Title: 10 Unconventional Ways to Keep Mosquitoes Away from You
Mosquito bites can be quite annoying, not just because of the itchiness they cause but also due to the diseases they sometimes carry like malaria and dengue fever. While most people resort to using bug sprays or staying indoors as a preventive measure against these pesky insects, there are other science-backed ways that can effectively keep mosquitoes at bay.
In an interesting quiz by Life Kit, Sammy Ramsey, a professor of entomology at the University of Colorado, Boulder and Brian Byrd, a professor of environmental health sciences at Western Carolina University share some surprising tactics to prevent mosquito bites. Here are ten unconventional ways you can try:
1. Use Fans: Mosquitoes find it difficult to fly in windy conditions. Therefore, using fans both indoors and outdoors can help keep them away from you. 2. Wear Light Colored Clothing: Dark colors attract mosquitoes more than light ones. So, opt for lighter shades when stepping outside. 3. Use Garlic: Yes, garlic! Studies have shown that consuming garlic or applying it topically can repel mosquitoes due to the smell it emits. 4. Plant Mosquito Repellent Plants: Certain plants like lemon balm, lavender, and marigolds release natural oils that deter mosquitoes from coming near you. 5. Use Dry Ice Traps: Carbon dioxide attracts mosquitoes. By placing dry ice in a container with water, you can create a trap for these insects away from your personal space. 6. Avoid Sweating: Mosquitoes are attracted to lactic acid which is released when we sweat. So, try not to exert yourself too much during outdoor activities. 7. Use Bats and Birds as Natural Predators: Both bats and birds feed on mosquitoes making them natural allies in your fight against these pests. 8. Use Mosquito Repellent Bracelets: These bracelets release a chemical called DEET which repels mosquitoes effectively. 9. Drink Beer: A study found that people who drank beer were less likely to be bitten by mosquitoes than those who didn't. The exact reason behind this phenomenon is still unknown. 10. Use Citronella Candles: These candles emit a smell that repels mosquitoes, making them an excellent addition to your outdoor gatherings.
These unconventional methods might not guarantee 100% protection against mosquito bites but they certainly provide interesting alternatives to traditional bug sprays and staying indoors. So next time you're planning a picnic or camping trip, consider giving some of these tactics a try!
Source: [Original Article](https://www.npr.org/2025/07/08/nx-s1-5429661/mosquito-bites-prevent-tips) #want
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