Mosquitoes are intensely bothered by strong scents, particularly those resembling citrus fruits.
Citrus Scents: Nature's Mosquito Repellent
Many essential oils derived from citrus fruits, such as orange, grapefruit, and lemon, act as effective mosquito deterrents. These scents are naturally unpleasant to mosquitoes and can disrupt their ability to locate hosts. The strong aroma masks the carbon dioxide and other scents that mosquitoes use to find humans and other animals.
- Example: Lemon balm, though not a true lemon, possesses a strong lemon fragrance and is a proven mosquito repellent. Its scent effectively masks human odors, making it harder for mosquitoes to find you.
Beyond Citrus: Other Repellents
While citrus scents are particularly effective, other natural and chemical repellents also deter mosquitoes. This information however, is not included in the provided reference.