Updated May 5th, 2024 at 17:35 IST

How to prevent Mosquito Related Diseases? Here Are Some Natural Repellents

Have a look at ways to avoid the nuisance of mosquito bites, known to not only bring discomfort but also the risk of disease transmission.

mosquito bites | Image:Unsplash
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As summer approaches, the nuisance of mosquito bites becomes more prevalent, bringing not only discomfort but also the risk of disease transmission. Here are effective strategies to minimise mosquito bites and enjoy a more comfortable season.

Image credit: Unsplash
Image credit: Unsplash

Ways to prevent mosquito diseases

Dress Appropriately: Opt for light-colored clothing as mosquitoes are attracted to dark shades. Long sleeves and pants in tightly woven fabrics offer better protection than loosely knit materials.

Manage Your Environment: Remove standing water around your home—common in gutters, pots, and birdbaths—as it serves as a breeding ground for mosquitoes.

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Use Mosquito Nets: Adding mosquito nets to your sleeping areas can provide significant protection, especially at night.

Keep Cool: Mosquitoes are drawn to warm bodies, so keeping your body temperature lower can help avoid attracting these pests.

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Image credit: Unsplash
Image credit: Unsplash

Ways to avoid mosquito breeding grounds

Natural Repellents: Consider natural oils such as eucalyptus, neem, lavender, cinnamon, or thyme. These are not only effective at repelling mosquitoes but also emit pleasant scents.

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Burn Camphor: This traditional method repels mosquitoes with its strong odor, preventing them from entering your living space.

Opt for Yellow Lighting: Replace white lights with yellow bulbs, which are less attractive to mosquitoes due to their reduced UV emission.

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Cultivate Repellent Plants: Growing plants like lavender, marigold, and basil around your home can naturally deter mosquitoes with their aromatic properties.

Maintain Cleanliness: Keep your home clean and decluttered to eliminate dark and damp spots where mosquitoes can hide.

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A word of caution on natural repellents

While natural repellents are safer compared to chemical alternatives, they are not without their drawbacks. Ingredients like camphor and neem oil can exacerbate respiratory conditions such as asthma. Always consult with a healthcare provider before using these remedies, especially if you have existing health issues.

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By integrating these strategies into your daily routine, you can significantly decrease the presence of mosquitoes in your environment and reduce the likelihood of itchy bites and related illnesses this summer.

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Published May 5th, 2024 at 17:35 IST