Lavender extract makes excellent mosquito-repellent

To date, synthetic repellents have been the best way to keep the little blood-suckers at bay. These work, but can cause a range of health problems including rashes, eye inflammation and respiratory distress. This has led many to search for alternatives. The compounds responsible for lavender’s fragrance, for example, known as essential oils, have long been shown to deter mosquitoes. Unfortunately, the ease with which they evaporate, and the speed with which they break down under ultraviolet light, has made it impossible to turn them into long-lasting protection.