Last year, several members of the Iowa State University Department of
Entomology presented the results of a study on common catnip. Among their
conclusions was the fact that an essential oil in catnip is 10 times more
effective at repelling mosquitoes than potent chemicals such as DEET.
While the researchers don't know why mosquitoes don't like catnip oil, they
do know a good thing when they see it.
Why not grow some mosquito repellent of your own? If you have a sunny,
well-drained patch of lean garden soil, try planting some catnip. The plant
you need is a perennial herb called Nepeta cataria. Closely related to
ornamental catmint, or Nepeta faassenii (or N. mussinii), catnip is
generally grown as a cat-pleasing or medicinal tea herb rather than for its
looks.
CATNIP AND ROSEMARY MOSQUITO CHASING OIL
MAKES ABOUT 2 CUPS.
2 cups catnip, stemmed
1 cup rosemary, cut in 6-inch sprigs
2 cups grapeseed oil or any light body-care oil
Roll herbs lightly with a rolling pin and pack into a clean jar. Cover with
oil, seal jar and place in a cool, dark cupboard for two weeks.
Shake jar lightly every day or so for two weeks. Strain into a clean jar,
seal and refrigerate for up to 8 months unused.
To use, rub on exposed skin.
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