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| Photo: Roberto Pla |
When the rainy season begins in tropical climates, insects that are not only annoying but also transmit diseases also reappear, with mosquitoes being one of the most common.
There are usually eradication plans, which have moderate and even subjective effectiveness because they use chemical substances that can affect humans and household animals.
However, it is known that as a basic rule, mosquitoes cannot stand strong aromas. Based on the above, almost any plant with a strong smell could be used to keep them away (repellents).
This natural method helps significantly to keep our homes with fewer mosquitoes and also perfumes the areas with pleasant aromas.
1.- CITRONELLA (Melissa officinalis)
Mosquitoes can be kept away by gently rubbing the plant to release small droplets that also perfume the environment with a strong lemon-like scent.
2.- LAVENDER (Lavandula Officinalis)
This shrub with elongated purple branches and spikes gives off a fresh and intense aroma. Its name comes from the Latin "lavare", to wash, since for centuries it has been used as a bath scent, in perfumes and cosmetics.
Its strong essence contains components such as linalool, which has energizing properties, and tannins, which are useful as healing agents, antioxidants and skin protectors. In addition to repelling mosquitoes, it helps counteract depression and acts as a tonic for the nervous system. However, it also secretes honey that can be attractive to bees. July and August are its best months for flowering and harvesting.
3.- BASIL (Ocimum basilicum)
This plant, which is native to India and can reach a height of over a metre, is more aromatic when young (20-30cm). It has a very strong and characteristic aroma due to its high content of estragole and eugenol. It has been used as a repellent for centuries and has even been considered a sacred plant and an aphrodisiac when used as a condiment.
4.- GERANIUMS (Pelargonium spp.)
Belonging to the Geraniaceae family, these are hardy outdoor plants ideal for gardens, pots and balconies. This species has an essential oil, phenolic acids, flavonoids and abundant tannins that give off a fragrance when their leaves are rubbed. Rose-scented geranium and cirrhosa are the most common for repelling mosquitoes.
5.- ROSEMARY (Rosmarinus officinalis)
Rosemary is a woody shrub that can grow to over a metre in height. It is also useful because it hosts beneficial insects that are natural enemies of pests. This shrub grows in well-drained soils (not heavy) and it is recommended to place it in sunny, warm places protected from the wind.
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