Is it true that you can use Listerine to keep mosquitoes away?

Answer by  PZ (1206)

Listerine contains eucalyptol, which is made from eucalytus oil. Scientific studies have shown that eucalytus oil will repel mosquitoes. However, because there is such a tiny amount of eucalyptol in Listerine, it will not be very effective at keeping mosquitoes away, even if you put it directly on your skin.

Answer by  Ginny (2251)

Listerine has been touted as curing or preventing everything from halitosis, to sore throats and dandruff. However, there is nothing in its ingredients of menthol, thymol, methyl salicylate and eucalyptol that should keep mosquitoes away. You may be thinking of a product made by Avon called Skin So Soft which people say helps keep mosquitoes away.

Answer by  Mar (428)

Listerine is an effect means of mosquitoe repellant. Simply pour Listerine into a spray bottle and apply to any exposed skin surfaces prior to exposure to mosquitoes or apply with a cotton ball and allow to skin to dry prior to entering the area in which mosquitoes are likely to be of concern.

Answer by  diane41 (309)

Yes, this is true. After hearing this I decided to give it a try. As I was spraying the the listerine into my grass and on to my plants I could see the mosquitoes flying away. I did this twice last year prior to having back yard parites and both times the paries were virtually bug free.