How To Use Catnip To Repel Mosquitoes

How to use catnip to repel mosquitoes

While catnip is a common herb that is often used in cat toys and treats—due to its euphoric and hallucinogenic effects on our domesticated felines—it has also long been known for its powerful repellent action on insects, and mosquitoes in particular.

What kind of catnip repels mosquitoes?

Both catnip (Nepeta cataria) and silver vine (Actinidia polygama) produce chemicals from a group called iridoids that repel mosquitoes, flies, roaches and possibly other insects or mites.

Why do mosquitoes hate catnip?

A whiff of catnip can make mosquitoes buzz off, and now researchers know why. The active component of catnip (Nepeta cataria) repels insects by triggering a chemical receptor that spurs sensations such as pain or itch, researchers report March 4 in Current Biology.

How do you make catnip repellent?

* Mix your newly green alcohol 3 parts catnip to 1 part aloe Vera gel. Optional: 20 drops citronella essential oil. If your spray is too drying on your skin you can add some rose water to dilute it. * Store in a spray bottle and spray liberally as you would regular insect repellent.

How much catnip do I need to repel mosquitoes?

Compounds in catnip are at least as effective as DEET (and potentially up to 10x more effective) at repelling mosquitoes. Fresh, home-grown catnip can be vigorously rubbed between your hands then applied to your skin to provide ~30 minutes of mosquito-free time.

What is the best scent to keep mosquitoes away?

A few of the best include: Lemon eucalyptus – The Center for Disease Control (CDC) has credited lemon eucalyptus oil as a reliable mosquito repellent. If you enjoy the bright smell of lemon, this oil is worth a try. Peppermint – For us, the smell of peppermint is a mark of freshness and cleanliness.

How do you use catnip?

How to Best Use Catnip?

1. Rub catnip into your cat's scratching post to encourage use.
2. Place catnip in toys to promote active play and exercise.
3. Sprinkle catnip in a new environment to encourage shy cats to be comfortable and help cat-to-cat introductions go smoothly.

Is catnip poisonous to humans?

From a toxicological standpoint, no significant toxicity is expected in either humans or cats. In humans, catnip abuse may cause vomiting (if large quantities are ingested), headaches and malaise/lethargy.

What home remedy keeps mosquitoes away?

Incense, candles and oils made from plants or essential oils are very effective against mosquitoes because they cannot stand the smell. Lucky for you, the most effective fragrances, citronella, lemon, lavender, laurel, rosemary or basil, will lend a refreshing smell to your home.

What does a mosquito hates the most?

Mosquitoes are turned off by several natural scents: cinnamon, peppermint, cedar, citronella, lemongrass, patchouli, catnip, lavender, and more. Find a favorite, and use it when you want to spend time outside.

What do mosquitoes absolutely hate?

Mosquitoes hate the smell of lavender, citronella, clove, peppermint, basil, cedarwood, eucalyptus, peppermint, lemongrass and rosemary. They also hate smells such as smoke, for further insight, see our exploration on, does smoke keep mosquitoes away?

What kind of spice keeps mosquitoes away?

Don't forget that other herbs repel many types of insects: Mint, Oregano, Rosemary, Lavender, Sage, and Thyme are commonly used to repel many types of insects in the garden.

Can I sprinkle catnip on the floor?

You can buy powdered catnip or catnip bulbs which you can sprinkle on the ground or on a toy. Some toys come pre-scented with catnip or have catnip inside them. You can also get catnip oil or oil spray, which can be used to scent a toy or bedding.

Can I mix catnip in water?

Last but not least, you can make the water a little more appetizing by adding a little sprinkle of catnip. Cats love the smell of it, and they love lapping it up, too. Have you ever seen your kitten licking the scratching post? Once you start putting catnip in their water, they'll start lapping that up too.

Can you spray too much catnip?

Don't Give Too Much of a Good Thing When it comes to catnip, there can be too much of a good thing. Catnip is fun and stimulating for a while, but too much exposure to catnip can make your cat cranky or even nauseous. Still, there is very little chance of your cat overdosing on catnip.

How much catnip should you spray?

Keep in mind that catnip spray is generally more concentrated than dried catnip leaves, so use it only one or two sprays at a time.

How do I repel mosquitoes forever?

How to Get Rid of Mosquitoes Outside

1. Eliminate Sources of Standing Water.
2. Try a broadcast treatment. ...
3. Clear Debris From Gutters. ...
4. Use Fans. ...
5. Light Citronella Candles. ...
6. Treat Ponds or Water Features.

Could catnip become the new insect repellent?

New research, published this week in iScience, suggests that when cats play with (and damage) either catnip or silver vine, the plants' leaves actually emit higher levels of chemical compounds that do have a benefit: repelling mosquitoes.

What natural scents do mosquitoes hate?

Here are the natural scents that help repel the mosquitoes:

• Citronella.
• Clove.
• Cedarwood.
• Lavender.
• Eucalyptus.
• Peppermint.
• Rosemary.
• Lemongrass.

What scents detract mosquitoes?

Fragrances, such as perfume, cologne, and scented lotions are a known attractant of mosquitoes. Floral scents are the biggest attraction for mosquitoes. It turns out those lady mosquitoes love a flowery fragrance. So when you're addressing the issue of body odor, be sure to avoid washing with fragranced body wash.

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