Lemongrass Oil as a Natural Mosquito Repellent — Does It Actually Work?

Yes, lemongrass oil repels mosquitoes. But before you throw out the Odomos, there are a few things worth knowing.

A 2011 study published in the Journal of Vector Ecology tested lemongrass essential oil as a topical repellent and found it provided up to 2.5 hours of protection when applied at sufficient concentration. That's real, measurable protection — not folk wisdom passed down through generations. The compound doing the work is citral, which makes up roughly 65–85% of lemongrass oil and is what gives it that sharp, lemony scent mosquitoes find distinctly unwelcoming.

The catch: concentration matters. The study used a 10% concentration in a carrier oil. Most people who try lemongrass oil and give up after ten minutes are probably applying two drops in too much carrier, or running a diffuser and expecting it to work on the balcony. The oil works, but you have to use it correctly.

How to Use Lemongrass Oil as a Mosquito Repellent?

The most effective method is topical application to exposed skin.

For adults, dilute lemongrass essential oil at 5–10% in a carrier oil. That's 10 to 20 drops of lemongrass per 10ml of coconut or jojoba oil. Coconut oil works well in India because it absorbs quickly without leaving a heavy residue. Apply to exposed areas: wrists, ankles, neck, the backs of your knees. Reapply every 2 hours, especially if you've been sweating.

If you prefer a spray, combine 15 drops of lemongrass oil with 1 teaspoon of rubbing alcohol in a 100ml spray bottle and top up with water. The alcohol helps disperse the oil. Shake before each use and spray on skin and clothing. This is a useful option for outdoor evenings — it dries fast and doesn't feel as heavy as oil.

A diffuser indoors does deter mosquitoes in a small enclosed space. But don't expect it to do much on a balcony or with windows wide open. Use it as a complement to topical application, not a replacement.

Other Uses for Lemongrass Essential Oil

The mosquito angle gets most of the attention during April–June, but lemongrass oil is useful year-round.

For skin: Lemongrass has astringent properties, which makes it particularly good for oily or acne-prone skin. It helps tighten pores and regulate sebum production. Use it diluted at 1–2% (2–4 drops per 10ml carrier) mixed into a face oil. It also has antifungal activity, so diluted in coconut oil it can help with mild fungal skin issues — though anything persistent needs a doctor, not an essential oil.

In a diffuser: Lemongrass is sharper and more energising than lavender, less medicinal than eucalyptus. It's a good choice for mornings or when you want to work without feeling sluggish. It also functions as a simple air freshener without the synthetic sweetness of commercial products. 4–6 drops in an ultrasonic diffuser for 30–60 minutes is enough.

For cleaning: Mix 15–20 drops of lemongrass oil with water and a small amount of white vinegar in a spray bottle. It works reasonably well as a surface cleaner and leaves a clean scent instead of a chemical one. Good for kitchen counters and bathroom surfaces.

What to Watch Out For?

A few things worth knowing before you start using it regularly.

Never apply lemongrass oil directly to skin without diluting it first. Undiluted essential oils can cause irritation and chemical burns. Lemongrass is more likely than most to cause this because of its high citral content, so don't skip the carrier oil.

Lemongrass is photosensitive. Apply it to areas that will be covered, or use it in the evenings. If you apply it to your face and then head out into direct sunlight, you risk discolouration or sunburn-like reactions.

Do a patch test before applying widely, especially if you have sensitive skin. Dilute a small amount, apply to the inside of your wrist, and wait 24 hours before using it more broadly.

Keep it away from children under 2 years old. For kids aged 2–10, dilution should stay at 1% or below, and avoid applying near the face.

Which Lemongrass Oil to Use?

For all of this to work, you need an oil that's actually pure lemongrass and not a fragrance oil cut with synthetic compounds. Cheap essential oils on the market are often adulterated, which means they smell right but don't have the same chemical activity. Look for 100% pure, steam-distilled lemongrass oil.

N'Chant's lemongrass oil is 100% pure, sourced from within India, and steam-distilled with no additives. If you're using it for mosquito protection this season, this is what we'd recommend.

→ Shop Lemongrass Oil

Frequently Asked Questions

Does lemongrass oil actually repel mosquitoes?
Yes. A 2011 study in the Journal of Vector Ecology found lemongrass oil provided up to 2.5 hours of protection at a 10% concentration applied topically to skin. The active compound is citral, which makes up the majority of the oil.

How do I dilute lemongrass oil for skin use?
For use as a mosquito repellent, dilute at 5–10% in a carrier oil (10–20 drops per 10ml). For facial skincare use, stick to 1–2% (2–4 drops per 10ml). Never apply lemongrass oil undiluted directly to skin.

Can I use lemongrass oil in a diffuser every day?
Yes, but you don't need to run it all day. 30–60 minutes at a time, 4–6 drops, is sufficient. Daily use at moderate amounts is fine for most adults.

Is lemongrass oil safe for kids?
Not for children under 2 years old. For children aged 2–10, keep the dilution at 1% or lower and avoid applying near the face. Using a diffuser rather than applying topically is the safer option for younger kids.

How long does the mosquito repellent effect last?
Based on the available research, around 2–2.5 hours when applied at adequate concentration (5–10% in carrier oil) to exposed skin. Reapply after sweating or after that time window has passed.