Mosquitoes are more than just a nuisance—they can ruin a perfectly lovely evening outdoors with their buzzing and biting. Worse yet, these tiny insects are known carriers of various diseases such as dengue, Zika virus, and West Nile virus. While commercial insect repellents are readily available, many of them rely heavily on chemical ingredients that may not be suitable for all individuals or environments.
Thankfully, nature has provided us with effective and safer alternatives. One such time-tested solution involves the aromatic combination of lemon and cloves, enhanced by the heat of a candle. This simple DIY mosquito repellent is not only practical but also pleasant-smelling and eco-friendly.
Why Choose Natural Mosquito Repellents?
Most store-bought repellents contain DEET (N,N-diethyl-meta-toluamide) or permethrin, which are highly effective at deterring insects. However, repeated exposure to these chemicals has raised concerns. Some possible side effects include:
- Skin irritation and allergic reactions
- Respiratory issues in sensitive individuals
- Potential neurotoxic effects, particularly in children
- Environmental impact, especially on aquatic life
For individuals with sensitive skin, allergies, pets, or children, these chemical-based repellents might not be ideal. Natural repellents, on the other hand, are generally safer, biodegradable, and can be made at home using common kitchen ingredients.
The lemon and clove method is a popular home remedy for repelling mosquitoes. Both ingredients have unique properties that make them effective:
- Lemons contain citral and limonene—natural compounds that are unpleasant to mosquitoes. Their citrus scent overwhelms mosquito receptors, deterring them from approaching.
- Cloves are rich in eugenol, a natural oil that has insect-repelling properties. Eugenol is even used in some commercial repellents because of its effectiveness.
- When these two ingredients are combined and gently heated with a candle, they release an aromatic blend that forms a natural shield against mosquitoes.
To create this repellent, you only need a few simple items:
- 2 to 3 fresh lemons
- Whole cloves (approximately 20–30)
- 1 small tea light candle or similar
- A ceramic plate or heat-resistant base
- (Optional) Essential oils like citronella, lavender, or eucalyptus
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Lemons
Cut each lemon in half horizontally. This will expose the juicy interior and essential oils that are key to repelling mosquitoes. Choose lemons that are firm and fresh for maximum aroma. - Step 2: Insert the Cloves
Take the whole cloves and insert them directly into the cut surface of the lemon halves. You can press about 5–10 cloves into each half. The more cloves you use, the stronger the aroma. Try arranging them in a circular or flower pattern for visual appeal. - Step 3: Arrange the Lemons
Place the lemon halves on a plate or shallow bowl. If you’re creating this setup for a patio table or balcony, place them in a circular formation around where people will be sitting. - Step 4: Add the Candle
Place the tea light candle in the center of the lemon arrangement. Make sure the candle is stable and placed on a heatproof surface. - Step 5: Light the Candle and Enjoy
Once the candle is lit, it will begin to warm the air around it, gradually releasing the natural oils from the lemon and cloves into the atmosphere. Within minutes, you should notice a fresh, slightly spicy aroma in the air—and fewer mosquitoes around.
While the lemon and clove method is quite effective on its own, you can boost its power with the following tips:
- Add essential oils: A few drops of citronella, lavender, or eucalyptus essential oil added to the lemon halves will increase the repellent power.
- Use multiple candles: For larger outdoor areas, create several of these lemon-clove-candle arrangements spaced about 2–3 meters apart.
Combine with other natural methods, such as planting mosquito-repelling herbs like basil, mint, or rosemary around your patio or garden.
As with any setup involving open flames, it’s important to be cautious:
- Never leave the candle unattended.
- Keep it away from flammable materials, such as paper napkins or dry plants.
- Place it out of reach of children and pets.
- Extinguish the flame completely when leaving the area or before going to bed.
Why This Method Works
The effectiveness of this natural mosquito repellent lies in its multi-sensory impact. Mosquitoes rely heavily on scent and temperature to locate their prey. The powerful aroma of clove and citrus disrupts their ability to sense humans, while the heat from the candle helps to release these scents continuously into the air. It’s a holistic approach that doesn’t just mask human scent—it replaces it with odors that mosquitoes instinctively avoid.
Creating a mosquito-free outdoor space doesn’t require harsh chemicals or expensive gadgets. With just a lemon, some cloves, and a candle, you can enjoy peaceful, bite-free evenings naturally. This simple, elegant solution not only keeps mosquitoes at bay but also adds a warm, aromatic glow to your outdoor experience.
So next time you’re planning to dine outdoors or relax in your garden, take a few minutes to set up this natural mosquito repellent. Your skin—and the planet—will thank you.
