Which Bugs Does Citronella Keep Away?

Citronella oil is a natural insect repellant, especially for mosquitoes. Tests have shown it to be less effective than the standard chemical used in repellants, DEET.

What insects does citronella deter?

You're probably most familiar with citronella candles to repel mosquitoes, but the smell comes from a plant called Cymbopogon nardus, which gives off a distinct beach grass vibe. It's the oil from the plant that's actually the repellent, according to the National Pesticide Information Center (NPIC).

Do citronella candles work on other bugs?

Myth: Citronella candles repel mosquitoes. ... But while the oil of citronella does repel mosquitoes to some degree, “in the amount and concentration that is put out via candles, it's not very effective,” says Joseph Conlon, a technical adviser for the American Mosquito Control Association.