Essential oils against mosquitoes – what we recommend (and don't)

In nature, plants have their own way of saying no. Through scents. Volatile, sometimes almost imperceptible molecules that tell insects: you don't belong here. For us at Remoair, it's a fascinating language – and a source of inspiration when we create our own mosquito repellent products.

Essential oils are part of this conversation between plant and world. But how well do they actually work against mosquitoes? Which ones have scientific backing – and which ones mostly smell like wishful thinking?

Here we share our view on the oils we have chosen to use, why we combine them with Citrepel®, and which ones we have decided to leave out.

The plants' defense became our inspiration

We believe that scent is communication. When a lemon eucalyptus releases its fresh, cool aroma, it does so not for our sake – but to repel insects. The same applies to lavender, rosemary, thyme. It's the plants' own way of protecting themselves.

What fascinates us is how these scents can simultaneously be perceived as calming, fresh or sensual by us humans. That's where we see the potential: to create scent experiences that work – both emotionally and practically.

But not all plant scents are effective against mosquitoes, and not all work in a scented candle or a spray. We have tested, smelled, read studies – and chosen with care.

What does research say about essential oils against mosquitoes?

There are a number of oils that reappear in studies as more or less effective:

• Citronella – the most famous. Provides protection for up to 30 minutes, but is volatile and requires high concentration.
• Lavender – mild and soothing, but also slightly repellent to some mosquito species. Effect approximately 20–30 min.
• Lemon Eucalyptus – the most effective plant-based oil. Citrepel®, which provides up to 6 hours of protection, is extracted from it.
• Patchouli – earthy and deep, with a certain mosquito-repellent reputation. Especially in combination with other oils.
• Thyme and tea tree – strong, medicinal scents with some effect, but difficult to use in the home due to the sharpness of the scent.

So we see that essential oils have potential – but often with short duration and dependent on the environment. That's why we don't settle for them as a sole ingredient.

Our favorites – and why we combine them with Citrepel®

When we created our mosquito candles and sprays, we chose oils that work both aromatically and functionally. Our favorites:

• Lavender – for its calming character and subtle effectiveness.
• Patchouli – to ground the scent in something deep, green and sensual.
• Eucalyptus – especially as a base for Citrepel®, our main ingredient.

Citrepel® (PMD) is a plant-based substance extracted from lemon eucalyptus, and has been shown to provide up to 6 hours of protection against mosquitoes, both indoors and outdoors [Source: ECHA, 2022]. For us, it became an obvious component – combining the plant's intelligence with real functionality.

We never use synthetic fragrances or preservatives in our candles and sprays. Everything is plant-based, thoroughly tested and selected with care for both effect and aesthetics.

Scents we avoid – and why

We avoid scents that:

• Dominate the room – strong citrus notes or menthol that feel more medicinal than sensory
• Lack effect – floral oils like jasmine or ylang-ylang, which have no documented mosquito-repelling effect
• Disappear too quickly – some light herbs smell beautiful for a moment, but leave no trace

For us, mosquito protection is never just a function – it's an extension of a way of living, smelling and being in a room. It should feel right, smell right – and actually work.