How to Repel a Flying Insect Naturally

Insects like mosquitoes, gnats and bees are not only bothersome, but their bites and stings can cause welts that itch for days. Although products that the contain the chemical DEET are the longest-acting repellents, according to the New England Journal of Medicine, you may prefer a more natural approach. Although they remain effective only a fraction as long as DEET, natural repellents carry little risk of side effects.

Things You'll Need

• Garlic
• Vitamin B supplements or patch
• Basil plant
• Rosemary plant
• Citronella candle and plant

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Instructions

• 1

  Take a garlic supplement or eat food with garlic as an ingredient at least an hour before going outside. Garlic is excreted through the pores --- which is why you can smell it on your skin a day after eating it --- and repels flying insects that do not like the smell. Vitamin B has a similar effect on insects. After you consume a supplement or attach a patch to your body, vitamin B is excreted through your pores and repels insects. You, however, cannot smell vitamin B.

• 2

  Plant rosemary and basil plants in your backyard. The strong odors of rosemary and basil repel insects. As a bonus, you also have fresh herbs for cooking year-round. Since this is more of a long-term solution, you need to take steps to protect your plants through the winter.

• 3

  Light citronella candles when outdoors. Citronella oil comes from the citronella plant and has a strong lemony scent that repels insects. Plant a citronella plant in the backyard for long-term protection.