Lemon balm, a member of the mint family, emits a citrusy scent that effectively wards off mosquitoes, making it a popular choice for gardens. Citronella grass, known for its oil, is widely used in candles and sprays, providing a natural deterrent against insect bites. Lavender not only offers a pleasant aroma but also contains compounds that mosquitoes find unappealing. Planting marigolds around your home can create a colorful barrier, as they release a substance called pyrethrum that repels these pests. By incorporating these edible plants into your landscape, you can enjoy a more pleasant outdoor experience while also benefiting from herbs and foliage for culinary use.
List of some Edible plants that repel mosquitoes
- Basil (Ocimum basilicum)
- Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
- Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis)
- Peppermint (Mentha piperita)
- Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus)
- Catnip (Nepeta cataria)
- Garlic (Allium sativum)
- Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)
- Lemon Thyme (Thymus citriodorus)
- Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus)
Important things about Edible plants that repel mosquitoes
Citronella Grass
Citronella grass, scientifically known as Cymbopogon nardus, is a highly regarded edible plant known for its natural mosquito-repelling properties. Its essential oils are not only used in making candles and sprays but can also be infused in culinary dishes, adding a zesty flavor to your meals while keeping pesky insects at bay. Growing citronella in your garden can create a fragrant barrier, as the strong scent disrupts mosquito attraction. Incorporating this versatile plant into your outdoor spaces not only enhances your culinary experience but also promotes a more comfortable environment by reducing mosquito presence.
Basil
Basil, particularly varieties like sweet basil and Thai basil, not only enhances culinary dishes but also serves as a natural mosquito repellent. The essential oils in basil, especially eugenol, possess insect-repelling properties that effectively deter mosquitoes when planted in gardens or kept in pots on patios. You can create a homemade mosquito repellent by steeping basil leaves in hot water and using the cooled infusion as a spray. Incorporating basil into your outdoor spaces not only beautifies your environment but also helps create a more enjoyable, mosquito-free experience.
Lavender
Lavender (Lavandula) is not only a fragrant herb popular in culinary dishes and aromatherapy but also an effective natural mosquito repellent. The essential oils found in lavender contain compounds like linalool and linalyl acetate, which are known to deter mosquitoes. Growing lavender in your garden or on your patio can enhance the aesthetic appeal while providing a barrier against these pests. You can also harvest the flowers and use them in sachets or oils for a natural mosquito-repellent solution in your home.
Lemon Balm
Lemon balm, a member of the mint family, is an effective edible plant known for its natural mosquito-repelling properties. This aromatic herb, with its refreshing lemon scent, contains compounds like citral and geraniol that effectively deter these pests. You can easily cultivate lemon balm in your garden or in pots, allowing for easy access to fresh leaves that can be used in teas or culinary dishes. Not only does this versatile plant enhance your meals, but it also creates a more enjoyable outdoor environment by keeping mosquitoes at bay.
Rosemary
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) is an aromatic herb known not only for its culinary uses but also for its natural mosquito-repelling qualities. This perennial plant emits compounds, particularly camphor and 1,8-cineole, which are effective in deterring these pests. Growing rosemary in your garden or in pots can provide a dual benefit: enhancing the flavor of your dishes while creating an eco-friendly barrier against mosquitoes. Its drought-tolerant nature makes it an ideal choice for many gardeners, ensuring that you can enjoy its benefits without extensive care.
Catnip
Catnip, scientifically known as Nepeta cataria, is an aromatic herb in the mint family that has natural properties to repel mosquitoes effectively. The essential oil extracted from catnip contains nepetalactone, a compound proven to deter pests including mosquitoes for up to three times longer than DEET, a common chemical in insect repellents. This versatile plant can be easily grown in gardens or pots, making it a practical choice for those seeking eco-friendly solutions to keep mosquitoes at bay. Incorporating catnip into your landscape not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also promotes a healthy outdoor environment free from irritating insect pests.
Mint
Edible plants that effectively repel mosquitoes include mint varieties such as peppermint and spearmint, which contain compounds like menthol that naturally deter these pests. Basil, particularly varieties like Thai basil, emits a strong aroma that not only enhances culinary dishes but also works as a mosquito repellent due to its essential oils. Lemon balm, a member of the mint family, has a citrus scent that is pleasing to humans but unappealing to mosquitoes, making it a great addition to your garden. Incorporating these plants into your outdoor space can create a more pleasant environment while providing fresh ingredients for cooking.
Marigolds
Marigolds, particularly the Tagetes species, are not only vibrant additions to your garden but also serve as effective natural mosquito repellents. The flowers emit a strong scent due to compounds like pyrethrum, which is known to deter mosquitoes and other pests. Planting marigolds around your outdoor spaces can reduce mosquito populations, allowing you to enjoy your yard without the annoyance of bites. When combined with other plants such as citronella and lavender, your garden can become a fragrant haven that effectively shields you from these pesky insects.
Sage
Edible plants such as basil, citronella, and peppermint are highly effective at repelling mosquitoes while also enhancing your culinary dishes. Basil, rich in natural oils, not only adds flavor to your meals but also contains compounds that deter these pests. Citronella, often used in candles and sprays, can be grown in your garden or as a potted plant, releasing a pleasant aroma that mosquitoes loathe. Incorporating these plants into your outdoor space can help create a more enjoyable environment, keeping your summer evenings mosquito-free.
Garlic
Garlic, a potent edible plant, contains natural compounds like allicin that effectively repel mosquitoes. Its strong scent acts as a deterrent, making it an excellent choice for your garden to protect against these pests. Incorporating garlic into your diet or using garlic oil can enhance its mosquito-repelling properties, creating a dual defense. Beyond its pest-repelling qualities, garlic also offers numerous health benefits, including boosting the immune system and reducing inflammation.