do mosquitoes like cinnamon

Championisme authors

less than a minute read

·

11-10-2024

44

0

Share

Does Cinnamon Keep Mosquitoes Away? Unmasking the Truth

Summer nights are often plagued by pesky mosquitoes, eager to feast on our blood. We've all heard the old wives' tales – garlic, citronella, even Vick's VapoRub – claiming to ward off these buzzing nuisances. But what about cinnamon? Does this fragrant spice really hold the key to a mosquito-free evening?

Let's dive into the science.

The Buzz on Cinnamon:

While cinnamon's warm aroma is pleasing to humans, there's limited scientific evidence to support its effectiveness against mosquitoes. A study published in the Journal of the American Mosquito Control Association by G. M. A. Kumar et al. in 2013 investigated the repellent effects of various essential oils, including cinnamon. The results? Cinnamon oil showed no significant repellent activity against Aedes aegypti, a mosquito species known to transmit dengue fever and Zika virus.

Why the Confusion?

The common belief that cinnamon repels mosquitoes likely stems from its strong aroma and association with other natural insect repellents. Many essential oils, such as citronella, have been proven to deter mosquitoes, leading to the assumption that cinnamon might have similar properties. However, research suggests that cinnamon's scent, while appealing to us, doesn't act as a deterrent to mosquitoes.

Beyond Cinnamon:

While cinnamon might not be your mosquito-fighting hero, there are other natural options proven to be effective:

• Citronella: This oil, extracted from lemongrass, has long been used as a natural insect repellent.
• Lemon Eucalyptus Oil: This oil, often found in commercially available repellents, offers significant protection against mosquitoes.
• DEET: Despite its synthetic nature, DEET remains the gold standard in mosquito repellents, offering the most reliable and long-lasting protection.

Taking Action:

So, the next time you're enjoying a summer evening, don't rely on cinnamon to keep the mosquitoes at bay. Instead, opt for proven repellents like citronella candles or products containing DEET. Remember, protecting yourself from mosquito bites is essential to prevent the spread of diseases.

In Conclusion:

While the aroma of cinnamon may be pleasing, it doesn't seem to deter mosquitoes. Instead, focus on utilizing proven natural or synthetic repellents for effective mosquito control. Stay safe, and enjoy your summer nights!