*PLANTS THAT KEEP MOSQUITOES AWAY* After an infected mosquito bites you, you may experience sudden high fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, muscle and joint pain, nausea, skin rash, and fatigue. These dengue symptoms can last for *2 to 7 days.* If you don’t want to experience these symptoms, bring home the following plants that keep mosquitoes away: 1. *Eucalyptus* Known for its clean, menthol-like aroma, eucalyptus contains eucalyptol (cineole) and citronellal, both highly effective in repelling mosquitoes. During a study, published in BMC, it was found that eucalyptus protected against mosquitoes for 8 hours. You can plant eucalyptus trees outdoors or get a small one indoors or crush a few leaves to release the oils. 2. *Marigold* These flowers contain pyrethrum, a natural compound found in many insect repellents. Their strong, musky scent deters mosquitoes and other pests like whiteflies and aphids. They can be planted around the garden borders, window sills, or near doorways. 3. *Citronella grass* This is one of the plants that keep mosquitoes away. Citronella grass emits a strong citrusy scent that masks human odours. It’s the commonly used ingredient in citronella candles. It grows well in pots and needs a warm, sunny spot. 4. *Lavender* Lavender, one of the plants that keep mosquitoes away, contains linalool, a compound with proven insect-repelling properties. Its sweet floral scent is pleasing to humans but disliked by mosquitoes. It grows well in pots near windows or garden borders. 5. *Holy basil (tulsi)* The benefits of holy basil or tulsi are not limited to better digestion and immunity. It is among the plants that keep mosquitoes away, as tulsi emits eugenol and estragole, which act as natural mosquito deterrents. You can plant it in sunny areas near windows or doors. 6. *Lemon balm* It is mint-family plant rich in citronellal and geraniol. Its lemony scent confuses the insects, which is why it is part of the list of plants that keep mosquitoes away. Lemon balm acts as natural insect repellent, especially against mosquitoes. 7. *Peppermint* You may be using peppermint oil to get rid of dark circles. Turns out, its menthol content gives it a cooling aroma that mosquitoes avoid. Crushed leaves can be rubbed on skin, but patch test first. It spreads quickly, so make sure to grow it in containers. 8. *Catnip* If you are a cat momma, you may be familiar with catnip or Nepeta cataria. It is a plant known for the excitement it is able to create in cats. Your furry friend may love it, but it is part of the list of plants that keep mosquitoes away. It contains nepetalactone, which may be more effective than DEET in repelling mosquitoes. In comparison with other mosquito repellents like DEET and picaridin, catnip oil can be considered as a relatively safer option, according to research published in Medical And Veterinary Entomology. Researchers found that applying it may only cause minor skin irritation. 9. *Rosemary* Woody and aromatic, rosemary contains camphor and rosmarinic acid, which work as natural detergents. Burn rosemary during family gatherings outside your home, as it releases a fragrant smoke that keeps mosquitoes away. #healthandlifeworld