How to Make Lemon Grass Mosquito Repellent?

Lemon grass, with its vibrant citrus scent, offers a natural and effective way to repel mosquitoes. Creating your own lemon grass mosquito repellent is surprisingly simple and cost-effective, involving either extracting its essential oils or crafting a potent infusion from its leaves. This article provides detailed instructions on both methods, empowering you to protect yourself from pesky bites naturally.

Extracting the Repellent Power of Lemon Grass

The effectiveness of lemon grass as a mosquito repellent lies in its high concentration of citronellal and geraniol, compounds scientifically proven to deter these insects. There are two primary approaches to harnessing this power: extracting essential oil and creating an infused spray.

Method 1: Lemon Grass Essential Oil Extraction (DIY)

This method requires more time and specialized equipment but yields a pure, concentrated repellent. While not a true “essential oil” in the commercially extracted sense, the process achieves a similar, albeit less potent, result.

What You’ll Need:

• Fresh lemon grass stalks (approximately 1 pound)
• Distilled water
• Large pot with a tight-fitting lid
• Smaller bowl (heat-safe)
• Ice
• Oven mitts

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Lemon Grass: Thoroughly wash the lemon grass stalks and chop them into smaller pieces (approximately 1-2 inches).
2. Distillation Setup: Place the chopped lemon grass in the large pot. Add enough distilled water to cover the lemon grass, but don’t completely fill the pot – leave room for steam. Place the heat-safe bowl in the center of the pot.
3. Cooling Lid: Turn the pot lid upside down. This allows condensation to drip into the bowl. Place ice on top of the inverted lid. This helps cool the steam and encourages condensation.
4. Heating and Condensation: Bring the water to a gentle simmer over medium heat. The steam will carry the lemon grass’s oils upward, condense on the cool lid, and drip into the bowl.
5. Simmering Time: Simmer for approximately 2-3 hours, replenishing the ice on the lid as needed. Ensure the water doesn’t completely evaporate; add more if necessary.
6. Collection and Separation: Carefully remove the pot from the heat (using oven mitts). Allow it to cool completely.
7. Oil Separation: Remove the bowl containing the condensed water and oil. The oil will float on top of the water. Carefully skim the oil off the surface using a spoon or pipette. This will be your concentrated lemon grass oil.
8. Storage: Store the oil in a dark glass bottle in a cool, dark place.

Important Note: This method yields a smaller amount of oil compared to commercial extraction. It’s more accurately described as a hydrosol with a concentrated oil layer. Always test a small area of skin for sensitivity before applying liberally.

Method 2: Lemon Grass Infusion Spray

This method is quicker and easier, making it ideal for those looking for a readily available repellent.

What You’ll Need:

• Fresh or dried lemon grass (1 cup chopped fresh or 1/2 cup dried)
• Boiling water (2 cups)
• Spray bottle
• Cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve
• Optional: Witch hazel or vodka (1/4 cup, for preservation and added repellent properties)

Instructions:

1. Infusion: Place the lemon grass in a heat-safe bowl. Pour boiling water over the lemon grass.
2. Steep: Cover the bowl and let the mixture steep for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the water to fully extract the essential oils.
3. Strain: Strain the infusion through cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve to remove the plant material.
4. Add Preservative (Optional): If desired, add witch hazel or vodka to help preserve the spray and enhance its repellent properties.
5. Transfer to Spray Bottle: Pour the infused liquid into a clean spray bottle.
6. Usage: Spray liberally on skin and clothing, avoiding eyes and mouth. Reapply every 2-3 hours, or as needed.

Safety Precautions and Considerations

While lemon grass is generally safe for topical use, it’s important to take certain precautions.

• Allergy Test: Always perform a patch test on a small area of skin before applying liberally to ensure you don’t have an allergic reaction.
• Photosensitivity: Lemon grass oil can increase skin sensitivity to the sun. Avoid prolonged sun exposure after application.
• Eye Contact: Avoid contact with eyes. If contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Consult with a healthcare professional before using lemon grass repellent if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Children: Use caution when applying to children. Avoid applying to their hands, which they may put in their mouths.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions about making and using lemon grass mosquito repellent:

Q1: How long does homemade lemon grass mosquito repellent last?

A: Homemade lemon grass infusion typically lasts for 1-2 weeks when stored in the refrigerator. The essential oil extraction method yields a more concentrated product that can last for several months when stored properly in a dark glass bottle in a cool, dark place. Adding witch hazel or vodka to the infusion can also extend its shelf life.

Q2: Can I use lemon grass essential oil directly on my skin?

A: No. Essential oils should always be diluted before applying to the skin. Use a carrier oil like coconut oil, jojoba oil, or almond oil. A general dilution ratio is 1-3% essential oil to carrier oil. For example, for a 1% dilution, add 6 drops of essential oil to 1 ounce (30ml) of carrier oil.

Q3: Is lemon grass repellent safe for pets?

A: While lemon grass itself isn’t typically toxic to pets, essential oils can be harmful if ingested. It’s best to consult with a veterinarian before using lemon grass repellent on or around pets. Some pets may also be sensitive to the scent.

Q4: How often should I reapply lemon grass mosquito repellent?

A: Reapply every 2-3 hours, or more frequently if you’re sweating or swimming. The effectiveness of the repellent diminishes over time.

Q5: Can I grow my own lemon grass?

A: Absolutely! Lemon grass is relatively easy to grow in warm climates. You can propagate it from cuttings or purchase starter plants from a nursery. Plant it in well-draining soil in a sunny location.

Q6: Does the type of lemon grass affect the repellent’s effectiveness?

A: While different varieties of lemon grass exist, Cymbopogon citratus is the most common and effective for mosquito repellent due to its high citronellal content.

Q7: Can I combine lemon grass with other essential oils for a more potent repellent?

A: Yes, you can! Combining lemon grass with other mosquito-repelling essential oils like eucalyptus, citronella, lavender, and peppermint can create a more powerful and pleasant-smelling repellent. Just ensure all essential oils are properly diluted in a carrier oil.

Q8: Will lemon grass repellent kill mosquitoes?

A: No, lemon grass repellent primarily repels mosquitoes. It doesn’t typically kill them. Its strong scent masks the odors that attract mosquitoes, making it harder for them to find you.

Q9: Can I use lemon grass tea as a mosquito repellent?

A: While drinking lemon grass tea offers potential health benefits, it won’t provide significant mosquito repellent properties. Topical application of concentrated lemon grass extracts is necessary for effective protection.

Q10: My skin is sensitive. What carrier oil should I use with lemon grass essential oil?

A: For sensitive skin, consider using jojoba oil or sweet almond oil as a carrier oil. These are generally well-tolerated. Always perform a patch test before applying to a larger area.

Q11: Can I spray lemon grass repellent on my plants to keep mosquitoes away?

A: While it might offer some minor repellent effect, spraying lemon grass repellent directly on plants isn’t typically recommended. It can potentially harm delicate foliage. Focus on applying it to your skin and clothing.

Q12: Where can I find good quality lemon grass for making repellent?

A: You can find fresh lemon grass at most Asian grocery stores and some well-stocked supermarkets. Dried lemon grass can be found online and in specialty herb shops. Ensure the lemon grass is fresh and fragrant for the best results.

By following these instructions and heeding the safety precautions, you can create an effective and natural lemon grass mosquito repellent to enjoy the outdoors bite-free. Remember that consistent application and proper storage are crucial for maximizing its effectiveness.