Ingredients:
10β15 dried bay leaves
2 cups of water
Optional: a few drops of essential oil (eucalyptus, citronella, or lavender for extra effect)
Instructions:
- Boil the water in a pot.
- Add the bay leaves to the boiling water.
- Let it simmer for 10β15 minutes, allowing the aroma to spread.
- Turn off the heat and leave the pot open in the area where you want to repel insects (such as the kitchen or living room).
You can also pour the cooled mixture into a spray bottle and mist around doorways, windows, or trash areas.
Why It Works:
Bay leaves contain natural oils like eucalyptol, which emit a scent that repels insects such as flies, mosquitoes, and cockroaches.
The warm vapor helps distribute the scent throughout your space.
πͺ° Tip: While this helps reduce insects naturally, itβs not a permanent fix β regular cleaning and sealing food/water sources are also essential to keep pests away.