Dengue is on the rise again as we see more rainfall in the past month. Weather forecasts have also predicted that the next few weeks will be no better.

Over 2,000 dengue cases have been reported in the first quarter of 2019, which is a more than three-fold increase from the approximately 600 dengue cases reported in the same period in 2018 in Singapore.

While there are measures in place to minimize the population of mosquitoes, we are not fully protected from these infectious insects flying or even breeding in our own home. For homes with young children and seniors, using an insect repellent may not be the best idea for their health.

For a safer alternative, essential oils that have insect repelling properties can also be used as a replacement to repellents laced with chemicals that are harmful to the body. Not only are essential oils 100% pure and natural, but they also provide therapeutic effects as well as health benefits.

Here are 4 essential oils that you can use for a Dengue-free home.

1. Citronella

This essential oil is the most well-known oil for repelling insects. Not only are they effective against mosquitoes, they can also repel flies, fleas, ticks, and cockroaches. Aromatically, Citronella is also suitable for relieving headaches and migraines.

2. Lemongrass

Second to Citronella is its cousin species, Lemongrass. The scent of this essential oil is surprisingly more pleasant and fragrant, and it also has the ability to dispel lethargy. It's a great oil to use for livening up the environment.

3. Eucalyptus

There are plenty of Eucalyptus species in the market, but generally, most Eucalyptus plants are capable of repelling mosquitoes. Additionally, Eucalyptus essential oil can also double as an itch remedy if you've already been bitten by one.

4. Peppermint

Peppermint contains menthol, an ingredient that insects usually avoid. Its scent is a natural deterrent to mosquitoes, making it a suitable scent for chasing mosquitoes away and keeping the place smelling fresh and minty.

Try also

Remedies, Bugs Be Gone

HYSSES's in-house essential oil blend of Lemongrass and Clove. This concoction produces a spicy-sweet scent that has been proved effective for masking human odours known to mosquitoes.