- With translucent wings and dark bodies, mosquitoes don’t look like threats until you feel the tiny sting of one’s bite. Not only can a mosquito’s bite raise an itchy welt that lingers for days, it can also spread disease. While malaria isn't found in the mosquito population in the United States, they can spread West Nile Virus, which can be fatal in rare cases. Using repellent protects you and your family from the risks of mosquito bites.
- If you prefer to use natural repellents to keep mosquitoes away, plant rose geranium bushes around your home. Traditionally used in South Africa to deter mosquitoes, rose geranium leaves emit a strong odor when you bruise or crush them. The leaves contain a compound similar to that found in citronella, which works to keep mosquitoes away. The odor, while strong, is close to that of rose blooms, and many people find it pleasant.
- Plant the bushes around your house. On days you plan to be outside or have your windows open, walk around your home and bruise a few leaves on each plant, and they'll emit a pungent smell that keeps mosquitoes away from your home. To protect yourself, pluck a leaf off a bush and crush it in your hand, then rub the leaf and its juices on exposed areas of your skin.
- The rose geranium leaves lose their repellent power after a few hours, so you'll need to bruise new leaves or reapply the juice to your skin after a while. If planting rose geranium bushes in your yard isn’t an option, you can buy essential oil distilled from the plant. Rose geranium oil is available for purchase at aromatherapy and natural food stores. Place a drop on your wrist, or add 10 drops to a water bottle full of water to create a mosquito repellent spray.
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