How to Use Mint As an Insect Repellent

Co-authored by wikiHow Staff

Last Updated: December 25, 2020 References Approved

Mint plants are one of many aromatic herbs that have been used for centuries and have been passed down for generations.^{[1]
X
Research source} Although the plants' main uses are for culinary and medicinal purposes, the mint plants are also known to have a strong insect repelling quality.^{[2]
X
Research source} This article will introduce you to methods on utilizing the refreshing mint leaves for a natural and effective homemade insect repellent.

Ingredients

A pot of live mint plant (Any species will work!)
Fresh mint leaves
A small bottle of mint oil
Small sachets to fill the mint leaves
A small bottle of rubbing alcohol
One cup of distilled water
One spray bottle

Steps

1
Grow a pot of mint leaves to screen the large openings. A pot of fresh mint plant will also reduce the risk of many pests entering your beautiful home.^{[3]
X
Research source}
- Did you know a live mint plant can also prevent rats from entering your house? Possible spots include an area with lot of open windows with vegetation growing on the outer side. Don’t forget to put it at a place with plenty of sunlight!
2
Design and place a mint sachet to shield the areas that are hard to reach. Fill an empty sachet with a spoonful of dried mint leaves.
- You can either hang the sachet on the ceiling to prevent insects from flying in or place it near the small corners.
- This will be an effective method to prevent cockroaches and ants from entering the house.
Advertisement
3
Create your own customized minty fresh insect repellent spray.
- By mixing the rubbing alcohol to the mint oil at a ratio of five to one, you can successfully guard yourself and your lovely pets from biting insects. Don't forget to shake before use!
- Crushing the mint leaves and applying the oil directly to the clothes and to the animal fur will also bring effective results against mosquito bites.
- Check out the tip section below for a detailed description on making an insect repellent with dried mint leaves.
4
Use dry mint leaves in your grain storage.
- This prevents insect attacks.
5
Chew mint leaves.
- One in the mouth after eating will prevent mosquitoes and ants while you sleep outside.
6
Make an insect repellent spray with the dried mint leaves.
- Boil a half cup of water with a spoonful of the dried mint leaves.
- Adding other herbs such as Lavender will strengthen the repellent.
- Cool it down for couple of hours.
- After straining the mint leaves, add the mint liquid to the spray bottle.
- Add about a half cup of rubbing alcohol to the spray bottle.
- Shake well and it is ready to use!

Expert Q&A
Did you know you can get expert answers for this article? Unlock expert answers by supporting wikiHow

Question

Can we add lemon extract for scent?

Kevin Carrillo
MMPC, Pest Control Specialist
Kevin Carrillo is a Pest Control Specialist and the Senior Project Manager for MMPC, a pest control service and certified Minority-owned Business Enterprise (MBE) based in the New York City area. MMPC is certified by the industry’s leading codes and practices, including the National Pest Management Association (NPMA), QualityPro, GreenPro, and The New York Pest Management Association (NYPMA). MMPC's work has been featured in CNN, NPR, and ABC News.

Kevin Carrillo

MMPC, Pest Control Specialist

Expert Answer

Support wikiHow by unlocking this expert answer.

Sure, that would be fine. It won't take away from the effectiveness. Go for it.
Question

What is the best way to use citronella leaves as a mosquito deterrent?

Caeiia

Top Answerer

You can get an already established plant and plant it around a patio. For leaves, blend it with some water and spread it around, or rub it on your skin. Carrying/distributing some crushed leaves would help, too.
Question

Can I use the spray with the alcohol in it on the floors? How can I make a spray that I can use in the house that will not damage the wood but will repel spiders and other insects?

Community Answer

I used a mild window cleaner and added lemon juice (3 to 1 proportion). Shake well and spray inside the house, in the top and bottom corners of walls especially, and wherever else you find spiders and ants. I haven't seen any insects for 2 months.

Warnings

Wash the leaves before putting in mouth.

⧼thumbs_response⧽
Helpful 2 Not Helpful 0
People who have skin allergies should consult their doctors before trying.

⧼thumbs_response⧽
Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
Do not use more than five leaves every day. No more than one leaf per chewing.

⧼thumbs_response⧽
Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0