Ah yes — that’s a classic natural insect repellent trick! 🌿🪰🦟🪳
Here’s how it works and what to do safely:
The idea
Boiling certain leaves releases natural oils and compounds that insects hate. The steam fills your room and keeps them away.
Common effective leaves
- Basil – repels flies and mosquitoes
- Mint – repels flies and mosquitoes
- Bay leaves – good for cockroaches
- Rosemary – keeps flies and mosquitoes at bay
- Lemongrass or citronella leaves – strong mosquito deterrent
How to do it
- Fill a pot with water.
- Add a handful of leaves (fresh works best, dried is okay too).
- Bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer.
- Let the steam fill the room for 20–30 minutes.
- Optionally, pour the cooled liquid into a spray bottle and spritz near windows, doors, or corners.
Tips for best results
- Use a mix of leaves for stronger effect.
- Keep windows/doors closed while steaming for maximum efficiency.
- Replace leaves every few hours if you want continuous protection.
- For cockroaches, place bay leaves in cupboards and dark corners.
Safety note
- Don’t leave boiling water unattended — burns and spills are dangerous.
- Steam may irritate eyes if you get too close.
If you want, I can give you a ready-to-go 3-leaf combo that repels flies, mosquitoes, AND cockroaches for the whole house — natural and safe.
Do you want me to do that?
