Find out which plant naturally repels mice and how to use it at home.
Rodents, especially rats , are a nuisance, transmit diseases, and are difficult to eliminate once they settle in a home. But a simple, affordable, and natural solution can help scare them away: eucalyptus leaves. According to biologist Fabiano Soares , the secret lies in a substance found in the plant—eucalyptol—that acts directly on these mammals' sensitive sense of smell.
"It's a very common essential oil used as an insect repellent. Although there are no scientific studies on its effect against rodents, the strong scent can disturb their olfactory system and act as a natural repellent," explains the expert.
How to use eucalyptus to keep mice away
1. Cotton with essential oil
According to Fabiano, the most effective way is to use eucalyptus essential oil soaked in cotton balls. "You can place the cotton balls in corners of the house, at entrances, and in places where they might want to roost. The eucalyptus scent is bothersome and prevents them from staying there," he explains.
2. Associate the smell with a bad experience
A complementary technique is to create "conditioning" in rodents. "If a rat smells eucalyptol and is exposed to a stressful situation—like a mousetrap, even if it doesn't fall into it—it will associate that smell with a negative experience. This prevents it from returning," says the biologist.
3. Spray in the environment (with weaker effect)
According to the expert, essential oils can also be diluted and sprayed, but the results don't last as long. "When you spray, the effect is more temporary. Cotton is better because it holds the oil and gradually releases the scent."
Besides rodents, eucalyptol also helps keep insects away from your home. "Plants with strong-smelling essential oils, such as eucalyptus and citronella, are also useful for repelling insects. They don't like these substances in their environment."
Important: Eucalyptus is an ally, not the only solutionDespite the benefits, Fabiano warns that rodent control requires basic measures . "The main thing is to avoid cracks, poorly disposed of garbage, and food scraps. Essential oils can be used as a booster, but in cases of infestation, they alone won't solve the problem."
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