Once winter is over, the warm weather approaches and the days get longer and most people want nothing more than to just get outdoors and enjoy themselves. Unfortunately, insects like mosquitoes, ticks and other pests have exactly the same idea, which leads to people buying massive amounts of insect-repelling sprays and creams that are, in fact, loaded with some very dangerous chemicals.
Fortunately, there are some natural techniques people can employ to keep these nasty insects at bay without exposing themselves to the harmful toxins that make up many commercial bug repellents. Read on to find out more about holistic ways – from dietary changes to having certain plants in the yard – that will protect against mosquitoes, ticks and other biting insects.
Insect-Repelling Plants
One of the best natural ways to repel insects and keep them away from lawns, gardens, and patios is to use plants which are known to have odors that keep insects at bay. Putting citronella plants in pots around the patio, deck or porch will allow everyone to enjoy the outdoors without worrying about being attacked by swarms of mosquitoes – most insects seem to really hate the smell! Other plants that can be used on porches or out in the garden include annuals like marigolds and perennials like catnip and lemon balm, all of which are very aromatic. The catnip and lemon balm will come back year after year if planted outside, which makes things even easier since they will not have to be purchased each growing season.
Essential Oils
Another natural way to keep bugs away is to use a topical application of essential oils instead of a commercial insect repellent. The potent oils contain aromatic compounds that are repellent to insects but at the same time safe for human use. Be aware, however, that it is not a good idea to use pure essential oils as a topical treatment, as they are incredibly strong and can irritate the skin: the best way is to dilute them in what is called a carrier oil – like almond oil – or to add them to lotions or sprays. Some of the best essential oils for this purpose are eucalyptus or lemon eucalyptus, peppermint and rose geranium, which is especially effective against ticks.
Dietary Changes
Some people just seem to attract more bugs than others and this is often because the scent of their bodies is just more attractive to insects. Pregnant women, for instance, seem to attract insects, likely because of the hormonal changes in their bodies producing a different sort of smell. However, some dietary changes can alter the body’s scent and make it less attractive to mosquitoes and the like. Adding more Vitamin B1 and/or garlic to the diet are two ways to change the body’s scent and make it less alluring to pests!
These, then, are three simple ways to repel insects naturally without having to come into contact with commercial bug-repelling lotions and sprays that are quite toxic and not at all good for the body. The techniques above, on the other hand, offer the possibility of a natural pest-free summer!
Sources: naturallivingideas.com, motherearthnews.com, onegoodthingbyjillee.com
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