Historically, the term"'bug repellent" has referred to any substance which can be applied to skin, clothing, or other surfaces that actively deters insects from coming near the treated area. In recent years, electronic devices that function as bug repellents by emitting high frequency sounds have been marketed as an alternative to toxic chemicals. Recent studies by the EPA have shown these devices have no effect on the insects they are intended to inhibit leaving people with two choices--harmful but effective synthetic chemicals or non-toxic but less powerful natural bug repellents. Does this Spark an idea?
Introduction
Bugs are everywhere--in the carpet, cupboard, counters and bed--and they are unwanted and undesirable pests. While some ideas for natural bug repellent do belong in the "Myth and Legend" file, there are valid alternatives to toxic synthetic solutions. Natural repellents do exist that can provide you with an effective method for protecting yourself and your loved ones from both biting bugs and harsh chemicals.
Ants
Leave a crushed mint leaves or cloves where ants seem to be most active. They seem to find mint tea bags off putting as well.
For some reason, ants and other bugs seem to be naturally repelled by cucumber. Set some slices or peels where ever you have seen ants. Follow the ant column back to their point of entry. Use any of these natural bug repellents to make a small line: cinnamon, coffee grounds, cayenne pepper, citrus oil or lemon juice. Ants will not cross it.
Cockroaches
Catnip is an excellent natural repellent for roaches and other bugs. Place catnip sachets in places where roaches seem to congregate or make some catnip tea, by letting it steep in boiling water for a few minutes, straining and pouring into a spray bottle. This tea can then be sprayed around baseboards and behind major appliances. This should not be used in homes with cats. Boric acid is another excellent repellent. If roaches are the main problem, you're going to want to put it on top of the cabinets, not beneath. Cockroaches like high places and it is safer to use this way as it keeps it out of reach. The hedge apple, or Osage orange, acts as a natural bug repellent. Place one in every room of your home for effective deterrence for up to two months. Place bay leaves, cucumber slices or garlic on the counters, as roaches and other bugs are naturally repelled by these aromas.
Dust Mites
These pesky little critters are everywhere in your home--your bed, furniture and even your child's stuffed animals. For a natural dust mite treatment, try tannic acid. Available at pet stores and health food centers, it is the most effective natural repellent against these bugs. Sprinkle it over problem areas to remain mite free.
Fleas
Citrus is a natural flea repellent. Slice an unpeeled lemon and pour a cup of boiling water over it. Let this mixture stand overnight. Strain and apply the lemon water to your dog with a sponge to kill these bugs instantly. Add apple cider vinegar or brewers yeast to your pet's food. Garlic also works as a natural bug repellent when ingested, but it is not recommended for cats or small dogs. Cedar works as a natural repellent against many bugs, including fleas. Cedar oil, cedar filled sleeping mats and cedar shampoo products are all readily available and effective.
Flies
Small sachets of crushed mint leaves are an effective natural fly repellent. Eucalyptus, cloves or bay leaves can be wrapped in cloth and hung in open widows for an aromatic yet effective natural deterrent. If you find your pet's food is drawing flies, you can place a small container of clover or sweet basil nearby to discourage the bugs.
Mosquitoes
Citronella or eucalyptus oil are natural alternatives to DEET and will repel bugs for 30 to 100 minutes depending on the concentration of the oil. Add a few drops to candles, to your shampoo, or to an unscented lotion or oil. If you're having a cookout, toss a handful of rosemary or sage into the fire. For an easy homemade natural bug repellent, mix one part of garlic juice with five parts water. Pour into a spray bottle and spritz on exposed parts of your body. For a more fragrant alternative, take one measuring cup of 190-proof grain alcohol and add a total of three teaspoons of any combination of these essential oils: rose geranium, myrrh, lemon, juniper, citronella, eucalyptus, cedar wood or basil. Marigolds act as a natural bug repellent by giving off an aroma many insects, including mosquitoes, don't like. Plant them around your yard and along the edge of your house. Thai lemon grass is another natural and effective mosquito repellent. The stalks contain citronella, a fragrance mosquitoes find unappealing. You can purchase lemon grass plants at your local garden center. To use as a bug repellent, break off a stalk and peel back the outer leaves. Rub the pulp over your exposed skin. Try essential oils as well. When exposing your skin to any new essential oil, try a test patch first. If any itching or redness occurs, rinse test spot with copious amounts of water, then wash well. Essential oils work well as natural bug repellents, but are most effective for the first 30 to 60 minutes. Frequent reapplication is required every one to two hours.
Tags: natural repellent, effective natural, other bugs, boiling water, crushed mint