Lifestyle

Try Natural Mosquito Repellents: No DEET

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Tony Maples Photography

 

No one likes slapping at mosquitoes or having to remove a tick that has invaded their body. There are numerous mosquito repellents that can be purchased, but their effectiveness is questionable and if they contain DEET, then there are possible, serious side effects that have to be considered. Also, do not put any product containing DEET on children under 6 years of age or on any open wound on your skin. A mixture of Lemon eucalyptus oil is as effective as DEET.

Mosquito Repellents

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The Environmental Health Association posted this warning about DEET:

DEET is a registered pesticide. DEET is short for N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide (also known as N,N-diethyl-3-methylbenzamide). It is a member of the toluene chemical family. Toluene is an organic solvent used in rubber and plastic cements and paint removers. DEET is absorbed through the skin and passes into the blood. The Medical Sciences Bulletin, published by Pharmaceutical Information Associates Ltd. reports, “Up to 56% of DEET applied topically penetrates intact human skin and 17% is absorbed into the bloodstream.” Blood concentrations of about 3 mg per litre have been reported several hours after DEET repellent was applied to skin in the prescribed fashion. DEET is also absorbed by the gut. The most serious concerns about DEET are its effects on the central nervous system.

Mosquito Repellent

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Lemon eucalyptus oil is non-toxic and safe. Mix a tablespoon of Lemon-Eucalyptus essential oil and a teaspoon of vanilla with four ounces of cooking oil or witch hazel (your preference), pour into a spray bottle, shaking well before each application. The vanilla is only to make it smell sweet. You don’t have to add that if you don’t like it. Re-apply your natural mosquito repellents in about 6 hours.

The CDC confirms that lemon eucalyptus is as effective as DEET.

Mosquito Repellent

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In the list of natural mosquito repellents is a garlic juice concentrate which can be mixed with water and cooking oil, such as Canola, then, lightly sprayed around your yard. The smell of this, very effective, garlic spray dissipates quickly to humans, but is very odorous to mosquitoes, gnats, ticks, fire ants and fleas. The oil kills the larvae in any standing water, while the scent of garlic repels these pests.  It is safe for bees, butterflies, fish, birds, and pets and lasts for several weeks before you need to spray again. If you cannot find this garlic concentrate at your local outlets, it can be purchased online under the name of Mosquito Barrier. Follow mixing directions on container.

Mosquito Repellent

For the gardeners, Mosquito Barrier claims to be effective at repelling armadillos, deer, field mice, and geese.  A very light swipe over your dogs back helps keep ticks and fleas off them.

Don’t forget that another effective mosquito repellent is a breeze. So, get out in your yard, hook up a fan, and enjoy quiet evenings on your patio forgetting about pesky biting insects.