10 Air Purifying Plants that Repel Mosquitoes
Mosquitoes can be one of the biggest nuisances at home. Thankfully, there are a number of air purifying plants that repel mosquitoes while cleaning the air.
Basil
Basil is one of the few herbal air purifying plants that repel mosquitoes. Its strong and rich aroma reduces the carbon dioxide in the air and drives mosquitoes away. You can place basil in a pot in your backyard or in your kitchen. Though any variety of basil works as an air purifier and mosquito repellant, but cinnamon, Peruvian and lemon basil are highly recommended.
Mint
Another herbal air purifying plant that serves as a mosquito repellant is mint. Mint cleans the air and makes breathing easier. Its fresh smell not only relieves people with respiratory ailments but it also repels mosquitoes. Mint is one of the easiest herb to grow. You can rub mint leaves on your skin to drive away mosquitoes.
Lavender
Lavender is a very aromatic herb and it is an excellent choice as an air purifier and insect repellant. It is best known for its calming properties as it relaxes the lungs and relieves you from anxiety and stress. This plant needs ample sunlight and water for it to bloom. Before using this, make sure that you are not allergic.
Geranium
This is an excellent air purifying plant and insect repellant for busy people. It does not require too much attention and care. You can even leave the plant without water for 2 weeks during winter. However, if you want to see it bloom, give it enough sunlight.
Lemon Balm
Not too many people know that lemon balm freshens and cleanses the air. Its essential oil mixed with water works as a great potpourri for your home. Just like citronella, this perennial plant emits an odor that repels mosquitoes.
Eucalyptus
This is another great air purifying plant that repels mosquitoes. Place eucalyptus essential oil in a diffuser and your indoor air will be cleansed and airborne allergens will be reduced. In order to drive away mosquitoes, just crush eucalyptus leaves, mix with rubbing alcohol and place the mixture in a bottle spray. Spray it around your home to expel mosquitoes.
Chrysanthemum
This beautiful flowering plant not only adds a splash of color to your interior but it also purifies the air and repels mosquitoes. It reduces benzene and formaldehyde, keeping your indoor air clean and fresh-smelling all the time. In addition, the powder from the plant is a natural insecticide - it targets the mosquitoes' nervous system, disabling their ability to sting or bite.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is best known as an air purifier but it also works as a natural mosquito repellant. This is easy to grow and very effective in reducing harmful chemicals found in paints, as well as repelling mosquitoes and other bugs. Its medicinal properties help in treating burns and cuts.
Neem Plant
Neem plant is another great air purifying plant and insect repellant. It releases more oxygen than any other plant, replacing carbon dioxide. You can use dried neem leaves or rub neem oil on the skin to drive away mosquitoes. Aside from all this, it is also used as a medicinal plant for its anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory qualities.
Citronella
Citronella is widely used as a mosquito repellant and very few know that this is also an effective air purifier. Its sweet aroma cleanses the air keeping it fresh-smelling all the time and its strong aroma wards off mosquitoes. It is also used as a medicinal plant to treat irritation and inflammation of the skin.
These are the 10 air purifying plants that repel mosquitoes. Though there are a number of air purifying plants sold on the market today, you must be careful in choosing one because some of them attract mosquitoes, like English Ivy and Ficus Alii. If you want a plant that serves as an air purifier and mosquito repellant then choose any of the plants listed here.
Other Sources:
https://www.angieslist.com/articles/6-mosquito-repellent-plants-keep-pests-away.htm
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