How to Make Catnip Mosquito Spray

Mosquitoes hate catnip.

Catnip is not just an aphrodisiac for cats. You also can use it to make a natural mosquito repellent. It might not be a sensible spray to use if you are afraid of cats but it will deter mosquitoes and other irritating flying insects. Unlike commercial repellents and some homemade remedies, such as garlic spray, catnip mosquito spray has a pleasant minty scent.

Things You'll Need

• Fresh catnip leaves
• Scissors
• Bowl
• Jug
• Pan
• Sieve
• Spray bottle

Instructions

1. Collect and roughly chop one or two handfuls of fresh catnip leaves and put in a bowl.

2. Bring a pint of water to the boil and pour over the catnip leaves. Leave to soak for a few hours or overnight to make a strong catnip tea.

3. Strain the catnip tea through a sieve, catching the liquid in a jug.

4. Pour the liquid into a spray bottle.

5. Spray the infusion onto your clothes to repel mosquitoes. Although catnip spray is gentle it can cause mild skin irritation if you are sensitive, so avoid applying directly to your body.

Tips & Warnings

• Soak the catnip leaves in cold vinegar rather than hot water to make a longer lasting spray.

• If you don't have fresh catnip leaves, use catnip essential oil. It works neat or mixed with a carrier oil.

References

• National Center forBiotechnology Information :Efficacy and Safety of Catnip (Nepeta cataria) as a Novel Filth Fly Repellent
• Mother Earth News: Outsmarting Mosquitoes