Why Garlic Repels Mosquitoes and Keeps Them From Breeding
Garlic has been scientifically proven to repel mosquitoes and inhibit their mating and egg-laying behaviors. Researchers from Yale University identified diallyl disulfide as the compound responsible for this effect, which acts on the taste receptors of insects. The findings suggest that garlic could be a viable natural solution for controlling various insect pests that threaten human health and agriculture.
- ▪Garlic has been known as a natural mosquito repellent for centuries.
- ▪A study found that garlic completely blocks mating and egg-laying in mosquitoes and other flying insects.
- ▪Diallyl disulfide, a compound in garlic, activates taste receptors that inhibit reproductive behaviors in insects.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
Fernanda GonzálezScienceMay 24, 2026 5:00 AMWhy Garlic Repels Mosquitoes and Keeps Them From BreedingGarlic, as your grandmother may have told you, repels mosquitoes; it also completely blocks them from mating and laying eggs. Diallyl disulfide, it turns out, deserves the credit.Photograph: Tim Graham/Getty ImagesCommentLoaderSave StorySave this storyCommentLoaderSave StorySave this storyGarlic has been considered a natural mosquito repellent for centuries. In popular culture, it is believed that its pungent smell repels these insects, which, in addition to causing sleepless nights, transmit diseases such as dengue fever or malaria.
…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at WIRED.
Discussion
0 commentsMore from WIRED
