5 Shocking Truths: Does Lemongrass REALLY Repel Mosquitoes? (Latest Research)
The quest for a natural, effective mosquito repellent is a never-ending battle for homeowners and outdoor enthusiasts. As of December 2025, one of the most popular and fragrant contenders in this natural arsenal is lemongrass, a tropical grass known for its bright, citrusy scent. But does this aromatic herb truly offer a reliable shield against biting insects, or is it just a pleasantly smelling myth?
The short answer is a definitive "Yes," but with a major caveat: the method of application is everything. Modern scientific studies confirm that the concentrated essential oil of the lemongrass plant, particularly *Cymbopogon citratus*, is a potent mosquito deterrent, often rivaling synthetic alternatives, but simply growing the plant in your backyard may not be enough to protect you.
The Scientific Proof: How Lemongrass Oil Blocks Mosquitoes
The effectiveness of lemongrass as a natural repellent is not based on folklore; it’s rooted deeply in its unique chemical composition. Mosquitoes, which are notorious carriers of diseases like Dengue, Zika, and Malaria, are primarily attracted to the carbon dioxide and specific volatile compounds emitted by the human body. The strong, pungent aroma of lemongrass works by disrupting the mosquitoes' scent receptors, effectively masking the human odor that attracts them.
Key Active Compounds and Entities at Work
The true power of the lemongrass plant lies in a handful of organic chemical compounds, which are crucial for establishing its topical authority as a repellent. These compounds are concentrated in the essential oil and are the reason for its strong, lemon-like fragrance:
- Citral (Geranial and Neral): This is the primary active ingredient in lemongrass (*Cymbopogon citratus*) essential oil, often making up 70–85% of its composition. Citral is a mixture of two aldehyde monoterpenes: Geranial (alpha-citral) and Neral (beta-citral). These compounds are highly effective at confusing and deterring mosquitoes.
- Geraniol: Another key component, Geraniol, is a potent alcohol monoterpene that provides a rose-like scent and has been proven to deter various insects, including mosquitoes.
- Citronellol: While less dominant than Citral, this compound also contributes significantly to the repellent properties and is the main component of its close relative, Citronella oil.
This high concentration of active monoterpenes is what gives lemongrass oil its insect-repelling prowess. In a 2015 study, lemongrass essential oil applied to the skin offered a repellency rate of approximately 74%, which was higher than the synthetic repellent IR3535, though lower than the gold standard, DEET.
The Great Debate: Citronella vs. Lemongrass
It is nearly impossible to discuss lemongrass without mentioning its famous cousin, citronella. The confusion is understandable because they are closely related. Both are species of the *Cymbopogon* genus, but they are distinct plants with slightly different chemical profiles.
The plant commonly referred to as Citronella Grass (*Cymbopogon nardus* or *Cymbopogon winterianus*) is the source of commercial citronella oil, which is ubiquitous in candles and sprays. However, the plant commonly known as Lemongrass (*Cymbopogon citratus*) is often considered superior by some experts due to its incredibly high concentration of Citral.
Ultimately, both are effective, with their essential oils containing overlapping active compounds. The key takeaway for consumers is that any product containing a high concentration of the active ingredients—Citral, Citronellal, or Geraniol—will be an effective natural deterrent.
3 Critical Ways to Use Lemongrass for Maximum Efficacy
Knowing that the essential oil is the potent factor, the method of application becomes the most important consideration for effective mosquito control. Simply growing the plant is the least effective method.
1. Topical Essential Oil Spray or Lotion (Highest Efficacy)
This is the most scientifically proven and effective method. Because pure essential oil is too strong to be applied directly to the skin, it must be diluted with a carrier oil, such as coconut, soybean, or almond oil.
- DIY Recipe: A safe and effective concentration is typically 5-10% lemongrass essential oil mixed with a carrier oil. For example, 1 teaspoon of lemongrass oil mixed into 10-20 teaspoons of a carrier oil.
- Duration of Protection: When applied topically, the protection offered by lemongrass oil is limited. Studies indicate that it is an effective repellent for up to three hours before needing reapplication. This is a critical factor when comparing it to long-lasting synthetic repellents like DEET.
2. Diffusing and Vaporizing (Area Protection)
Using a diffuser or burning a lemongrass-based candle can provide a protective perimeter in a small, enclosed outdoor area, such as a patio or balcony. The heat from candles or the ultrasonic action of a diffuser releases the volatile Citral compounds into the air, creating a scent barrier. However, this method is less reliable than topical application, as the wind can easily disperse the repellent molecules. For maximum effect, use multiple sources around the perimeter.
3. Planting Lemongrass Grass (Least Efficacy)
A common myth is that planting a few clumps of *Cymbopogon* grass around your yard will solve your mosquito problem. While the plant itself contains the repellent oil, the concentration of the active compounds released into the air by the intact leaves is generally too low to create a meaningful protective barrier over a large area.
To get any repellent benefit from the plant itself, you would need to crush or rub the leaves to manually release the concentrated essential oils. Therefore, while planting lemongrass is a beautiful and fragrant addition to your garden, it should be seen as a supplementary measure, not a primary defense.
Lemongrass as a Safer, Eco-Conscious Alternative
For those concerned about the environmental impact and potential toxicity of synthetic chemicals like DEET, lemongrass oil presents an excellent, eco-friendly alternative. It is a natural product that breaks down quickly in the environment and is generally considered safe for use around children and pets when properly diluted.
Recent research is continually exploring ways to enhance the efficacy of lemongrass oil, often by combining it with other natural oils like ylang-ylang or star anise to create a synergistic effect that extends the duration of protection. This ongoing innovation confirms lemongrass's status not as a trend, but as a scientifically valid and sustainable tool in the global fight against mosquitoes.
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