What makes herbal bug repellent repel bugs?

What is it about bug spray that repels insects? Is it the smell, the plants being used, or a combination of the two?

Bee

Good question Bee!

Herbal insect repellers are INSECT ADDLERS. They addle the insects so their sensors do not work as well. A mosquito might fly right into you and never “see” you there. Plants produce essential oils to combat insects, mold and fungus. Humans can harvest those plant oils and use them ourselves. So in this application it is the smell. Thanks for asking!