3. Basil
Like catnip, basil is another relative of the mint family with some powerful mosquito repellent properties. Due to its high estragole content, basil’s rich fragrance has even earned it the title of Queen (basileus) of aromatic herbs.
Estragole is a naturally-occurring volatile compound with a well-garnered reputation as an insect repellent. And of the seven known mosquito-repellent volatiles (pyrethrins, methyl-nonyl-ketone, geraniol, estragole, citronellal, limonene, and nerolidol), basil contains not one, but four of them. Making it a veritable mosquito-deterring powerhouse.
But of all the varieties of basil, cinnamon basil, Peruvian Basil, and lemon basil distinguish themselves from the rest due to their strong fragrances. While the herb can be distilled into a longer-lasting spray, more immediate relief from pests can be obtained by simply crushing basil leaves and rubbing a handful directly onto your skin. Should you desire to grow your own basil, though, the only real requirements are abundant sunlight, moist soil, and proper drainage conditions.