10-20% dilution for a stronger repellent.
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Spray: Create a DIY spray by mixing lavender essential oil with water in a spray bottle (e.g., 30-40 drops of essential oil per 45 ml of water, or a 20% oil to 80% water dilution). This can be sprayed on skin or clothes.
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Diffuser: Diffusing lavender essential oil in an area can help create a mosquito-deterring zone.
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Sachets: Sachets filled with dried lavender buds or cotton balls with a few drops of lavender essential oil can be placed in outdoor areas like patios or near windows.
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Important Considerations:
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Purity: Ensure you are using 100% pure lavender essential oil (Lavandula angustifolia) for the best results. Synthetic "fragrance oils" do not have the same repellent properties.
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Reapplication: Like most natural repellents, lavender essential oil may need to be reapplied more frequently than synthetic repellents like DEET, especially outdoors or if you are sweating.
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EPA Registration: It's important to note that while research shows promise, the CDC currently does not recommend lavender oil as a primary mosquito repellent, and it is not EPA-registered for this purpose. For situations requiring strong, long-lasting protection against mosquito-borne diseases, EPA-registered repellents are often recommended.
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Attracts Pollinators: While lavender repels mosquitoes, its flowers are known to attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, so consider placement if buzzing insects near seating areas are a concern during bloom time.
In summary, lavender can serve as a natural alternative or a complementary tool in your mosquito management strategy, especially for lighter mosquito activity or when seeking a pleasant-smelling repellent.