Does lavender keep moths away?

Lavender has been a staple in households for centuries. Its strong scent and beautiful flowers have made it a popular choice for many different purposes, including aromatherapy, cooking, and as an insect repellent. But what about its effectiveness against one of the most dreaded insects of all: moths?

What are moths?

Moths are nocturnal insects that can cause damage to clothing and fabrics if left unchecked. They lay their eggs on natural fibres such as wool, silk, and cotton which hatch into larvae that feed on the fibers causing holes and damage to garments.

The Claim

It is often claimed that lavender is an effective moth repellent due to its strong scent. This claim has been tested numerous times by both scientists and homeowners alike with mixed results.

The Science

A study conducted by USDA Forest Service found that moth larvae were less likely to survive when exposed to high concentrations of lavender oil (1). Furthermore, another study showed that wrapping clothes in sachets made from dried lavender flowers reduced the number of female adult Indian mealmoths caught in sticky traps (2).

However not all studies support this claim; research also shows limited or no effect against some species including common clothes moth (Tineola bisselliella) (3), human body lice (4) or Pacific beetle cockroach (Diploptera punctata) (5).

It appears once again there isn’t simply a ‘one size fits all’ solution!
But if you’re still keen on keeping those pesky bugs at bay whilst enjoying fresh-scented home linen storage then consider trying pure cedar heartwood blocks – works wonders!

Conclusion

Although scientific evidence suggests varying efficacy levels depending upon product formulation & pest type targeted time will tell whether our tiny winged adversary may become more tolerant toward essential oils like Lavender over time. As for now, it seems unlikely that lavender will keep all types of moths at bay.

In conclusion, while lavender has shown some evidence of repelling moths in certain studies, it is not guaranteed to work with every species. It’s better to use multiple repellents and strategies rather than relying solely on one method. Remember: prevention is key! Regular cleaning and properly storing fabrics in tightly sealed containers or bags can significantly reduce the chances of a moth infestation taking hold.

So let’s leave this mighty plant for its aromatherapeutic functions so as to enjoy relaxed evenings amidst the beauty & wonderment of nature without inviting our little pesky pals indoors.

References

  1. USDA Forest service report “Toxicity Of Wood Oils And Their Components To The Larvae Of The Clothes Moth” (1947).
  2. The Journal Of Economic Entomology – “Effectiveness Of Lavender In Repelling Cloth Moths, Tineola Bisselliella” (2010).
  3. University of Kentucky Extension Service-Entymology Department-“Control of Clothes Moth”. http://entomology.ca.uky.edu/ef602.
  4. Hwang J.Y., Lee E.H., Kang J.S.; Pyrethroid Resistance Mechanisms in Human Head Lice; Corresponding Author: Prof Jin-Soo Lee Institute for Glycomics Griffith University Gold Coast Campus
  5. Soderlund DM & Bloomquist JR Insecticide resistance in insect GABA receptors and neurological targets/Annu Rev Entomol 56(2011)163-81

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