Spices That Repel Mosquitoes

Mosquitoes are almost guaranteed to ruin summertime fun. These insects can not only be a nuisance, but they can also carry diseases such as malaria, and encephalitis, according to the Illinois Department of Health. Many chemical products can repel mosquitoes; however, natural spice repellents can also keep the pesky bugs away.

Basil

• Basil is an often-used spice in many dishes and comes in a variety of colors. You can keep mosquitoes at bay by planting basil in small tabletop planters around your home.

Lemon Grass

• In a 2004 at the California State Science Fair, a study compared the effectiveness of lemon grass at repelling mosquitoes to a Deet-based mosquito repellent. While the study showed lemon grass to have only a 51 percent efficiency rate compared to Deet's 81 percent efficiency rate, many people may be allergic to Deet, making lemon grass a functional alternative.

Rosemary

• Rosemary is an attractive tropical plant that can live outdoors, but must be brought indoors during cold weather. The spice can also be added to your favorite dishes.

Garlic

• Colorado State University researchers have found that the oil in garlic is successful in repelling certain kinds of mosquito larvae. A mixture of 1 percent garlic oil, petroleum jelly and bees wax rubbed on the skin can keep you from getting mosquito bites. Eating a large amount of garlic or taking garlic supplements may also repel mosquitoes due to their use of smell to find victims.