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Mosquitoes are extremely unpleasant insects, and their bite, besides causing discomfort and leaving marks on the skin, can transmit dozens of diseases dangerous to humans.
In fact, there are more than 3500 species of mosquitoes, but only about 100 to 200 species are considered vectors of various diseases. Mosquitoes transmit different types of diseases to more than 700 million people annually in Africa, South America, Central America, Mexico, Russia, and much of Asia.
The seasons when mosquitoes are most active are usually summer and early autumn. This is due to the warm temperatures and more humid conditions, which are suitable for their reproduction and development.
Both male and female mosquitoes feed on nectar and plant sap, but did you know that only female mosquitoes bite? This is because they need protein from our blood to produce their eggs. Studies reveal that mosquitoes can drink blood up to 3 times their own body weight.
What attracts mosquitoes to your body?
When a mosquito bites you, it actually pierces your skin with the help of a special mouth organ (proboscis) in order to suck your blood. While the mosquito feeds, it injects saliva into your skin. Your body reacts to the saliva, which leads to swelling and itching.
Some people are mosquito magnets - they are more likely to be bitten than others. Why is that?
A number of factors make you more attractive to insects - your blood type, body temperature, and how much ammonia your body releases in its sweat. Studies show that some mosquito species prefer blood type O and AB more than others. For example, the dangerous Asian tiger mosquito - Aedes albopictus - prefers this blood type, while type AB attracts the malaria mosquito - Anopheles gambiae.
Why do mosquitoes bite men more and – women less?
There are various theories and factors that may play a role in this phenomenon, but there is no clear-cut answer as to why mosquitoes prefer men.
One theory links mosquito preferences to differences in metabolism and body chemistry between men and women. For example, men typically produce more ammonia, which is more attractive to mosquitoes. Differences in body temperature and the chemical composition of sweat can also affect mosquito preferences.
Protecting yourself from mosquitoes
Mosquito repellents can protect you from many unwanted mosquito bites during summer. Some of the most effective essential oils that will repel insects include:
Citronella
Citronella is a popular ingredient in creating natural mosquito repellents, as well as candles for this purpose. You may not know that citronella is a grass that you can plant in your yard or in a pot on your terrace. This way you'll deal with mosquitoes even more effectively.
Most citronella products are made with the aromatic oil that the plant releases.
Lavender
Lavender's scent helps in the fight against mosquitoes, and studies show that the essential oil repels most species for six to eight hours.
Tea tree
This oil is known for its antiseptic and antifungal properties. It can be used to repel insects and to soothe bites.
Marigold
Although it may not be the first thing that comes to mind when it comes to mosquito repellent, marigold has several insecticidal components, perfect for use in oil or spray against mosquitoes. Like other insect-repelling plants, the scent of marigold flowers can help protect against insects.
Lemon balm
Similar in scent to citronella, lemon balm repels mosquitoes with its strong smell, which is why it's often added to insect sprays and oils.
Rosemary
Rosemary oil is known for its antiseptic and antimicrobial properties and successfully drives away unwanted mosquitoes.
One effective way to protect yourself from mosquitoes is Raw Nature's natural body balm, which repels insects through the power of essential oils and natural ingredients.
The blend of vegan ingredients - citronella, rosemary, cedar, shea and manuka - repels insects while smelling pleasant for you and those around you. Awards from the Beauty Shortlist Wellbeing Awards 2022, Organic Beauty Award 2021 and 2022, Eco Choice 2021, and Clean + Conscious Awards 2021 prove its effectiveness against unwanted mosquitoes.
Long, light-colored clothing is preferable
Mosquitoes are more active at night, so it's a good idea to wear long trousers and sleeves during these hours. They also target dark and contrasting colors, so avoid those.
Choose your clothing fabrics carefully
Mosquitoes have a hard time getting through tightly woven fabrics. While cotton and linen usually aren't good „armor“ against mosquitoes, many synthetic fibers – especially those in sportswear - tend to protect you from insects. Any garment that offers sun protection also has a tight enough weave to prevent mosquito bites.
Avoid walks near bodies of water
Mosquitoes breed in humid environments, so it's a good idea to avoid places with standing water – lakes, marshes, etc.
