Michael Greger: Friday Favorites: Do Garlic, Beer, Bananas, and B Vitamins Really Repel Mosquitoes?
Peer-Reviewed Research
Key Takeaways
- Garlic may reduce tick bites by ~20% (based on military trials), but has no proven effect on mosquitoes.
- Bananas increase mosquito attraction for hours after eating—avoid before outdoor exposure.
- Beer makes you more attractive to mosquitoes—skip it if avoiding bites.
- B vitamins (oral or topical) show zero repellent effects—don’t rely on them.
- DEET/permethrin-treated clothing remains the most effective bite prevention.
Supplements & Protocols Mentioned
- Garlic: ~1 clove/day reduced tick bites in Swedish military trial.
- Vitamin B complex (B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B9, B12): No repellent effect in studies.
Notable Quotes
“Bottom line, vitamin B1, also known as thiamine, is not a systemic mosquito repellent in man.”
Bottom Line
Skip bananas and beer before mosquito exposure; prioritize proven repellents like DEET or permethrin-treated clothing. Garlic may help slightly with ticks but not mosquitoes.
Explore supplements mentioned in this video
Explore More
- Michael Greger’s Full Protocol — supplements, dosages, and daily routine
- Compare All Protocols — side-by-side protocols
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Medical Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The research summaries presented here are based on published studies and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical consultation. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your health regimen.
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