World Mosquito Day: 5 flowers that keep mosquitoes at bay

mosquito flowers Flowers are definitely a treat to the senses, but some of them have great insect repellent qualities too. In the recent years, no other vector is responsible for causing as many diseases as the mosquito is. While chemical mosquito repellents are usually the norm in most households, some also swear by using natural methods to keep drive out these disease-causing insects. These four flowers have been known to keep mosquitoes at bay. Either sprinkle them liberally on your bed or crush them to apply the sap on your skin. Each is safe enough to be used even on delicate skins.four o clock flower The four o' clock flower: Known by its scientific name Mirabilis jalapa, the marvel of Peru or the four o'clock flower is a common sight in most Indian nurseries. The flower has a tendency to bloom in the late afternoon, around 4pm, every day, giving it it's unique name. Scientific evidence suggests that the flower extracts were known to be effective against An. stephensi, Ae. aegypti and Cx. quinquefasciatus breeds of mosquitoes and killing their larvae. [1]tulsi Tulsi flower: The sacred holy basil or tulsi is a fixture in most Hindu households where its revered for its religious significance and health benefits. The sap of the plant is commonly used for curing skin diseases, but the flowers are equally therapeutic, especially when it comes to warding off mosquitoes. Crush the flowers and rub the fragrant remnants on your skin to keep them from biting you.[2]lavender Lavender flower: As much as the sight and smell of the flower is a treat to the eyes, its mosquito-repelling qualities are quite impressive as well. The oil of the lavender flower is a known mosquito repellent and is a common ingredient in topical creams that ward off mosquitoes. Use either the flower or its oil on your skin. The fragrance is a bonus![3]marigold Marigold: Widely available in India, the marigold flower is used for religious purposes. Apart from being excellent for skin conditions, the extracts of marigold exhibits good mosquito repelling qualities.[4]geranium Geranium flowers have a lemony scent similar to citronella, otherwise known as the mosquito plant. They thrive well in warm climates and have been known to ward mosquitoes off. [3]