Do Mosquitoes Like Cilantro

Mosquitoes don’t like cilantro, and that’s actually good news for anyone who loves this polarizing herb.
 
While mosquitoes may not be drawn to cilantro the way they’re drawn to some people, the relationship between mosquitoes and cilantro isn’t quite that simple.
 
Some studies suggest that certain compounds in cilantro could actually repel mosquitoes, while other research shows that cilantro doesn’t attract them either.
 
So if you’re wondering whether mosquitoes like cilantro, the short answer is no, they don’t.
 
In this post, we’ll explore why mosquitoes don’t like cilantro, what science says about cilantro and mosquito repellent, and how you can use this herb to keep those buzzing pests away.
 
Let’s dig in.
 

Why Mosquitoes Don’t Like Cilantro

Mosquitoes don’t like cilantro because of the natural compounds found in the plant’s leaves and stems.
 
Here’s why this herb works against those biting insects:
 

1. Cilantro Contains Natural Repellent Compounds

Cilantro is packed with essential oils like linalool and geraniol, which are known to repel mosquitoes.
 
These compounds interfere with the mosquito’s ability to detect human skin and blood.
 
When mosquitoes can’t smell you, they can’t find you, and that’s why mosquitoes don’t like cilantro.
 
In fact, some research shows that these compounds can be as effective as DEET in certain concentrations.
 

2. The Scent Overpowers Mosquito Attraction

Mosquitoes are attracted to humans by the carbon dioxide we exhale, our body heat, and the lactic acid in our sweat.
 
But cilantro’s strong, pungent scent can mask those cues.
 
When you crush cilantro leaves or rub them on your skin, the released oils create a scent barrier that mosquitoes find unpleasant.
 
So even if mosquitoes don’t like cilantro because of its smell, that’s a win for you.
 

3. Cilantro Oil Is Used in Some Natural Insecticides

Essential oil from cilantro is sometimes included in natural mosquito repellent products.
 
These products use cilantro oil alongside other plant-based ingredients like citronella and lemon eucalyptus.
 
That’s because mosquitoes don’t like cilantro oil and tend to avoid areas where it’s been applied.
 
So if you’re looking for a chemical-free way to keep mosquitoes at bay, cilantro might just be your new best friend.
 

Does Cilantro Actually Repel Mosquitoes?

Cilantro does repel mosquitoes to some degree, but it’s not a miracle solution.
 
Here’s what you need to know about using cilantro as a mosquito repellent:
 

1. Crushed Leaves Offer Short-Term Protection

If you crush a handful of cilantro leaves and rub them on your exposed skin, you may get some temporary relief from mosquito bites.
 
However, the effect doesn’t last long because the oils evaporate quickly.
 
You’ll need to reapply every 30 minutes or so if you’re spending time outdoors.
 
Still, it’s a handy trick if you’re in a pinch and want to know whether mosquitoes like cilantro or not.
 

2. Cilantro Plants in the Garden May Help

Planting cilantro around your patio or garden won’t create an invisible force field against mosquitoes.
 
But it can help reduce their presence slightly.
 
The living plants release small amounts of repellent compounds into the air.
 
And when you brush against them, you’ll release even more.
 
So while mosquitoes don’t like cilantro, you shouldn’t rely on it alone to keep them away.
 

3. Cilantro Oil Sprays Are More Concentrated

For stronger protection, you can make a DIY spray using cilantro essential oil mixed with water and a little witch hazel.
 
Spray it on your clothes, your skin, and around your seating area.
 
Just remember that essential oils are potent, so test a small patch of skin first and avoid your eyes.
 
But if you’re serious about learning whether mosquitoes like cilantro, this is one of the best ways to put it to the test.
 

Other Herbs and Plants That Mosquitoes Don’t Like

While mosquitoes don’t like cilantro, it’s not the only herb that can help you fight them off.
 
Here are a few other plants that mosquitoes tend to avoid:
 

1. Citronella

Citronella is the classic mosquito repellent plant.
 
Its strong lemony scent masks human odors and makes it hard for mosquitoes to find you.
 
You can plant it in pots or use citronella candles and oils.
 

2. Basil

Basil produces compounds that are toxic to mosquito larvae.
 
And its strong scent repels adult mosquitoes too.
 
So keeping a basil plant near your door or window can help keep them out.
 

3. Lavender

Lavender’s soothing scent is lovely to humans but offensive to mosquitoes.
 
You can plant lavender in your garden or use lavender oil on your skin.
 
Just like cilantro, mosquitoes don’t like lavender, so it’s a great addition to your anti-mosquito arsenal.
 

So, Do Mosquitoes Like Cilantro?

Mosquitoes don’t like cilantro, and that’s a fact backed by science and practical experience.
 
Cilantro contains natural compounds that repel mosquitoes and mask the scents that attract them to humans.
 
While it’s not a perfect solution, using cilantro leaves, plants, or oil can be a helpful part of your mosquito defense strategy.
 
So the next time you’re chopping cilantro for salsa or guacamole, you can feel good knowing you’re also keeping those pesky biters at bay.
 
Whether you’re a cilantro lover or one of those people who thinks it tastes like soap, you can still appreciate that mosquitoes like cilantro even less than you do.