Let’s face it—bugs exist. They are living organisms that also need food and shelter. These may be available in our homes, so they visit us often or even become housemates. Unfortunately, these uninvited guests secretly eat a share of our food, are annoying, scary, and even bite. The bites of these bugs may cause redness, swelling, itchiness, and irritation to the skin.
In worst cases, their bites may trigger severe allergic reactions like anaphylaxis, which may be lethal, especially if not treated with proper first aid. Furthermore, these bugs may transmit deadly diseases through their bodies and bites. Such undesired effects may be avoided if these bugs cannot enter our homes in the first place. Fortunately, this may be possible with the help of the house plants below, which are said to be effective in repelling bugs.
List of Top Houseplants That Repel Bugs
Multiple resources like Electodry list the following houseplants that may help repel bugs. This is possible because these contain certain substances and compounds. One of their effects is the possibility of affecting bugs’ sensors. As a result, the bugs cannot detect their target, making them stay away from them. These plants may be placed anywhere in the house and may be best put near possible entrances and hideouts of bugs.
Basil as a Houseplant that Repels Bugs
Metode lists the following compounds found in basil that make it an effective house plant against bugs:
- Citronella
- Limonene
- Nerolidol
- Estragole
The last compound is also said to be responsible for the basil’s perfume-like and aromatic scent when its leaves are rubbed.
Bugs That Basil May Keep Away
Basil is said to be effective in keeping the following bugs away:
- Flies
- Mosquitoes
These bugs are said to be unable to recognise a meal when the abovementioned compounds interrupt basil plants’ heat and carbon dioxide sensors.
Using Basil as a Houseplant to Keep Bugs Away
A basil plant may be placed near the windowsills and terrace. Its leaves may also be mixed with a carrier oil to produce basil oil, which can be applied to the skin. In doing so, we may be able to keep the bugs away.
Risk of Using Basil as a Houseplant to Keep Bugs Away
WebMD mentions that basil oil applied to the skin may be safe in concentrations of up to 6% for 12 weeks. However, the use of related holy basil may be taken with precautions, especially for people with mint allergies (Lamiaceae plant family).
Mint as a Houseplant that Repels Bugs
According to eHow, menthol is the active ingredient in the leaves of the mint plant. It has biocidal properties and is effective in controlling bugs. This ingredient is present in many mints, such as the Spearmint and peppermint plants, which may be the most commonly used bug repellent.
Bugs That Mint May Keep Away
The same source said mints are commonly used to keep mosquitoes and fleas away. They also mentioned that other types of mints may be effective in repelling different types of non-bug animals, like ticks.
Using Mint as a Houseplant to Keep Bugs Away
A mint plant may be placed in pots in the kitchen or around the doorways. According to Mosquito Magnet, its oil (if mixed according to a suggested formula) may also be used to relieve itches from bug bites.
Risks of Using Mint as a Houseplant to Keep Bugs Away
This study about Peppermint and its oil stated that a percentage of the population:
- Were allergic to peppermint or its oil.
- Experienced acute dermal toxicity who were sensitive to it.
- Acquired skin irritation.
- Suffered from various health issues.
Such health issues include comatose, pulmonary oedema, acute lung injury, and allergies.
Catnip as a Houseplant That Repels Bugs
Catnip produces iridoids that contain arthropod-repellent effects, which makes it another useful bug-repellent.
Bugs that Catnip May Keep Away
One article in Science News detailed a study that concluded catnips may be used to repel mosquitoes and cockroaches. They may even be more effective than diethyl-m-toluamide (DEET), the most common active ingredient in many commercially available bug repellents.
Using Catnip as a Houseplant to Keep Bugs Away
For 30 minutes of freedom from bugs, Tyrant Farms instructs its readers to rub some fresh catnip leaves between their hands and apply them to the skin. If this time frame is too short, the leaves of this house plant may be re-applied as necessary.
Risks of Using Catnip as a Houseplant to Keep Bugs Away
The results of this study show that catnip caused slight irritation to the subjects, but it did not result in dermal or inhalation toxicity.
