Does Eucalyptus Repel Bugs? Yes! Here’s How to Use It

While some people wait all year for the spring and summer to come around, others aren’t as excited. Although this time of year comes with beach trips, picnics, and sunshine, it also means that insects will reemerge. Creatures like mosquitos, fruit flies, ticks, and aphids can be difficult and stressful to deal with. However, before you go nuclear and break out the pesticides, there are several methods of control that are much more natural. In fact, you might be surprised to learn that eucalyptus is a powerful insect repellent. Let’s explore some ways you can use eucalyptus to keep insects far away from you this season and discuss why this plant is so effective at this job.

Why Is Eucalyptus an Effective Insect Repellent?

There are several plants that have the ability to naturally repel insects and the reasons why vary. Some plants such as mint, lavender, and lemongrass have overpowering scents that dysregulate the senses of many animals. Insects in particular can be sensitive to these scents. Certain insects will experience trouble breathing while others will lose their sense of direction, which can be especially troubling during flight. Depending on the scent and potency, it may even result in death. This is why essential oils can be powerful when used throughout the yard and the home. 

On the other hand, certain plants contain natural compounds known to deter insects. For example, vetiver grass contains a compound called nootkatone which is especially effective in deterring termites. According to a journal authored by BC Zhu et al., “Vetiver oil decreased termite tunneling activity at concentrations as low as 5 micrograms/g sand. Tunneling and paper consumption were not observed when vetiver oil concentrations were higher than 25 micrograms/g sand.” 

The effect that eucalyptus has on insects stems from both its powerful scent and composition. According to an article authored by Sheikh et al., “Up to 90% of Eucalyptus essential oil contains aromatic component eucalyptol or 1,8-cineole. Euclyptol is a water insoluble compound but soluble in ether, ethanol, and chloroform. It is reported as an insect repellent, insecticide, mosquito larvicide, ovipositional repellent as well as inhibitor acetylcholinesterase activity.” In addition to this compound, the strong scent eucalyptus emanates can interfere with their ability to orient themselves. This scent is effective on its own, but it can be combined with other repellents such as citronella essential oil to create especially potent repellents.

How You Can Use Eucalyptus to Repel Insects

There are several ways this plant can be used to repel pesky insects around your home. However, the most popular method of using eucalyptus as an insect repellent is as an essential oil. Mix water, vinegar, and a few drops of eucalyptus essential oil and mix well. Then fill a spray bottle with this mixture and mist areas where you notice pests appear. Arthropods such as cockroaches, flies, wasps, mosquitos, ants, and spiders will all actively avoid areas where this scent is present.

This mixture is safe for humans and plants, and you can spray it both indoors and outdoors. However, it is important to note that house pets such as dogs and cats may be sensitive to the strong smell of this oil. It is also toxic if ingested, so take care to store it properly after use. Keeping a bundle of eucalyptus or a live potted plant are more pet-safe options. In particular, eucalyptus leaves hung over the head of your shower will help guarantee your bathroom stays insect-free. These methods will still repel a variety of insects, but they may be less powerful. In addition, these plants may attract other insects, such as beetles. 

Final Thoughts

There’s no denying that the world is becoming increasingly aware of the dangers of chemical pesticides and deterrents. The damage these products do to both flora and fauna has far-reaching consequences. Instead of using these, many homeowners have turned to natural methods of insect control, and eucalyptus is one of the best natural repellents available on the market today. Whether you choose to use it as an essential oil or hang up some leaves in your home, it will work beautifully. This plant has a pleasant scent that keeps pests away, so using it as a repellent is a win-win. 

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