An herbal mosquito repellent is a natural product made from plant-based ingredients that help keep mosquitoes away. These repellents use essential oils, herbs, and other plant extracts, such as citronella, eucalyptus, and lavender, to create a barrier against mosquitoes. They are considered safer and more eco-friendly than chemical-based repellents that contain substances like DEET.

Some common herbal ingredients used in mosquito repellents include:

• Citronella oil: Known for its strong lemon scent that repels mosquitoes.
• Lemongrass oil: Contains citronella and is effective against mosquitoes.
• Lavender oil: It has a pleasant scent for humans but repels mosquitoes.
• Neem oil: A strong insect repellent used for repelling mosquitoes.
• Eucalyptus oil: Known for its mosquito-repellent properties.
• Peppermint oil: Repels mosquitoes and has a refreshing fragrance.

Tea tree oil: Acts as an insect repellent and has antibacterial properties.

Yes, herbal mosquito repellents are generally safer for children and pets compared to chemical repellents. However, some essential oils can cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals or pets. It's important to check the ingredients for any potential allergens and use products labeled as safe for children and pets. Always dilute oils or perform a patch test before applying.

The duration of protection provided by herbal mosquito repellents depends on the product type and the environmental conditions. Typically:

• Sprays and creams last around 2 to 4 hours.
• Herbal mosquito coils and candles can protect for 4 to 8 hours.
• Mosquito-repellent patches can last up to 12 hours.
• Essential oils may last 1-2 hours when applied directly.

For longer-lasting protection, you may need to reapply or use multiple products