Tired of mosquitoes? There are plants that scare them

A total of 2,179 cases of dengue fever were registered throughout the country, according to the epidemiological report of the Ministry of Health (Minsa).

The regions with the most cases are: Panama Metro, with 400; Panama Oeste, with 385; Colón, with 244, Chiriquí, with 207 and Panama Este, with 164.

To date, 6 deaths have been reported, 2 in the Metropolitan Region, 2 in Colón, 1 in Coclé and the last in eastern Panama.

The Pan American Health Organization and World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO) reiterates the call to Member States to intensify efforts and actions to control the Aedes aegypti mosquito (the main vector), with continued surveillance, early diagnosis and timely treatment of dengue cases.

But apart from cleaning and avoiding mosquito breeding places, there is another method that can help keep these insects away and thus prevent disease, and that is certain plants that act as repellents.

Plants can be a great natural repellant to keep some pesky insects and even disease-threatening insects away from your home. For example, there are several anti-mosquito plants, with specific characteristics that make them more or less suitable for different environments.

What are those plants?

1. Ordinary lavender. One of the great advantages is that it blooms all year round. In addition to its relaxing smell, this plant helps fight mosquitoes and other annoying insects. Ideal for several pots in the garden or on the floor near the window.

2. Mint. Another multipurpose aromatic herb. Its aroma keeps insects away; In case of a bite, rubbing the area with one of its leaves relieves the itching. Ideal for preparing refreshing infusions. It grows very well in containers or in the garden on soil rich in organic matter and somewhat moist.

3. Basil. Besides being the protagonist in sauces and salads, it repels mosquitoes. You can put it in pots near the window and also put a few sprigs in the house. The key to keeping it healthy is to always keep it moist, but avoid filling it with water. In this sense, it is ideal to water it daily (even several times a day, with a little water) and facilitate its drainage.

4. Pelargoniums. They are colorful plants and produce flowers throughout the year. In addition to beautifying terraces and gardens, they are an effective barrier against insects. As an added bonus, geraniums are very easy to care for. They usually reach significant dimensions, so it is advisable to plant them in the ground. They need a lot of light and ideally get a few hours of direct light a day, which will also improve their flowering.

5. Citronella plant. It is known for the fact that many insect repellents are made from its oil. Its smell is strong and repels mosquitoes. It can be planted in containers or in the ground and requires very little care. It needs a lot of water; In summer it will even require twice as much. However, you must always monitor the surface. That is, the soil must drain well and be dry when watering. Note that it will suffer if it gets soaked in water.

6. Rosemary. This medicinal and aromatic plant has many properties, including scaring away mosquitoes and moths, due to its intense aroma. For rosemary to be effective indoors, it is ideal to leave a few branches to dry and burn their leaves. Its aroma, which contains geraniol, will repel mosquitoes. To scare them away, you can also use rosemary oil.

7. Jasmine. In addition to filling your garden or terrace with beauty, the intense aroma is perfect for repelling flies and mosquitoes.