Chrysanthemums as a Houseplant that Repels Bugs
Chrysanthemums contain a neurotoxin called Pyrethrin that kills bugs, as stated in Modern Pest.
This compound excites a bug’s nervous system, paralyzing it and causing death. For example, if a bug touches or eats the leaves of a Chrysanthemum plant, this may happen.
Bugs that Chrysanthemums May Keep Away
This plant may be effective in keeping the following bugs away according to the same source and other websites:
- Mosquitoes.
- Beetles.
- Ants.
- Fleas.
This list also includes ticks, a non-bug pest that makes Chrysanthemums a good insect-repellent option, especially for gardeners.
Using Chrysanthemums as a Houseplant to Keep Bugs Away
La Jolla outlines the following steps in turning this plant into dust:
- Picking full Chrysanthemum flowers (not wilt).
- Drying the flowers in a place with good circulation.
- Grinding them into a fine powder.
The powder may then be sprinkled around areas of the house and even on plants to prevent bugs.
Risks of Using Chrysanthemums as a Houseplant to Keep Bugs Away
A study released by Science Direct adds Chrysanthemums as among the many irritants that may cause acute and chronic dermatitis.
Lavender as a Houseplant that Repels Bugs
This plant contains linalool, which has proven antimicrobial and insect-repellent properties, as stated in this article. These properties make lavender another option for preventing bugs from coming inside the house. The same compound is attributed to the serene and floral scent of lavender.
Bugs That Lavender may keep Away
A few studies, like the one mentioned in Insect Cop, state that lavender was found to be effective against:
- Mosquitoes.
- Fleas.
- Ants.
Lavender is also a good repellent against other pests, such as flies, ticks, moths, and mice.
Using Lavender as a Houseplant to Keep Bugs Away
The same website states that this plant may be a good bug repellent by:
- Add 1-2 drops of its oil to an ounce of carrier oil.
- Use the mixture as a daily moisturizer to keep bugs away from you.
Another method is to have a bug-repellent body wash instead by mixing 10-15 drops of lavender oil with a liquid soap bar. The dried leaves of this house plant can also be turned into sachets that can be put in any part of the house to keep bugs away and to have an air freshener.
Risks of Using Lavender as a Houseplant to Keep Bugs Away
This site discourages applying this house plant’s concentrated oil directly on the skin. It may be due to some reports of people experiencing redness and itching after coming in contact with lavender.
Geranium as a Houseplant That Repels Bugs
This website says that Geranium is proven to repel bugs as it contains a chemical called geraniol. It is included in almost every essential oil and is an ingredient of a commercially available bug spray.
Bugs That Geranium May Keep Away
In the Journal of Vector Ecology, geraniol was studied to effectively repel mosquitoes indoors and outdoors. Bed bug insiders say that this effect may be similar to that of bed bugs.
Using Geranium as a Houseplant to Keep Bugs Away
A pot of geranium plants may be put inside areas of the house, like the bedroom. This plant will give off a scent that keeps mosquitoes and bed bugs away.
Risks of Using Geranium as a Houseplant to Keep Bugs Away
This plant council says it is “not known” to be toxic. However, like any other plant, its diluted oil may cause some users a rash or burning sensation.
Where to Find Houseplants That Keep Bugs Away?
Fortunately, different garden centres in Perth offer the seeds and potted plants of the above-mentioned bug-repellent plants. One is Guilford Garden Centre, which delivers to the Perth metro area. At the same time, various suppliers and companies also offer the ready-to-use oils of these bug-repellent plants, which may be bought online.
Common Bugs in Perth
Perth Pest Control lists the following common bugs that are considered pests:
- Ants.
- Bed bugs.
- Mosquitoes.
- Cockroaches.
- Fleas.
- Lawn beetles.
All of these bugs may have caused different problems for homeowners.
Why Do We Need to Keep Bugs Away?
Aside from being a nuisance, these bugs have been reported to cause the following problems, which may be considered unhealthy and unsafe for humans.
Food Poisoning
As per ABC News’ post, bugs produce bacteria, viruses, and toxins. Such may be transferred to our food, which may lead to poisoning. It may be identified with the following common symptoms:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Stomach cramps
- Diarrhoea
- Headache
- Fever
Unless the food poisoning is severe and fatal, these symptoms may be felt for a while. It may vary depending on the bug that contaminated the food consumed by a human.
