Patchouli Oil Can Ward Off Mosquito Bites: Study

Researchers say the lotion blocked mosquito bites for up to three hours in controlled laboratory testing.

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Summer is coming, which means mosquito season is soon upon us. Although synthetic insect repellents are still considered the gold standard, concerns about skin irritation and environmental effects have fueled growing interest in natural alternatives.

A study found that patchouli oil may be just as effective as standard insect repellents.

How It Works

The findings, published in ACS Omega, showed that patchouli oil added to a lotion carrier provided complete protection against mosquitoes for up to three hours.