There are several natural uses for lemons, apart from their flavor. They have also become a perfect ally, together with baking soda, for cleaning and disinfecting surfaces. However, according to a study published in ResearchGate, one of the compounds present in lemon juice and peel, limonene, is unpleasant for many insects, including cockroaches. The study specifies that citrus oils can be between 70% and 96% repellent for different species.
According to a review available on PubMed Central (PMC), these essential oils derived from citrus fruits contain substances that interfere with the olfactory receptors of insects, such as limonene and citral. For this reason, HouseDigest recommends lemon juice and peel as a homemade repellent, although its effect is limited and it is not effective in eliminating pests.
Different uses for lemon at home
Although it has always been used as a natural remedy, it seems to have become more fashionable lately. The combination of lemon, vinegar, and baking soda creates a natural disinfectant suitable for cleaning the home. In addition, it goes without saying that lemon is one of the essential ingredients in the kitchen. However, it has another practical use that some people are unaware of: it serves as a natural insect repellent.
Lemon as a natural insect repellent
A study published in ResearchGate indicates that citrus oils, including orange, lime, and lemon, are capable of showing repellent activity of between 70% and 96% in laboratory tests, applied to different species. Their effectiveness depends both on the concentration of these oils and on how they are applied. According to PubMed Central (PMC), the components found in the oils are responsible for this effect: phytochemicals.
They mainly refer to limonene and citral, which interfere with the olfactory receptors of insects. This causes them to avoid areas treated with these aromas, reducing their presence in enclosed spaces. Although Housedigest recommends lemon juice and peel as repellents for cockroaches, M&M Post Control indicates that this is a preventive remedy and has limitations. This method requires frequent application to be effective, as the compounds evaporate quickly, making it an ineffective measure for combating an infestation.
How can I repel cockroaches using lemon?
According to experts, here are some tricks you can use to prevent unwanted visitors from entering your home:
- Clean surfaces with a mixture of lemon juice and hot water to remove traces of grease and odors that attract cockroaches.
- Place fresh peels in key areas such as corners, behind appliances, and under the sink.
- Use lemon essential oil diluted in water and spray it on door frames, windows, or cracks.
- Combine it with baking soda or vinegar to enhance its disinfecting effect and neutralize odors.
- Replace the peels or reapply the mixture every two days, as limonene loses its effectiveness over time.
Using lemon to combat pests
The use of lemon is recommended to prevent the appearance of insects (such as cockroaches), but not to combat them. Although its repellent action has been scientifically proven, M&M Pest Control clarifies that lemon does not completely eliminate pests. It is not a chemical that fulfills this function, but rather a natural repellent that has the ability to reduce insects’ interest in certain spaces.
Furthermore, its reliability will always depend on the cleanliness of surfaces and the absence of sources of moisture or food. That is why you can try it as a natural repellent and see its benefits for yourself, but if you want to eliminate a pest, it is best to contact professionals.