What Smells Do Snakes Fear?

According to folklore, snakes are afraid of the scent of lemongrass. For this reason, many people plant lemongrass in their gardens, along fences, or hang lemongrass around their homes to deter snakes. Some also use lemongrass essential oil to prevent snakes from entering their houses.

Additionally, snakes are known to fear realgar powder. This substance, scientifically known as arsenic sulfide, has a distinct yellow-orange color and a strong, unpleasant odor. When snakes encounter realgar powder, they tend to flee. Sprinkling it around the house, pathways, or garden can help keep snakes away. However, realgar is also toxic to humans, so it is not recommended for regular use.

Another common remedy is mixing crushed garlic with coarse salt in a 1:1 ratio and sprinkling it around the house. This method is believed to help repel snakes effectively.

What Plants Do Snakes Avoid?

1. Lemongrass

As mentioned earlier, traditional beliefs suggest that snakes dislike the scent of lemongrass. Thus, many people plant lemongrass around their homes as a natural deterrent. However, scientific research is still needed to confirm whether snakes genuinely fear lemongrass. Additionally, since fresh lemongrass may not always emit a strong enough scent, and the plant grows in dense clumps, it may still provide a hiding place for reptiles and insects. Therefore, caution is advised when approaching large clusters of lemongrass.

2. Chrysanthemums

Chrysanthemums not only beautify gardens but are also believed to repel snakes. They contain a natural compound called pyrethrum, which is known to deter both snakes and various insects.

3. Marigolds

Marigolds have bright, attractive colors, but they also release a strong scent that many snakes find unpleasant. It is believed that areas with marigolds are less likely to attract snakes.

4. Garlic Vine (Mansoa alliacea)

Garlic vine, also known as false garlic creeper or garlic-flavored bignonia, is a climbing plant with beautiful purple flowers, often grown along fences for decoration. It emits a strong garlic-like odor, which is known to repel reptiles, including snakes. Besides its snake-repelling properties, garlic vine is also used in herbal medicine to treat heat rashes, detoxify the body, and relieve inflammation.

5. Snake Plant (Sansevieria)

The snake plant is a popular ornamental houseplant with good Feng Shui significance. It stays green year-round, is easy to grow, and requires minimal maintenance. Some believe that the sap of the snake plant is unpleasant to snakes, making it a useful plant for keeping them away from homes.

Additional Measures to Prevent Snakes

While planting these snake-repelling plants can be helpful, maintaining a clean and organized living space is essential in keeping snakes away.

• Keep your home and yard tidy: Regularly mow the lawn, clear overgrown vegetation, and remove clutter where snakes might hide.
• Watch for signs of snakes: If you notice snake tracks, shed snake skin, or burrows around your home, inform your family members and take precautions.
• Avoid direct confrontation: If you spot a snake in a confined space like a drawer or a cabinet corner, remain calm and avoid disturbing it. Instead, exit the area and contact professional snake removal services for assistance.

By combining these preventive measures with strategic plant placement, you can reduce the likelihood of snakes entering your home.