Food Contamination
The same source lists the following food that bugs may contaminate:
- Starchy food
- Vegetables
- Meat
- Fish
- Milk
- Fruit juice
- Drinking water
- Seafood
This list of food may be contaminated with different bacteria and viruses depending on the bug.
Symptoms of Bugs Bite
The bites of these bugs have been reported to cause the following effects on the skin:
- Redness
- Itchiness
- Swelling
- Pain
These effects may last hours to days, especially if not treated with first aid correctly. A severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) may also occur in people who have allergies to their bites, and it may be life-threatening. Such may also be provided with a first aid response by a first aider who may have enrolled in a first aid course in 123C Colin St West Perth 6005.
Common Diseases Carried by Bugs
Aside from treatable to deadly allergic reactions, the bites of these bugs may also cause transmission of disease from one person to another. Most of these bugs are known to carry different types of diseases that may impose a risk to someone’s health and life.
Diseases Transmitted by Mosquitoes
Better Health mentions the following disease a mosquito may pass on to people through their bites:
- Murray Valley encephalitis
- Ross River
- Barmah Forest
- Dengue
These diseases may cause a person to feel ill or even die in severe cases.
Diseases Transmitted by Cockroaches
According to Canberra Pest Control, cockroaches may transfer the following infections and diseases:
- Salmonellosis
- Campylobacteriosis
- Listeriosis
- E. coli infections
- Typhoid fever
- Cholera
- Dysentery
- Leprosy
- Plague
- Asthma
These may be transmitted through this bug’s droppings, saliva, and body.
Diseases Transmitted By Fleas
This post states that fleas transmit tapeworm larvae and the disease murine typhus. It may be identified with the following minor symptoms:
- Fever.
- Headache.
- Chills.
- Muscle pain.
- Lack of appetite.
- Skin rash.
Significant symptoms, on the other hand, include cough, eye infection, and jaundice. If left untreated, this disease may affect the Central Nervous System, causing confusion, seizures, and lethargy.
Conclusion
Certain plants, such as Basil, Mint, Catnip, Chrysanthemums, and Lavender, keep bugs away. These may be planted in pots and put in different areas of the house to prevent bugs from getting inside. At the same time, the diluted oils of these house plants may be mixed with a moisturizer and a body wash to produce a bug-repellent that may be applied to the skin with precautions. In doing so, the bugs and their bites may be avoided, triggering minor to severe allergic reactions and even transmitting diseases.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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What are the best houseplants that repel bugs?
Some of the most effective houseplants that repel bugs include basil, mint, catnip, chrysanthemums, lavender, and geranium. These natural insect repellent plants release scents and compounds that help keep mosquitoes, flies, fleas, and even cockroaches away.
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How do indoor plants help with pest control?
Indoor plants for pest control work by releasing natural oils and chemicals that bugs dislike. For example, basil contains citronella and limonene, while mint contains menthol. These make it harder for bugs to detect people and pets as targets, keeping them away naturally.
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Are there pet-safe bug repellent plants?
Yes, some pet-safe bug repellent plants include basil and catnip. However, plants like mint, chrysanthemums, and geraniums may cause irritation or toxicity in pets if eaten. Always check safety guidelines before choosing plants for a home with cats or dogs.
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Where should I place natural insect repellent plants in my home?
Place houseplants that repel bugs near doors, windowsills, balconies, and kitchens — anywhere bugs might enter. You can also use dried leaves or oils from these plants as natural indoor pest control.
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Can I use these plants as skin repellents?
Yes, some natural insect repellent plants like basil, lavender, and catnip can be made into oils and applied to the skin (when properly diluted with a carrier oil). However, some people may experience irritation, so always test first or consult safety guidelines.
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Do houseplants that repel bugs really work in Australia?
Yes, many households in Australia use indoor plants for pest control. While they may not replace all bug sprays, these natural insect repellent plants can significantly reduce mosquitoes, flies, and other common pests inside the home.