Six Best Essential Oils For Mosquito Bites

I don’t only write a cozy mystery series set in an herbal apothecary, I use herbs, herbal remedies and essential oils in my real life. I always try to find a natural way to resolve issues first. And that includes itchy mosquito bites.

I live in North Carolina, and in the summer it can get humid and balmy, the perfect environment for mosquitos. I also live in a cul-de-sac with a beautiful lake which, guess what? Mosquitos also love. In the summer time, if I step outside my house with bare legs and arms, I’m immediately attacked by mosquitos.

I’ve tried some drugstore-purchased itch remedies and they didn’t work. So it’s with trial and error that I share this list with you all. (I’m including images and Amazon buy links to my favorite go-to brands. Just click on the photograph.) I’m sharing essential oils that have been scientifically proven to not only help repel mosquitos but soothe the inflammation and itchiness normally associated with their annoying bites.

Using Essential Oils

To use essential oils for mosquito bites, best practices recommend you dilute them in a carrier oil (such as coconut or almond oil) before applying to the affected area. A safe dilution ratio is typically 1-3 drops of essential oil per teaspoon of carrier oil. You can also add a few drops of essential oil to a cool compress or mix them into a soothing lotion or gel for easy application.

I personally just add drops (neat no chaser) onto the itchy area, and gently rub in until the itchiness stops. There’s no set amount of drops to recommend as all bites are different. I suggest continuing to apply drops until the itchiness stops.

1. Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil, renowned for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, is highly effective in soothing mosquito bites. It helps reduce inflammation and prevents infection, promoting faster healing. Research supports its use in dermatological conditions, highlighting its ability to calm irritated skin.

The smell is strong and not a favorite of mine, but the the medicinal benefits of tree oil can’t be beat. It’s a staple in my herbal remedy kit and it works well. Can be used directly on the skin. Ingesting tea tree oil can be toxic to humans and pets.

2. Lavender Oil

Lavender oil’s calming scent and anti-inflammatory properties make it ideal for relieving itchiness and reducing swelling caused by mosquito bites. It not only soothes the skin but also aids in healing, making it a popular choice in natural skincare.

Lavender is gentle enough for a baby’s skin. I don’t find that it calms itchiness as fast and as aggressively as always needed but I would use this option for babies and small children. It does work but takes some time to work. And of course, it smells lovely. I often fragrance my hair with lavender and use it as a skin toner.

3. Peppermint Oil

Peppermint oil provides a cooling sensation that can alleviate the itching and discomfort of mosquito bites. Its anti-inflammatory properties help reduce swelling, while its refreshing aroma provides relief.

I really like peppermint oil for mosquito bites. It works fast and the combined cooling and numbing effect feels really good on the skin, especially when it’s hot outside. I put it directly on the mosquito bite without blending. If your itchiness is very aggressive try using lemon eucalyptus oil for inflammation, and then follow up with peppermint for the itchiness. Sometimes a one-two punch is required. Also, the smell is good but strong. Wash your hands with this one because it will make you tear up if you touch any skin on your face or eyes.

4. Eucalyptus Oil

Eucalyptus oil contains compounds like eucalyptol that offer anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. It can help reduce the itchiness and pain associated with mosquito bites, providing relief without harsh chemicals.

This is another really strong essential oil that works fast. It can be a bit caustic, so I’d suggest blending with just the tiniest bit of oil (coconut, olive, etc.) if you have sensitive skin. As with all essential oil, wash your hands well after you use this oil. Ingesting eucalyptus oil is toxic to humans and dogs.

5. Lemon Eucalyptus Oil

If you thought lemon eucalyptus oils was a bend of lemon and eucalyptus, don’t worry you are not alone! I thought that for awhile until I looked up the oil for it’s benefits and discovered it’s actually from the Corymbia citriodora, commonly known as the lemon-scented gum tree, and a tree native to Australia.

This oil contains 80% citronellal and p-methane-3,8-diol (PMD). PMD is recommended by the CDC as an effective mosquito repellent comparable to DEET. Scientific research, such as studies in the New England Journal of Medicine, confirm both citronellal and PMD have significant repellent capabilities against mosquitoes. Which is a perk because it’s also helpful in decreasing inflammation and itchiness. And one I use often.

6. Lemongrass

Lemongrass oil also contains citronellal. You’ll often find candles, sprays and other products for sale with citronella. However, the essential oil is distilled from the lemongrass plant. It emits a strong, citrusy scent that masks human odors and interferes with mosquitoes’ ability to detect and locate hosts.

It smells gloriously bright and juicy like lemons and sunshine! And I mix it with oil and fragrance my scalp and hair with it just because of the scent. It lifts moods too, but it also helps with the itchiness mosquito bites. Lots to love about lemongrass.

Precautions

While essential oils are generally safe when used properly, it’s important to perform a patch test before applying them widely to ensure you don’t have an allergic reaction. Avoid using essential oils near the eyes, mucous membranes, or on broken or irritated skin. If you have sensitive skin or are pregnant, consult a healthcare professional before using essential oils.

And I know from personal experience – never put lemongrass on your face. I did it once many, many years ago and my skin erupted into a million tiny bumps that took three days to go away. I wouldn’t suggest placing on your face if with blending. Lesson learned.

All of the essential oils on this list have worked for me, but I’m such an essential oil lover that I’ll try any oil on an itchy mosquito bite in a pinch. I find that most essential oils have some therapeutic benefit when it comes to itchiness. Cedar wood, sandalwood, even sweet orange have worked. But that’s just me being experimental and my own guinea pig.

I remember when I could only find essential oils at my local Whole Foods, or had to order them online. But these days almost every drugstore and grocery store has them. I have my favorite brands, and try to purchase organic versions when necessary but I’ve found most essential oils on the market are effective.

By harnessing the power of nature, essential oils offer a holistic approach to skincare, ensuring you can enjoy the outdoors with peace of mind and comfort. Find me on my socials @EsmeAddisionAuthor on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook and let me know which essential oils work best for you!