Many natural mosquito repellents don't repel mosquitoes effectively.
According to the University of Florida IFAS Extension, two kinds of mosquito repellents exist in the market: those that use synthetic chemicals and those that use plant-derived chemicals. They are available in various formulations that come in a variety of forms, according to the extension service. Does this Spark an idea?
Types
Natural repellents are usually essential oils derived from plants. These include the oil of lemon eucalyptus, citronella, lemon thyme and citrosa.
Effectiveness
According to the University of New Hampshire Cooperative Extension, natural mosquito repellents usually don't work as effectively as other types of repellents because they don't have to pass rigorous testing to prove their effectiveness. However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that oil of lemon eucalyptus works as effectively as low concentrations of DEET.
Considerations
Natural products often market themselves as being safe. However, according to the University of Florida IFAS Extension, natural products are not necessarily safer. They can be toxic and irritating, especially in high concentrations.
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