Friday, May 2, 2008

Natural Insect Repellent

It seems to be that time of year in Florida, where the mosquitoes are coming out and feasting on us. Here are some natural ideas for you to utilize instead of using those harmful sprays that are full of chemicals:

Make your own spray to spritz on exposed parts...

30 drops of essential oils
1/4 cup of water or apple cider vinegar

Put into a small spray bottle, shake and spray. Use the following essential oils for repelling those critters: citronella (lemon balm), eucalyptus, rosemary, basil, cloves, geranium, and peppermint. Add a little lemon grass or citrus oil for a nice scent.

Other ideas are to eat lots of onions and garlic, and brewer's yeast. Environmentally, you can plant repelling plants around your property like peppermint, basil, rosemary, geranium, citronella, tansy, fennel, bay, and even onions and garlic. This is where the window box idea comes in handy. Wherever these herbs and plants are growing the flying insects will fly away.

If you happen to be on the receiving end of one of those mosquitoes bites, quickly put some baking soda mixed with a little water on it and that will take care of the itch. You must put the paste on within a few minutes or you miss the window of opportunity.

If you don't wish to make your own repellent, there are some great sprays out there. I have used Burt's Bees, as well as Neem Oil products, which also has many uses besides insect repellents.

So, get out there and enjoy the beautiful day, just remember the spray!

Clearskies

Sources: Folk Remedies that Work, by Joan Wilen and Lydia Wilen and Better Basics for the Home by Annie Berthold-Bond

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St. Petersburg, Florida, United States