Here’s what experts had to say on the matter, plus some ideas for other pest repellents. In one study, candles made with citronella essential oil were able to reduce the number of 1mosquitoes by about 35% and sand flies by 15%. Another study found that having citronella candles or incense burning did reduce the number of mosquito bites2 on participants, but only by about 42% and 24%, respectively. Entomologist and professor at Michigan State University Howard Russell, M.S., tells mbg that, because of these low percentages, he doesn’t consider citronella alone to be an effective mosquito repellent. Burn or diffuse these scents in your yard for a fragrant bug-fighting mix. That said, the Environmental Working Group recommends limiting DEET concentrations in products to 30%, so check those labels.
