Looking for natural mosquito repellents in Nigeria that actually work? If you’re tired of harsh chemical sprays and coils, you’re not alone. Many Nigerian families are turning to natural alternatives to protect themselves from mosquito bites, especially during the rainy season when malaria risk is highest.
This guide shares the most effective DIY mosquito repellent recipes you can make at home using ingredients found in local markets. From lemon grass sprays to neem oil balms, you’ll learn how to create safe, budget-friendly repellents suitable for children, pregnant women, and sensitive skin.
Why Go Natural with Mosquito Repellents?
Mosquito-borne diseases like malaria and dengue are widespread in Nigeria. But conventional repellents often contain chemicals like DEET or pyrethroids that can irritate skin, eyes, and lungs.
Benefits of natural mosquito repellents:
- Safer for babies and pregnant women
- Environmentally friendly
- Affordable and easy to make
- No toxic fumes or harsh smells
According to EcoWatch, many essential oils and herbs have strong mosquito-repelling properties proven in both lab and field studies.
5 Best Natural Mosquito Repellents You Can Make at Home in Nigeria
1. Lemongrass Spray (Ewe Tea in Yoruba)
Ingredients:
- Fresh lemongrass leaves
- Water
- Rubbing alcohol or witch hazel
How to Make:
- Boil lemongrass in water for 15 minutes.
- Let it cool and strain the liquid.
- Mix with a small amount of rubbing alcohol.
- Store in a spray bottle and apply to exposed skin or curtains.
Why It Works: Lemongrass contains citronella oil, which naturally repels mosquitoes.
2. Neem Oil and Coconut Balm
Ingredients:
- Pure neem oil
- Coconut oil
How to Make:
- Mix 1 part neem oil to 2 parts coconut oil.
- Apply a small amount to ankles, arms, and neck.
Tip: Neem has a strong smell. You can add lavender or tea tree oil to soften the scent.
Why It Works: Neem oil is a powerful insect repellent used in Ayurvedic medicine.
3. Eucalyptus and Clove Oil Spray
Ingredients:
- Eucalyptus essential oil
- Clove essential oil
- Witch hazel or clean water
How to Make:
- Mix 10 drops of each oil with 100ml of witch hazel or water.
- Shake well and store in a spray bottle.
- Spray on arms, curtains, or room corners.
Why It Works: Eucalyptus and clove oil are toxic to mosquitoes and safe for human skin when diluted.
4. Orange Peel Mosquito Potpourri
Ingredients:
- Dried orange peels
- Basil leaves (scent leaf)
- Charcoal or small clay burner
How to Use: Burn dried orange peels and basil leaves in a safe burner around 6 p.m. when mosquitoes start to become active.
Why It Works: The smoke repels mosquitoes without toxic fumes.
5. Garlic Water Barrier Spray
Ingredients:
- Garlic cloves
- Water
- Lemon juice
How to Make:
- Crush garlic into warm water.
- Add lemon juice and let steep for 2 hours.
- Spray around windows, doors, or near drainage.
Why It Works: Mosquitoes hate the smell of garlic and citrus.
Safety Tips for Natural Repellents
| Do This | Avoid This |
|---|---|
| Patch test on baby’s skin | Applying undiluted essential oils |
| Store in glass bottles | Using near open flames |
| Label your DIY mixes | Using on newborns without testing |
| Use within 7 days | Reusing spoiled or smelly mixtures |
Where to Get Ingredients in Nigeria
- Markets: Oyingbo (Lagos), Mile 1 (PH), Bodija (Ibadan)
- Health Stores: check verified organic markets
- Online: check verified online organic markets
- External Resource: World Health Organization – Malaria Prevention
Using natural mosquito repellents in Nigeria is not only safer for your family, it’s also more affordable and sustainable. With ingredients you already have in your kitchen or compound, you can prepare herbal sprays, balms, and even mosquito potpourri to keep your home bite-free.
Start experimenting with one recipe today and stay consistent. Pair your natural remedies with mosquito nets, gutter cleaning, and early evening windows closure for best results.
Internal Resources for Full Protection
- Baby Mosquito Repellents Nigeria: Safe Picks for Infants
- Best Mosquito Nets for Baby Cribs in Nigeria
- The Link Between Dirty Gutters and Malaria
Brought to you by Healths.ng – empowering Nigerian families to live safer, healthier lives the natural way.
Leave a Comment